You love cars that turn heads, but some of the coolest choices hide expensive headaches. This article shows which five stylish cars Doug DeMuro calls too unreliable to buy and explains why they may cost you more time and money than they’re worth.
Keep this as your quick guide to balancing passion with practicality. You’ll get clear reasons to think twice before chasing a show-stopping car and know what maintenance risks to watch for.
E60 BMW M5 – cool but too complex and pricey to maintain
You’ll love the V10 soundtrack and raw feel, but that engine and the SMG/SMG-like gearbox add layers of complexity. Repairs and parts for the E60 climb fast, especially as electronics and hydraulic systems age.
If you buy one, expect frequent maintenance bills and occasional expensive failures. Doug DeMuro highlighted those reliability headaches and recommends caution before committing to ownership.
Porsche 914 – stylish but unreliable for daily driving
You’ll love the 914’s mid-engine looks and quirky charm, but it’s a car that asks for more attention than a daily driver should. Parts can be scarce and electrical gremlins pop up as these cars age, so expect surprise repairs.
If you want a weekend toy, it’s fun and unique. If you need dependable commuting, the 914 often costs more time and money than it’s worth.
Volvo XC90 (2026 model) – old design with reliability concerns
You’ll notice the 2026 XC90 keeps a familiar, mature design that some call dated compared with flashier rivals.
That conservative look can feel reassuring, but Doug DeMuro and others have flagged reliability quirks that matter over time.
You should weigh crash‑worthy safety and a composed ride against reports of complex electronics and pricey maintenance.
If you prefer low‑hassle ownership, the XC90’s strengths may not offset potential reliability headaches for your daily driver.
Learn more about the model’s features and measurements at Volvo Cars Cool Springs.
Jaguar XJ – gorgeous ride but known for frequent issues
You’ll love the XJ’s living-room comfort and elegant lines that turn heads wherever you park.
Ownership can feel expensive; electrical gremlins, air suspension failures, and cooling-system issues crop up on many examples.
If you want one, budget for thorough pre-purchase checks and expect repairs beyond routine maintenance.
Doug DeMuro highlights their appeal but warns they’re often too unreliable for daily driving, especially newer X351s with complex electronics.
Consider a well-documented example and a trusted independent specialist before you buy.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (older models) – luxury with high repair costs
You’ll love the plush ride and tech, but older S‑Classes eat money when they break.
Complex air suspension, aging electronics, and twin‑turbo engines mean repair bills climb fast.
If you value peace of mind, budget heavily for maintenance or skip these vintage luxuries entirely.
Consider buying a full service history and a pre‑purchase inspection if you still want one.
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