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Reliability Database

Least Reliable Used Cars: Engines to Avoid

The least reliable used vehicles ranked by engine-specific NHTSA complaint data, with the top 10 worst in each segment. These engines have the highest complaint density relative to their category, often with fire reports or safety-related failures.

Based on 1,150,453 NHTSA complaints across 52 brands. Updated May 2026.

Compact Sedan

10 vehicles
1
Audi A4 2002-2005
1.8L 4-cyl 1.8-I4-Gas
901 complaints
19 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
BMW 3 Series 2000-2006
2.5L 6-cyl M54B25
4,308 complaints
165 fires 5 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Chevrolet Avalanche 2007
5.3L 8-cyl LC9
489 complaints
10 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 4
Chevrolet Cavalier 2000-2005
2.2L 4-cyl L61
2,063 complaints
32 fires 9 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 5
Chevrolet Cobalt 2005-2010
2.2L 4-cyl L61
7,943 complaints
74 fires 49 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 6
Chevrolet Cruze 2011-2019
1.4L Turbo 4-cyl LUV
3,667 complaints
81 fires 3 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 7
Daewoo Lanos 2000-2002
1.6L FAM I
365 complaints
6 fires 3 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 8
Daewoo Leganza 2000-2002
Unknown Daewoo Leganza Unidentified Engine
366 complaints
8 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.0) 9
Dodge Dart 2013-2016
1.4L Turbo 4-cyl 1.4T-I4-Gas
2,206 complaints
32 fires 2 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 10
Dodge Neon 2000-2005
2.0L 4-cyl 2.0-I4-Gas
1,079 complaints
36 fires 9 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0)

Subcompact SUV

10 vehicles
1
BMW X1 2013-2015
2.0L 4-cyl 2.0-I4-Gas
304 complaints
11 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Chevrolet Trax 2024-2025
1.2L Turbo 3-cyl LIH
206 complaints
9 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Ford EcoSport 2018-2022
1.0L 3-cyl 1.0-I3-Gas
1,766 complaints
12 fires 3 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 4
Hyundai Kona 2018-2023
2.0L 4-cyl MPI Nu
774 complaints
22 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.0) 5
Jeep Renegade 2015-2025
2.4L 4-cyl 2.4-I4-Gas
2,101 complaints
32 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 6
Mini Countryman 2012
1.6L 4-cyl 1.6-I4-Gas
94 complaints
13 fires
❌ Avoid (1.1) 7
Honda HR-V 2023-2025
2.0L 4-cyl K20Z5
804 complaints
1 fire 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.5) 8
Nissan Juke 2011-2017
Unknown Nissan Juke Unidentified Engine
466 complaints
9 fires
❌ Avoid (1.6) 9
Kia Seltos 2021-2025
2.0L 4-cyl Nu MPI
458 complaints
8 fires
❌ Avoid (1.7) 10
Buick Encore 2013-2022
1.4L Turbo 4-cyl LUV
567 complaints
7 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.8)

Full-Size Sedan

10 vehicles
1
Buick LaCrosse 2005-2009
3.8L 6-cyl L26
1,207 complaints
40 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Buick LeSabre 2000-2005
3.8L 6-cyl L36
1,715 complaints
76 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Buick Lucerne 2006-2011
3.8L 6-cyl L26
932 complaints
50 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.0) 4
Cadillac DeVille 2000-2005
4.6L 8-cyl LD8
981 complaints
15 fires 14 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 5
Cadillac DTS 2006-2011
4.6L 8-cyl LD8
502 complaints
21 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 6
Chevrolet Impala 2000-2005
3.8L 6-cyl L36
4,731 complaints
238 fires 4 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 7
Chrysler 300 2005-2010
5.7L 8-cyl 5.7-V8-Gas
4,471 complaints
66 fires 8 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 8
Dodge Charger 2006-2010
5.7L 8-cyl 5.7-V8-Gas
2,888 complaints
64 fires 4 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 9
Dodge Intrepid 2000-2004
2.7L 6-cyl 2.7-V6-Gas
2,301 complaints
67 fires 2 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 10
Ford Five Hundred 2005-2007
3.0L 6-cyl 3.0-V6-Gas
1,073 complaints
15 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0)

