An unreliable car is never what you want to buy. Unreliable cars are more likely to break down or incur repair costs due to broken parts. Car repair costs can be high, and they usually come at the worst of times but how do you know cars are unreliable? By compiling data from Honest John’s Satisfaction Index and Car Wow’s Reliability Index, we’ve come up with the most unreliable cars you can buy and which models to avoid.
1. Range Rover Sport.
You may be surprised such a big, luxurious car is so unreliable, but the Range Rover Sport does come with many issues. Range Rover Sport drivers report a high number of problems relating to different aspects of the vehicle. Engine problems are common and they can be costly too. whilst the Range Rover Sport is a capable and stylish premium car, it can be a good idea to take out an extended warranty to help protect you in the long run.
2. BMW i8.
The BMW i8 is a highly capable plug-in hybrid car but it’s also one of the most unreliable cars you can buy! The BMW i8 is sleek and futuristic but there have been complaints of electrical system issues. Average repair costs will set you back around £2,000 so it’s a hefty job. The BMW i8 is a great car but with a high price tag and some reliability issues, there are better PHEV cars on the market.
3. Tesla Model S.
It’s not often you see many bad reviews about Tesla, we’ve even named the Model S as one of our best cars for camping due to its space and efficiency. However, the Tesla Model S actually comes with a number of reliability issues. It makes our list of the top 10 most unreliable cars because there are reports of electrical issues, persistent wheel alignment problems and leaking cooling pumps. Teslas are premium cars which come with high purchase prices and also expensive repair costs.
4. Audi A7.
The Audi A7 is a powerful head-turner but unfortunately, it lacks reliability. Most reported issues are with the engine, which we all know is an expensive component to repair. Audi doesn’t have the best track record for reliability and you’ll often find them to be some of the most unreliable cars you can buy. The Audi A7 does come with a generous amount of standard equipment and a high-quality interior but you may be forking out when it comes to repair costs.
5. SEAT Leon.
In the first year of ownership, drivers reported a number of SEAT Leon issues. The SEAT Leon is highly capable though and it’s one of the best cars for towing. If you’re considering buying a SEAT Leon, there are many other unreliable cars on our list which have more issues but the Leon still has a few pain points. The diesel version has 4x as many faults as the petrol one which can be worth keeping in mind when shopping around.
6. BMW M3.
What’s worse than one unreliable BMW? Two unreliable BMWs! The BMW M3 is the second car to feature on our list and it’s got a patchy reliability history. The most common problem in the latest version is a driveshaft failure. This can be costly but also can be avoided by keeping your car in good condition and having regular car servicing performed. The BMW is a good car though and it provides sports car performance but with the practicality of an estate car.
7. Skoda Octavia.
The Skoda Octavia is one of the more reliable cars you can buy but drivers still report a few issues that can be costly. The one thing that does save the Skoda Octavia is the three-year, 60,000-mile warranty that Skoda provides. Buying a Skoda from new will give you a FREE 3-year warranty but buying a used Skoda may not have these benefits. There were several recalls for models after 2020 which can include a faulty fuse, engine cover fault and E-Call service faults. Put that aside and it’s still one of the best used cars you can buy under £10k and is great value for money!
8. Nissan Qashqai.
The Nissan Qashqai has been well-loved in the UK for many years. It’s a great family car and perfect for commuting. However, the latest version of the Nissan Qashqai is one of the most unreliable cars you can buy. Its reliability history is very hit-and-miss and some used models can come with large faults such as battery issues and engine problems. If you’re looking for a used Qashqai, please don’t hesitate to hunt around for ones with a full-service history and test all the electric while out on a test drive.
9. Volvo V40.
The Volvo 40 is a premium hatchback and sits in the same class as the BMW 1 and Audi A3. It’s a popular choice for drivers who want a decent amount of space but an economical engine. The only thing that really holds the Volvo V40 back is its reputation for unreliability. It’s not likely to conk out whilst driving but there are reported issues with high servicing costs, airbag issues and starting problems.
10. Mercedes-Benz GLC.
As a stylish and capable family SUV, the Mercedes GLC should be on your list of cars to buy. However, it lacks the reliability you need from a family car. Common issues with The Mercedes-Benz GLC include engine failure, faulty sensors and electrical problems. Mercedes-Benz is a premium brand which means the cost to replace the parts can also be higher. If you’re looking for a more affordable and reliable family SUV, try the Kia Sportage or Kia EV6.
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