We all love a bargain, but when it comes to buying cars, a price tag that sounds too good to be true probably isn’t. Not all inexpensive cars are truly affordable in the long run. You have to factor in costly repairs, poor reliability, or sky-high insurance rates behind their low price tags. Expensive parts, poor gas mileage, and frequent breakdowns can quickly drain your wallet.
These cars may look like a steal but could surprise you with unexpected expenses down the road.
BMW 7 Series
Surely you can’t go wrong with BMW’s quality? Heavy depreciation on the luxury BMW 7 makes it seem like a real bargain, but that low price isn’t the end of your spending. Its advanced features and high-end technology come with sky-high repair bills when something goes wrong.
The complexity of the electronics alone can make repairs time-consuming and expensive. Owning a used 7 Series might feel more like a burden than a bargain.
Mini Cooper
Small car doesn’t mean you can expect low bills. The compact Mini Cooper charms buyers with its fun driving experience, but maintenance can be a headache. Common issues with the engine and transmission mean frequent trips to the shop, and those quirky parts don’t come cheap.
Even routine services can cost more than you’d expect for a small car. The price tag may seem reasonable, but repairs and upkeep can soon outweigh the savings.
Chrysler PT Cruiser
Today’s cars are complicated and expensive to fix when they go wrong. The PT Cruiser stands out with its retro-inspired design, but this Chrysler has a reputation for unreliability and often needs costly repairs. Electrical problems, transmission failures, and poor-quality components make it a gamble for budget-conscious buyers.
Volkswagen Passat
Volkswagen’s famed German engineering means you might expect the affordable Passat to be bulletproof when it comes to quality, but beware of the hidden costs. Its turbocharged engines and intricate systems tend to lead to expensive repairs. The price of replacement parts alone can surprise even seasoned owners.
Dodge Caliber
Here’s an American car that’s marketed as a practical compact, so it’s a win-win, right? Actually, it’s a bit of a gamble. The Dodge Caliber’s low price makes it tempting for budget shoppers, but its reputation for reliability issues is bad news. Problems with the suspension, transmission, and interior quality are all too common.
Fiat 500
The Fiat 500 looks too cute and cuddly to harm your bank damage, but don’t be fooled: this little car comes with a reputation for big repair bills. ’Owners often report reliability issues with the engine, transmission, and electrical systems. In addition, the cost of imported parts and the Fiat 500 quickly become less of a bargain.
Jaguar X-Type
It’s a classic tale of beauty and the beast. Jaguar’s luxury cars are invariably beautiful, but their reliability can be beastly. The Jaguar X-Type’s low resale price might make it look like a luxury steal, but it’s often more trouble than it’s worth.
Expensive repairs are often frequent, and new parts aren’t just pricey – they’re often hard to find. Add in the specialized labor needed for maintenance, and you’ve got a car that can drain your savings.
Chevrolet Aveo
Bargain basement prices make the Chevrolet Aveo seem like an unbeatable deal, but its quality doesn’t hold up. Notorious for some cheaply-made components, this subcompact often faces problems with the engine, transmission, and suspension. Repairs might not break the bank individually, but the frequency of issues can be overwhelming.
Land Rover Freelander
Land Rover’s Freelander promises rugged off-road capability, but owning one can be a costly experience. Frequent mechanical issues and expensive repairs make this SUV less appealing. Problems with the drivetrain, electronics, and cooling system are common, and finding parts can be a challenge for a British vehicle that went out of production several years ago.
Mitsubishi Eclipse
A sporty styling and low price make the Mitsubishi Eclipse a desirable choice, but its reliability is too often poor. Issues with the engine, transmission, and suspension can lead to expensive repairs that will wipe out any money you saved on the initial purchase. Buyers looking for long-term value should look elsewhere.
Smart Fortwo
The Smart Fortwo’s tiny size and affordable price might seem like a winning combination, but its ownership costs can be surprising. Repairs on their compact yet complex systems often require specialized labor, driving up costs. Its reliability can also be spotty, with issues cropping up more often than expected. While it’s great for zipping around the city, owning a Fortwo may not be as budget-friendly as it looks.
Audi A4
Even a trusted luxury brand like Audi can be a suspect in the secondhand market. The A4 is no stranger to high maintenance costs. Issues with the engine, electrical systems, and turbochargers are common, and fixing them isn’t cheap. Regular servicing for this premium sedan tends to be pricier than you might expect. A used A4 can be a financial drain.
Hyundai Tiburon
It’s easy to find a used Tiburon with a tempting price sticker on its windshield, but there are enough reliability concerns to give you doubts. Owners report problems with the suspension, clutch, and engine, which can lead to costly repairs.
Its sporty styling suggests a fun and affordable coupe, but hidden expenses could be lurking down the line.
Pontiac G6
When you spot the low resale values of Pontiac’s G6, you’re probably thinking, “Bargain!” when you should be wondering, “Why?”. They’re cheap because this model has a poor reliability record. Problem areas include the steering, transmission, and electrical systems – all of which can lead to expensive fixes. Finding parts can add another layer of hassle.
Saab 9-3
If you’re looking for something different, the Saab 9-3 stands out with its quirky design and affordable price, but owning one can be a challenge. Dogged by reliability issues, this car often requires expensive repairs. However, parts can be hard to find because the brand no longer exists.