These are the most unreliable foreign cars, experts say.
When shopping for a new vehicle, it’s easy to be tempted toward popular foreign brands known for their reputations for value, style, luxury, and performance. However, experts advise using caution with certain models that have developed infamous track records.
While a badge cachet or flashy exterior may turn heads, it’s wise to look under the hood, do some research on reliability reports, and see what experts have to say before making a purchase.
Prospective buyers should steer clear of the following unreliable foreign cars that have been repeatedly criticized by owners and industry experts alike. From exorbitant maintenance costs to transmission issues, these pairs of weeks come with some heavy baggage that outweighs any superficial appeal.
This being said, these unreliable foreign cars should be off-table! Make sure you read this article before signing on the dotted line.
1. Volvo XC40
Sweden-based Volvo ranked No. 11 on a recent list of the 15 most unreliable car brands of 2023, having a reliability rating of 45 out of 100, Consumer Reports data show. Although the brand has a good reputation for safety, not all models are reliable.
According to experts, the average yearly maintenance costs are $769 across all Volvo models, and the estimated maintenance costs during the first decade are $13,513.
They also point out that the climate system seems to be a common issue for the brand, as is the electrical system. More specifically, the 2023 XC40 was listed among the most unreliable foreign cars to buy.
2. Nissan Pathfinder
This midsize SUV may have a bold design that some people like, but the car has faced criticism for transmission issues, especially with the continuously variable transmission (CVT). Moreover, owners have reported overheating, the need for expensive replacements or repairs, and a lack of durability.
Automotive expert Er. Ankit Dhadwal, CEO and founder of Mount Shine, says that many owners had trouble with their overheated CVTs, complaining that they weren’t very durable. He also agrees that this is the type of vehicle that requires expensive and frequent replacements or maintenance.
Overall, the Nissan Pathfinder is one of the most unreliable foreign cars you should skip when buying a vehicle.
3. BMW 520i
The BMW 5 Series is a staple in the luxury car segment, but not every 5 Series is a ticket to a sublime ownership experience. The BMW 5301 models were included in multiple lists of the very worst of the brand’s cars due to some of the worst BMW engines ever, experts say.
Regarding specific models, they cite the BMW 5201, whose engine is prone to timing-chain problems that damage the oil pump. This can eventually result in disastrous engine failure, making the BMW 520i one of the most unreliable foreign cars. The model also has fuel injector issues and oil pressure problems that can lead to engine seizing.
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4. Toyota C-HR
Subcompact SUVs are often great choices for daily driving in crowded urban areas. At first sight, the Toyota C-HR seems to deliver many advantages in this vehicle segment. But, according to expert evaluations, the model is actually one of the most unreliable foreign cars and one of the poorest options among subcompact SUVs available right now on the market.
Automotive experts explain that the C-HR stands out as one of the worst subcompact SUVs currently available. They also point out that, if you set aside the car’s somewhat interesting design and focus only on its features, it becomes clear that the C-HR lacks any distinct advantages. Interior space, dynamics, build quality, comfort, and handling all fall short.
Read on to discover other unreliable foreign cars!
5. Audi A6
This German car brand has taken hits for some of its models, but experts specifically cite the Audi A6’s fourth-generation C7 series as the troublesome child of the A6 family. In fact, the vehicle is considered one of the most unreliable foreign cars available on the market.
There are particular issues with the models built between 2012 and 2015. Moreover, various owners and reliability reports gave A6 models just 1 out of 5 stars, mainly because of steering issues, brake squealing problems, and engine troubles across the range.
Consumers have also reported serpentine belt and fuel pressure regulator failures, along with excessive oil consumption.
6. Audi Q5 55 TFSI e
Experts say this plug-in hybrid SUV is unnecessarily expensive and complex compared to the gas-only version of the Q5. They point out that the most affordable version right now of the Q5 55 TFSI e starts at about $57,000, which is around $11,000 more than an alternative with the same four-cylinder engine that delivers similar performance without the added complexity.
When you pair it with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, it becomes a poor option among vehicles with similar features. Furthermore, when the hybrid’s battery depletes, recharging isn’t a fast and efficient process.
7. Mercedes-Benz GLE
Here is another German car brand whose models have drawn criticism throughout the years. Some automotive experts from the US specifically consider the GLE model as one of the most unreliable foreign cars of 2023, with a 24 out of 100 predicted reliability rating.
The annual maintenance costs are $908 on average, and the estimated maintenance cost during the first ten years is about $15,900. The GLE, which is one of the brand’s most popular offerings, also scored the lowest of all Mercedes models on many expert evaluations. It also came among the most unreliable foreign cars across all segments and automakers for 2023.
8. Honda Civic (2012)
Another model year you should avoid when looking to buy a car is the 2012 Honda Civic. According to experts, the 2012 Civic is known for developing issues with brake systems and interior accessories. They also point out the fact that quite a few owners have also complained about premature tire wear.
Furthermore, issues with the model’s interior trim cracking or peeling early in the vehicle’s life are frequently reported. As one of the most unreliable foreign cars, this Civic model has gained notoriety for multiple defects.
This being said, consumers are advised to look at other options in the car market because the 2012 Civic’s issues outweigh its positive features for most buyers.
9. Fiat 500
While beloved for its style, the Fiat 500 has been plagued by electrical problems, including issues with lighting, infotainment, and power windows. Transmission complaints and doubts regarding long-term durability are also common.
Car experts note that electrical components are a frequent source of complaints. They also pointed out that some owners reported issues with bad clutch plates, faulty fuel injector seats, lighting, infotainment systems, and power windows, which may be aggravating and expensive to remedy.
In a nutshell, prospective buyers should add this one to the list of unreliable foreign cars.
10. Mitsubishi Mirage
This budget subcompact is known for poor performance, choppy ride quality, a noisy cabin, and a lack of features compared to the competition. Acceleration is also notably underpowered.
According to experts, highway passing and merging maneuvers may feel uneasy due to the engine’s lack of power. The model’s poor performance is one of its biggest criticisms, also because it has issues with its brakes. Furthermore, the airbags don’t deploy as expected.
Make sure you steer clear of this one too if you’re looking to buy a vehicle.
If you liked our article on unreliable foreign cars, you may also want to read 9 Used Cars You Should Stay Away from in 2024.