Midsize SUV

10 vehicles
1
Buick Rendezvous 2002-2007
3.4L 6-cyl LA1
1,238 complaints
25 fires 3 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Chevrolet Trailblazer 2002-2009
4.2L 6-cyl LL8
7,931 complaints
253 fires 29 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Dodge Durango 2004-2009
5.7L 8-cyl 5.7-V8-Gas
3,913 complaints
109 fires 5 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 4
Dodge Journey 2009-2020
3.5L 6-cyl 3.5-V6-Gas
5,420 complaints
109 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.0) 5
Ford Explorer 2002-2005
4.0L 6-cyl 4.0-V6-Gas
6,471 complaints
95 fires 9 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 6
GMC Envoy 2002-2009
4.2L 6-cyl LL8
3,511 complaints
108 fires 11 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 7
Honda Pilot 2003-2008
3.5L 6-cyl J35A4
2,543 complaints
47 fires 104 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 8
Hyundai Santa Fe 2007-2012
Unknown Hyundai Santa Fe Unidentified Engine
2,343 complaints
51 fires 7 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 9
Isuzu Ascender Ext 2004
4.2L 6-cyl LL8
64 complaints
2 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 10
Jeep Commander 2006-2010
5.7L 8-cyl 5.7-V8-Gas
3,343 complaints
31 fires 8 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0)

Full-Size SUV

10 vehicles
1
Cadillac Escalade 2007-2014
6.2L 8-cyl L92
709 complaints
20 fires 11 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Chevrolet Suburban 2000-2006
5.3L 8-cyl L59
2,538 complaints
46 fires 3 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Chevrolet Tahoe 2000-2006
5.3L 8-cyl LM7
2,581 complaints
51 fires 14 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 4
Ford Expedition 2003-2006
5.4L 8-cyl 5.4-V8-Gas
1,528 complaints
64 fires 7 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 5
GMC Yukon 2000-2006
6.0L 8-cyl LQ4
2,416 complaints
31 fires 5 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 6
Mercedes-Benz Gl-Class 2007
4.7L 8-cyl 4.7-V8-Gas
122 complaints
34 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 7
Oldsmobile Bravada 2002
4.2L 6-cyl LL8
240 complaints
7 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 8
Tesla Model X 2016-2020
Unknown Tesla Model X Unidentified Engine
1,010 complaints
10 fires 53 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 9
Ford Excursion 2000-2005
6.8L 10-cyl 6.8-V10-Gas
1,151 complaints
91 fires 9 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.1) 10
Lincoln Navigator 2003-2006
5.4L 8-cyl 5.4-V8-Gas
317 complaints
10 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.1)

Subcompact

10 vehicles
1
Chevrolet Aveo 2004-2011
1.6L 4-cyl L91
1,319 complaints
75 fires 7 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Mini Cooper 2002
1.6L 4-cyl 1.6-I4-Gas
269 complaints
13 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Toyota Yaris 2007-2011
1.5L 4-cyl 1NZ-FE
759 complaints
13 fires 2 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 4
Hyundai Accent 2012-2017
1.6L DOHC GDI GAMMA
594 complaints
40 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.2) 5
Kia Rio 2001-2005
1.5L 4-cyl 1.5-I4-Gas
540 complaints
32 fires 3 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.2) 6
Mini Clubman 2009
1.6L 4-cyl N16B16
90 complaints
3 fires
❌ Avoid (1.2) 7
Nissan Versa 2012-2019
1.6L 4-cyl 1.6-I4-Gas
1,524 complaints
12 fires 7 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.2) 8
Chevrolet Sonic 2012-2020
1.8L 4-cyl LUW
942 complaints
17 fires 2 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.3) 9
Ford Fiesta 2011-2019
1.6L 4-cyl 1.6-I4-Gas
3,111 complaints
24 fires 6 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.3) 10
Toyota Echo 2000-2005
1.5L 1NZ-FF
207 complaints
9 fires 4 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.9)

