collections i SUV are two of the most popular car body styles of choice these days, and it’s no surprise. The comfort, space and versatility they offer make them the perfect choice for families, and the durability and usability even rank high with singletons looking to cruise in a relaxed way.
In any case, 4x4s have really come to define today’s society. The fact that Lamborghini already makes one in the form of the Urus, and Ferrari joins it in the Purosangue, has shown just how dependent manufacturers are on selling bigger cars to stay alive.
But while some 4x4s are known for being supremely reliable and tough as nails, like the Toyota Hilux that Jeremy Clarkson put through hell, others are frequently associated with… less pleasant qualities. SUVs and pick-ups mean more of everything than your average car, and that means there’s a lot more to go wrong. This begs the question: which 4x4s are the most unreliable?
8 Range Rover (third generation) ($13,000)
There are absolutely no surprises here. The Range Rover: synonymous with class and comfort, but also expenses and breakdowns! A decade-old Range Rover can be had for a very reasonable price these days, given that depreciation is appreciated like a rock the moment they are driven off the showroom floor. So driving a previously $80,000+ car for less than a fifth of that price seems insane.
But be careful, general maintenance is expensive enough, but the list of things that go wrong is even scarier. Suspension issues, unreliable differentials, and a host of electrical issues are among the most common problems that almost all Range Rovers face. That’s before you even get to the third generation engines, which are notorious for giving up in the most inappropriate situations.
7 Dodge Ram 1500 (fourth generation) ($16,000)
The modern Ram pickup is one of the best money can buy, but it’s easy to forget that there was a time when it wasn’t as good. Specifically, we are referring to the fourth generation model. They’re in a decent price range these days, with tidy 2015 examples costing around $16,000, but be prepared to spend on maintenance.
The pick-up was known for frequently receiving below-par safety ratings, with the electrical components of its TIPM also playing a role in giving it a less-than-reputable name. Cam and lifter failures, engine and transmission issues, coolant leaks and poor body structure all add up to a less than pleasant way to part with your money, even if it’s considered cheap.
6 Jeep Cherokee (fourth generation) ($14,000)
Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee models are quite popular in North America, and even in Europe, thanks to their relatively cheap cost and huge interior. But the remaining positives for the fourth generations get a little clouded when you realize that they tend to break.
Gasket oil leaks, an inconsistent cruise control system, and problems with the power transfer unit are common problems with the Cherokee of this era. Throttle position failure is also a big concern, so if you get close to one of these SUVs, be extra careful to stay on top of your maintenance. Otherwise, you might as well get used to sitting on the side of the road.
5 GMC Yukon (fourth generation) ($15,000)
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Like the previous entry, the Yukon presents massive choice for a relatively small outlay. But the fourth-generation models, between 2014 and 2017, have more than a few issues that cause them to break down so frequently. These include a faulty drive system and major engine and transmission problems, none of which are cheap or easy to fix.
In addition, a number of internal electrical problems will constantly cause pepper ownership. Some examples of this are sunroof failures, door lock actuators not working when they should, and even an engine “not starting” as an anti-theft system trigger. It’s a very poor vehicle all around, and $15,000 will certainly be spent more wisely elsewhere.
4 Toyota Tacoma (third generation) ($17,500)
The Toyota Tacoma previously held a strong position in the pick-up market and built a strong reputation as a preferred choice for many people. That all changed with the third generation, however, which became synonymous with leaking differentials, terrible steering feel and a very dirty interior.
The amount of wind noise generated at high speeds is annoying enough for owners, but the Tacoma’s Achilles heel is cold weather. Buyers have often complained of a strong transmission lag when the weather is cold, while the engine itself creates a strong vibration inside the truck.
3 Porsche Cayenne (2nd generation) ($19,000)
This is definitely the most suitable car for this list. Often hailed as the car that “saved” the brand, the Porsche Cayenne is undoubtedly one of the world’s leading sport utility vehicles. It deserves that reputation because it’s a really good car…now. The previous generations are a bit more questionable.
It’s not that they weren’t sporty or comfortable, two key traits for any SUV, it’s that they were terribly unreliable. Heavy gearshifts and a very noisy transmission make owners nervous enough, but the list of potential problems, including faulty oil pressure monitors, chassis system failure messages and malfunction warnings the random airbags make the Cayenne hell. Especially if you’re on a budget.
2 Ford Explorer (fifth generation) ($16,000)
There’s no doubting the Ford Explorer’s lineage credentials: it’s famous for a reason. But as with most long-running models, there are one or two that aren’t quite as good as the others. With the fifth-generation Explorer, that rings true: an SUV that loves to end a trip before you even reach your destination.
Throttle body problems, starter motor failures, and dashboard lights that refuse to turn off will cause a breakdown or drive you crazy to the point where you want to get out and walk away. Another odd problem from former owners are reports of carbon monoxide leaks inside, which can cause nausea and headaches for occupants.
1 Nissan Titan (first generation) ($14,500)
Having first been introduced in 2004, the Nissan Titan hasn’t seen the level of success that many of its pick-up competitors like the F-150 and Silverado have. Part of that is because it’s terrible all around, which is a shame because Nissan seems to be going in that direction with several of its models.
However, this is mostly due to the ridiculous maintenance record of the Titan, which comes from the first generation models in particular. Rear axle seal and differential oil leaks were among the two most common problems, which meant that eventually the entire rear end was susceptible to catastrophic failure. $14,500 for one of these? No thankyou.
