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15 Secondhand SUVs That Aren’t Worth Your Money

Jimmy Adell June 11, 2025

SUVs have surged in popularity over the past decade, becoming a staple in driveways and dealerships everywhere. Their spacious interiors, rugged looks, and promise of versatility attract countless buyers, especially in the booming used car market.
However, not all pre-owned SUVs deliver the reliability and value shoppers expect. Some models are notorious for mechanical headaches, high maintenance costs, or rapid depreciation.
Before you sign on the dotted line, it’s crucial to know which secondhand SUVs could end up draining your wallet instead of serving you well.

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1. Jeep Grand Cherokee (2011-2014)

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Image source: Wikimedia Commons

The Jeep Grand Cherokee from 2011-2014 stands out for all the wrong reasons in the used SUV market. Chronic transmission failures and persistent electrical gremlins have plagued these model years, leading to frequent, costly repairs.
Consumer Reports consistently ranks these Grand Cherokees low in reliability, warning buyers of inflated ownership costs.
If you’re considering a used Grand Cherokee, think twice—its alluring design is often overshadowed by headaches under the hood.

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2. Ford Explorer (2013-2017)

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Image source: Wikimedia Commons

The 2013-2017 Ford Explorer may look appealing, but a closer inspection reveals a troubling reputation.
CarComplaints and NHTSA data highlight frequent engine and transmission issues, particularly with the turbocharged EcoBoost engines, which are prone to early failures and expensive repairs.
Owners often report sudden breakdowns and persistent drivability problems, making these model years a risky bet for value-minded SUV buyers.

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3. Nissan Pathfinder (2013-2016)

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Image source: Wikimedia Commons

The 2013-2016 Nissan Pathfinder is notorious for its CVT transmission failures, a major headache for used SUV buyers.
According to U.S. News and World Report, owners frequently complain about jerky shifting, loss of power, and costly transmission replacements.
These widespread issues can turn what seems like a budget-friendly purchase into an expensive ordeal—making this Pathfinder generation one to avoid on the secondhand market.

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4. GMC Acadia (2007-2014)

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Image source: Wikimedia Commons

The 2007-2014 GMC Acadia may boast family-friendly space, but it’s troubled by serious timing chain failures and unreliable electrical systems.
J.D. Power reliability scores for these years are mediocre at best, and owner reports highlight frequent engine warning lights, stalling, and costly engine repairs.
These persistent problems make the Acadia a risky buy for anyone seeking peace of mind in a used SUV.

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5. Dodge Journey (2009-2018)

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Image source: Wikimedia Commons

The Dodge Journey from 2009 to 2018 is a frequent contender on lists of least reliable SUVs.
Edmunds reviews cite constant brake problems, engine troubles, and a reputation for poor build quality.
Combined with its low resale value, owning a used Journey often means dealing with unexpected repairs and disappointing long-term costs.
This is one SUV bargain hunters should approach with caution.

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6. Land Rover Discovery Sport (2015-2018)

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Image source: Wikimedia Commons

The 2015-2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport dazzles with luxury, but falls short in reliability and cost of ownership.
What Car? and RepairPal both highlight frequent mechanical failures, from turbocharger issues to electrical malfunctions.
Expensive repairs and parts mean maintenance bills quickly add up, turning this SUV into a financial burden for many secondhand buyers.

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7. Chevrolet Equinox (2010-2017)

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Image source: Wikimedia Commons

The 2010-2017 Chevrolet Equinox is often plagued by excessive oil consumption and persistent engine troubles.
Consumer Reports notes that many owners have faced low oil pressure warnings, engine stalling, and even complete engine failure.
Repair bills for these issues add up fast, making this Equinox generation a risky and potentially costly pick for used SUV shoppers.

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8. BMW X5 (2011-2013)

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Image source: Wikimedia Commons

The 2011-2013 BMW X5 tempts with luxury but comes with significant drawbacks for used buyers.
RepairPal highlights common air suspension failures and expensive engine issues that can quickly drain your budget.
BMW parts and labor costs are notoriously high, so even routine repairs can lead to financial headaches.
For those seeking dependable performance, this X5 generation is often more trouble than it’s worth.

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9. Jeep Patriot (2007-2017)

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The Jeep Patriot (2007-2017) may seem affordable, but it’s hampered by frequent transmission failures and pervasive rust problems.
According to IIHS and NHTSA data, this SUV also suffers from subpar safety ratings compared to its rivals.
These reliability and safety concerns make the Patriot a questionable choice for anyone seeking a worry-free, long-term used SUV.

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10. Volkswagen Tiguan (2009-2017)

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Image source: Wikimedia Commons

The 2009-2017 Volkswagen Tiguan is infamous for turbocharger problems and timing chain failures that can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
RepairPal and numerous technical service bulletins warn of costly repairs and frequent part replacements for these models.
If you’re considering a used Tiguan, be prepared for the possibility of major mechanical expenses that may outweigh any initial savings.

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11. Acura MDX (2010-2013)

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The 2010-2013 Acura MDX can be a costly gamble for used SUV shoppers.
U.S. News rankings point to frequent transmission failures and troublesome steering system issues that undermine its reputation for reliability.
High maintenance and repair costs for this generation further erode its value, making it a risky pick for buyers looking for dependable, affordable transportation.

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12. Chevrolet Traverse (2009-2015)

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Image source: Wikimedia Commons

The 2009-2015 Chevrolet Traverse has developed a reputation for engine and transmission failures, particularly as mileage climbs.
Both CarComplaints and Consumer Reports highlight issues like engine stalling, transmission slipping, and frequent repairs in higher-mileage units.
These recurring problems can result in steep maintenance bills, making this Traverse generation a questionable investment for used SUV shoppers.

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13. Mercedes-Benz GL-Class (2007-2012)

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Image source: Wikimedia Commons

The 2007-2012 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class often lures buyers with luxury, but it’s notorious for expensive air suspension failures and persistent electrical problems.
Both Edmunds and RepairPal warn that repairs and parts for these issues can be staggering.
High maintenance costs make this SUV a risky—and often regrettable—purchase on the secondhand market.

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14. Kia Sorento (2011-2014)

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Image source: Wikimedia Commons

The 2011-2014 Kia Sorento has been plagued by engine failures that can strike without warning, leaving owners with hefty repair bills.
NHTSA recall records and various owner forums document recurring issues like seized engines and sudden stalling.
Although Kia issued several recalls, many buyers report lingering reliability concerns, making these model years a questionable choice for anyone seeking peace of mind in a used SUV.

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15. Mitsubishi Outlander (2007-2013)

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Image source: Wikimedia Commons

The 2007-2013 Mitsubishi Outlander struggles with weak CVT transmissions that are notorious for early failure and high replacement costs.
According to Kelley Blue Book, these issues, combined with a consistently poor resale value, make the Outlander a less-than-ideal used SUV option.
Buyers may be drawn to its affordability, but ongoing reliability concerns and expensive repairs can quickly erase any initial savings.

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Conclusion

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Choosing a used SUV can be tempting, but the models listed above often come with hidden risks that outweigh any upfront savings.
From costly engine and transmission failures to expensive repairs and poor resale values, these secondhand SUVs can quickly become money pits.

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Disclaimer

Disclaimer
A bold legal notice appears on a white page, clearly stating a disclaimer about professional advice and liability. | Image source: Image by Unknown (Unknown) on Wikimedia Commons

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
Always conduct your own research and consult trusted sources before making any major purchase decisions.

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