When it comes to owning a car, some models can turn routine repairs into a real headache. Mechanics often see firsthand which vehicles come with hidden maintenance costs, tricky parts, and ongoing reliability issues that can make your wallet and patience take a hit.

If you want to avoid frequent trips to the shop and costly repairs, it helps to know which cars mechanics themselves label as nightmares to fix. Understanding these warning signs upfront can save you time, money, and frustration down the road.

Ford Explorer (2011-2019)

If you’re thinking about a Ford Explorer from 2011 to 2019, be ready for some headaches. These models often come with tricky repairs that can really test your patience and wallet.

Common issues include power steering failures and electrical problems. Mechanics generally find these models frustrating because even small fixes turn into major jobs.

Before you buy, consider how much time and money you’re willing to spend on maintenance. Not all Explorers are bad, but these years often cause more trouble than they’re worth.

Nissan Altima (2013-2016)

If you’re considering a Nissan Altima from 2013 to 2016, be ready for some common headaches. These models often struggle with CVT transmission issues that can lead to costly repairs.

Many owners report repeated problems, sometimes requiring multiple visits to the mechanic. The 2013 model, in particular, has a reputation for being the least reliable in recent years.

You might find a decent deal on these years, but keep in mind the potential for ongoing maintenance troubles.

Volvo XC90 (2016-2020)

If you own a 2016 to 2020 Volvo XC90, be ready for some headaches. The 2016 model brought a lot of tech upgrades, but with that came issues like infotainment glitches and air suspension troubles that can get pricey to fix.

Engine complaints also popped up around 2016 and 2017, making those years less reliable. Later models improved, but you might still face some electrical faults. Keeping up with maintenance helps, but repairs can be complicated and costly.

BMW 7 Series (various years)

If you’re thinking about a BMW 7 Series, be careful which year you pick. Models from 2002 to 2012 often come with pricey repairs and ongoing engine headaches.

Some years, like 2009 and 2011, have turbocharger problems that can hit your wallet hard. These cars pack a lot of tech, but fixing that tech isn’t cheap or quick.

Expect expensive maintenance and frequent trips to the mechanic if you own one from those trouble-prone years.

Volkswagen Passat (2012-2018)

If you own a Passat from 2012 to 2018, be ready for some headaches. These models often deal with engine troubles like misfires and fuel injector issues, which can hit your wallet hard.

2012 and some years around it saw recalls and complaints about costly repairs. Even the 2017 and 2018 models, which improved reliability a bit, still come with occasional rough idle or electrical problems.

You’ll want to keep up with maintenance and watch for warning signs to avoid bigger repairs down the road.

Range Rover Sport (2014-2017)

If you own a Range Rover Sport from 2014 to 2017, be ready for some common headaches. The air suspension system during these years often fails, leading to costly repairs. Water leaks into the cabin have also been a frequent complaint, soaking the interior.

Electronics and interior components can get damaged over time because of these leaks. Mechanics often find these issues tricky and expensive to fix, so preparing for potential downtime and bills is smart.

Audi A6 (2012-2018)

If you own an Audi A6 from 2012 to 2018, be ready for some headaches. This generation is known for engine troubles that often lead to multiple repairs. Mechanics frequently see repeated visits for the same issues.

You might find parts failing sooner than expected, which drives repair costs up. It’s a sleek car, but those benefits come with reliability concerns you should keep in mind before buying or fixing one.

Jeep Grand Cherokee (2011-2015)

If you’re looking at a Jeep Grand Cherokee from 2011 to 2015, be ready for potential headaches. These models often suffer from electrical issues linked to the TIPM, which can cause everything from engine stalling to transmission problems.

You might also face spontaneous headrest deployments—definitely not something you want while driving. Repair costs can add up quickly, so it’s worth thinking twice before buying one from these years. Regular maintenance helps, but some problems are just part of the package here.