7Used Cars to Avoid

By Matthew de Paula of MSN Autos

2009 - 2011 Audi Q5The Audi Q5 has been a hit since it debuted in 2009. This versatile little crossover looks and drives great. But Consumer Reports data, which come from customer surveys, show that owners have had problems with the engine cooling system, power equipment, audio system and squeaks and rattles, among other things. If you buy a used Q5, consider one that is certified pre-owned and comes with a warranty.

2007 - 2010 BMW 330i / 335i The BMW 3-Series commands respect. It is the gold standard for performance sedans. Too bad the 330i and 335i models, which are in the sweet spot of the 3-Series range, have proved so unreliable. Serious problem areas include the fuel system, major and minor engine components, body hardware and audio system. The 2012 BMW 3-Series is all-new.



Chrysler Town & Country / Dodge Grand Caravan The Chrysler Town & Country and its corporate twin, the Grand Caravan, are American mainstays. Dodge has sold millions of them, despite their tendency to break down. It doesn't matter what model year, their reliability is terrible across the board, according to Consumer Reports. And it's not just minor things; the transmission, engine components, suspension, brakes and electrical and fuel systems are all problematic.

2009 - 2010 Jaguar XF Jaguar is the most improved brand in J.D. Power & Associates 2012 Initial Quality Study, having leaped from 20th place last year up to second. The sexy, luxurious and sporty XF is a huge improvement over the S-Type it replaced in 2009. If only it were reliable. Its transmission, drive system and electrical system are among the major components prone to failure.

Jeep Grand Cherokee The Jeep Grand Cherokee is rugged and can go practically anywhere. At odds with this seemingly indestructible nature is a track record for failure. Both the V6 and V8 models are unreliable, though recent V6 versions have fared somewhat better. Problem spots include the cooling system, climate control system, drive components, brakes, power equipment, body hardware and minor engine parts The jury is out on whether a comprehensive redesign for 2011 affected reliability.

2002, 2006, 2007, 2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class It seems incongruous that a high-priced luxury car could be unreliable, but that's certainly the case with Mercedes' midsize crossover. The 2006 and 2007 models are particularly bad, according to Consumer Reports. They suffer from major engine problems, faulty electrical systems, broken body hardware, transmission woes and a host of other issues.

MINI Cooper S & Cooper Clubman SThe MINI Cooper S and the slightly larger Clubman S have a more potent engine than their respective base versions. More power means more problems. Consequently, the S engines — turbocharged or supercharged, depending on the year — are seriously problematic. In addition, transmissions, fuel systems and body parts that squeak, rattle and break will also upset owners.