10 Notoriously Unreliable Used SUVs Under $30K

When you need a vehicle that offers safety at an affordable price, it makes sense to explore the used SUV market. You'll likely find plenty of great options. On the other hand, there's a good chance you'll run into models you wouldn't want to bring home at any price. In fact, you could consider a few to be downright risky investments. 

Check out our list of 10 notoriously unreliable SUVs under $ 30,000 so you can avoid making a costly mistake.

Average Price: $18,839

The 2023 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is known for its comfortable ride and standard all-wheel drive. Those features seem great until you don't press the brake hard enough. Mitsubishi's dynamic brake support failed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) test, which means you'd better slam on the brakes hard if you spot trouble ahead.

The SUV has also received complaints about its airbags, electrical system, and exterior lighting.

Average Price: $25,324

The 2022 Audi Q5 is one of Kelley Blue Book's highest-rated luxury SUVs. So, why shouldn't you buy one? Two reasons. First, the 2022 model is the current generation's fifth year of production, so the technology is starting to show its age.

Second, Audi had to recall 89,000 of the SUVs for a fire risk. Owners won't receive notification letters until July, so any 2022 Audi Q5 is considered a risk.

Average Price: $16,029

The 2017 Ford Lincoln Navigator's ability to tow up to 9,000 pounds makes it an attractive option for many drivers. Unfortunately, Ford Motor Company issued a recall in 2022 because of an interior fire due to a fault blower motor.

The replacement parts weren't available, but the company said they'd have the necessary parts in 2023. If you buy a Navigator, ask the seller for evidence that they got the repairs.

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Average Price: $19,674

When you think of Dodge, you probably envision popular vehicles with powerful V8 engines that consume a significant amount of fuel. The 2023 Hornet bucked that trend by introducing the company's first plug-in-hybrid subcompact SUV.

The NHTSA has issued four recalls for the 2023 model, twice for problems with the vehicle's backover prevention system. More reasons to avoid the Hornet? It has a cramped rear seat and performs poorly in snow.

Average Price: $13,700

Ford recalled the 2022 EcoSport twice for independent problems. In 2023, Ford again recalled the EcoSport because its engine oil pumps were failing, which could cause the engine to stall and the power braking assist feature to stop working.

Two years later, Ford issued yet another recall because drive shafts were disconnecting, causing vehicles to roll unexpectedly. In addition, drivers complain that the 2022 EcoSport has an outdated infotainment system and unimpressive fuel economy.

Average Price: $15,581

With three recalls and 23 complaints, it's probably best to avoid the 2021 Nissan Rogue Sport. According to one recall notice, the SUV could suddenly shut off while driving. To make the problem even worse, airbags weren't deploying during crashes. Adding to those issues, seat belt retractors might not work as intended, which increases the risk of injury during a crash.

Average Price: $23,708

Kia is a popular brand because the company tends to make affordable vehicles that hold up pretty well. The 2023 Sorento has a low price tag, but it doesn't meet performance expectations. NHTSA has received 84 complaints about this SUV and there were two recalls issued on it.

Reported problems range from excessive oil consumption to a powertrain that hesitates at high speeds. Right when you need it most, the 2023 Kia Sorento might put you in danger.

Average Price: $14,045

The good news is that the 2020 Dodge Journey hasn't had any recalls… yet. There are two open investigations, though. One says there's a possibility someone got trapped inside a Journey during a vehicle fire. Another is exploring whether the SUV's backup camera screens produce blurred, upside-down, or flashing images.

Consumers complain that the Journey has an aging design and lacks driver-assistance features.

Average Price: $19,375

NHTSA has received 35 complaints about the 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan. The complaints run the gamut from overheating engines to unexpected accelerations. Volkswagen has also issued a recall for rearview camera images not displaying on their screens. NHTSA warns that the Tiguan's driver door unlatched and opened during side barrier tests. It's probably best to avoid the risk with this one.

Average Price: $19,097

Chrysler has recalled the 2023 Jeep Compass for faulty rearview cameras and instrument panels. NHTSA has also received 32 complaints. One person says that a Compass came to an unexpected stop in the middle of a road. Another driver said that the Compass didn't accelerate when they stepped on the pedal, posing a considerable danger in some traffic situations.

SUVs are supposed to be safe, reliable vehicles with plenty of interior room. So naturally people notice when their vehicles fall short of those expectations. To be on the safe side for your physical and financial wellbeing, you should probably avoid any of the SUVs on this list.

On average, repairing a midsize SUV costs more than $1,700, and when combined with insurance rates on used cars, it makes sense to spend some time comparing your options before finalizing a purchase.