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It is essential to shop for a car you can enjoy driving in today’s auto market. Not only do you want an enjoyable ride, but more importantly, you want something with reliability. With how many different used cars are available, it’s important to do your research to get a reliable used car. Buying something unreliable could result in you spending much more money. Consider avoiding these models to save some money and some headaches.

2016 Lincoln MKZ

The Lincoln MKZ was a lackluster luxury sedan for quite a few years. The 2016 Lincoln MKZ is one such model to avoid. The interior isn’t anything special, and while the drive is pleasant, don’t expect the most engaging driving experience. Furthermore, the 2016 Lincoln MKZ is a part of a crowded market, and you could spend your money elsewhere for a more reliable used car.

2015 Acura RLX

a 2015 acura rlx at an auto show, luxurious looking, no reliability
A 2015 Acura RLX at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show | Raymond Boyd via Getty Images

Acura has always been an underrated luxury automaker. Many models find themselves in the good graces of journalists and drivers alike, but unfortunately, the 2015 Acura RLX is unreliable. With a less than ideal driving experience, a dated interior, and technology that feels much older, your hard-earned money should be spent on something else.

2015 Volvo XC70

a 2017 volvo xc70 driving through the woods
A 2017 Volvo XC70 Driving Through the Woods | Volvo

Shoppers looking for a capable wagon surely looked at the 2015 Volvo XC70 and thought that this wagon would be the choice. But, this particular model should be left on the dealership lot. In terms of efficiency, there are many better options. Despite the abundance of space and driver assistance technology, there are better cars available that are not as unreliable.

2017 Dodge Viper

This model may seem out of place on this list, but believe us when we say to avoid the 2017 Dodge Viper. Sure, it offers one of the most guttural and exhilarating driving experiences, but save your money with gas prices being so high. According to U.S. News and World Reports, the “instant and potent acceleration” is undoubtedly exciting, but the rough ride and cramped interior can make driving a chore.

2019 Fiat 500

a 2019 fiat 500 parked on a garage overhand, a car that is not reliable
A 2019 Fiat 500 Parked in a Garage | Stellantis

The 2019 Fiat 500 is a car that looks like a blast to drive. This pint-sized hatchback is lightweight, and the Abarth model can certainly deliver some smiles. But, the overall quality and lack of features make it an unreliable used car. The Fiat 500 had quite a few recalls during its lifespan, putting a bigger dent in its reputation.

2018 Nissan Versa

a blue 2018 nissan versa, a very unreliable used car
2018 Nissan Versa | Nissan

A 2019 Nissan Versa seems like an alright purchase for shoppers looking for an inexpensive subcompact sedan. The low starting price when new means used models can be even cheaper, but there are penalties for this low price. The overall quality is lackluster, and the minuscule 109 horsepower engine is uninspiring, especially if you need to make a quick lane change or overtake a car. Maybe you should just research a new Hyundai Accent, which is affordable, reliable, and brand new.

2015 Mitsubishi Lancer

a silver 2015 mitsubishi lancer parked overlooking a cliff
2015 Mitsubishi Lancer | Mitsubishi

The Mitsubishi Lancer nameplate indeed evokes a certain level of nostalgia thanks to the performance-focused and rally-inspired Evo line-up, but the standard models are best left alone. The 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer was an uninspiring and boring sedan near the end of its life. With a lack of modern features and technology, this sedan could be better used to save a parking spot.

2019 Mitsubishi Mirage

Drivers who want a car known for affordability have surely heard of the Mitsubishi Mirage. The 2019 Mitsubishi Mirage offers a useable interior and amazing efficiency, but the engine creates just 78 horsepower, the least among all modern cars. Furthermore, the suspension is unruly on most roads, and the interior is cramped for actual passengers, making it particularly unreliable for more adults.

Do your research and look elsewhere

If you find yourself looking at any of these eight models, you should consider shopping for something else. Sure they may have an attractive price or outstanding performance, but you could spend more money keeping them on the road in the long run. Instead, do your research and choose a reliable used car.

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