Sports Car

10 vehicles
1
Chevrolet Corvette 2000-2004
Unknown Chevrolet Corvette Unidentified Engine
947 complaints
5 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Fiat 500 Abarth 2014
1.4L Turbo 4-cyl 330A1047
119 complaints
7 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Fiat 500 Abarth Cabrio 2015
1.4L 4-cyl 1.4-I4-Gas
90 complaints
3 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 4
Hyundai Tiburon 2003-2008
Unknown Hyundai Tiburon Unidentified Engine
578 complaints
8 fires 3 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 5
Mazda RX-8 2004-2012
1.3L 13B (1.3L) HP
789 complaints
15 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 6
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution 2010
Unknown Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Unidentified Engine
79 complaints
2 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 7
Pontiac Gto 2004
5.7L 8-cyl LS1
245 complaints
1 fire 2 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 8
Nissan 350Z 2003-2008
3.5L 6-cyl VQ35DE
645 complaints
6 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.1) 9
Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio 2018
2.0L Turbo 4-cyl 2.0T-I4-Gas
79 complaints
1 fire
❌ Avoid (1.3) 10
Toyota Celica 2000-2005
1.8L 4-cyl 1ZZ-FE
220 complaints
2 fires 6 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.3)

Midsize Sedan

10 vehicles
1
Chevrolet Malibu 2004-2007
3.5L 6-cyl LX9
5,500 complaints
70 fires 3 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Chrysler 200 2015-2017
2.4L 4-cyl 2.4-I4-Gas
2,353 complaints
35 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Dodge Avenger 2008-2014
2.4L 4-cyl 2.4-I4-Gas
2,576 complaints
56 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.0) 4
Ford Fusion 2013-2020
1.6L 4-cyl 1.6-I4-Gas
8,218 complaints
136 fires 4 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 5
Honda Accord 2003-2007
2.4L 4-cyl K24A4
4,612 complaints
64 fires 12 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 6
Hyundai Sonata 2006-2010
2.4L 4-cyl Theta - FF
2,960 complaints
40 fires 3 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 7
Kia Optima 2011-2015
2.0L Turbo DOHC T-GDI THETA-II
4,621 complaints
335 fires 8 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 8
Lexus ES 2007-2012
3.5L 6-cyl 2GR-FE
1,633 complaints
13 fires 9 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 9
Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2003-2009
3.5L 6-cyl 3.5-V6-Gas
2,736 complaints
41 fires 5 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 10
Nissan Altima 2002-2006
2.5L 4-cyl QR25DE
4,111 complaints
74 fires 2 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0)

Minivan

10 vehicles
1
Chrysler Pacifica 2004-2008
3.5L 6-cyl 24V MPI
3,337 complaints
67 fires 12 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Dodge Grand Caravan 2008-2020
3.8L 6-cyl 3.8-V6-Gas
7,432 complaints
112 fires 4 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Ford Windstar 2000-2003
3.8L 6-cyl 3.8-V6-Gas
6,234 complaints
193 fires 6 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 4
Honda Odyssey 2000-2004
3.5L 6-cyl J35A4
3,760 complaints
30 fires 10 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 5
Kia Sedona 2002-2005
3.5L Sigma
828 complaints
75 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.1) 6
Nissan Quest 2004-2009
3.5L 6-cyl VQ35DE
892 complaints
19 fires 4 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.1) 7
Toyota Sienna 2004-2010
3.5L 6-cyl 2GR-FE
5,355 complaints
33 fires 7 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.1) 8
Chrysler Town & Country 2008-2016
3.8L 6-cyl 3.8-V6-Gas
7,557 complaints
104 fires 4 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.2) 9
Chevrolet Venture 2000-2005
3.4L 6-cyl 3.4-V6-Gas
1,155 complaints
20 fires 7 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.3) 10
Pontiac Montana 2000-2006
3.4L 6-cyl 3.4-V6-Gas
798 complaints
17 fires 5 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.5)

Compact SUV

10 vehicles
1
Dodge Nitro 2007-2011
3.7L 6-cyl Magnum
1,449 complaints
33 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Ford Bronco Sport 2021-2025
1.5L 3-cyl DRAGON
1,115 complaints
34 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Ford Escape 2001-2007
3.0L 6-cyl 3.0-V6-Gas
5,792 complaints
239 fires 12 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 4
Honda CR-V 2002-2006
2.4L 4-cyl K24A1
2,360 complaints
114 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 5
Hummer H3 2006-2010
3.5L 5-cyl L52
792 complaints
55 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.0) 6
Hyundai Tucson 2016-2021
2.0L 4-cyl 2.0-I4-Gas
3,591 complaints
72 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.0) 7
Jeep Liberty 2002-2007
3.7L 6-cyl 3.7-V6-Gas
7,411 complaints
125 fires 15 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 8
Kia Sportage 2011-2016
2.4L MPI Theta-ii
1,337 complaints
61 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 9
Mazda CX-7 2007-2012
Unknown Mazda CX-7 Unidentified Engine
1,121 complaints
42 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 10
Mazda Tribute 2001-2011
3.0L 6-cyl AJD
2,106 complaints
55 fires 5 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0)

Compact

10 vehicles
1
Hyundai Veloster 2012-2017
1.6L DOHC GDI GAMMA
1,184 complaints
56 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Kia Soul 2010-2013
Unknown Kia Soul Unidentified Engine
1,480 complaints
85 fires 3 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
BMW 1 Series 2008-2013
3.0L 6-cyl N52B30
409 complaints
17 fires
❌ Avoid (1.1) 4
Volkswagen New Beetle 2000-2010
Unknown Volkswagen New Beetle Unidentified Engine
417 complaints
11 fires
❌ Avoid (1.5) 5
Nissan Cube 2009-2014
1.8L 4-cyl 1.8-I4-Gas
210 complaints
5 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.6) 6
Audi A3 2015-2020
1.8L 4-cyl 1.8-I4-Gas
518 complaints
4 fires
❌ Avoid (1.8) 7
Mazda Mazda5 2006-2010
2.3L L3V (2.3L) Federal
321 complaints
7 fires
❌ Avoid (1.8) 8
Volkswagen Cabrio 2000-2002
2.0L 4-cyl 2.0-I4-Gas
80 complaints
6 fires
❌ Avoid (1.8) 9
Hyundai Ioniq 2017-2022
1.6L 4-cyl GDI KAPPA
160 complaints
5 fires
❌ Avoid (1.9) 10
Kia Rondo 2007-2010
Unknown Kia Rondo Unidentified Engine
294 complaints
2 fires 1 death
⚠️ Caution (2.0)

Van

10 vehicles
1
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 12 Passenger 2019
3.0L 6-cyl OM 642 with Brake Assist
64 complaints
4 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 15 Passenger 2019
3.0L 6-cyl OM 642 with Brake Assist
64 complaints
4 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 Cargo Van 2019
3.0L 6-cyl OM 642 with Brake Assist
64 complaints
4 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 4
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 Crew Van 2019
3.0L 6-cyl OM 642 with Brake Assist
64 complaints
4 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 5
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 2016
3.0L 6-cyl MG5+MH1
61 complaints
2 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 6
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 Cab Chassis 2014
3.0L 6-cyl MG5+MH1
54 complaints
1 fire
❌ Avoid (1.0) 7
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 Cargo 2020
3.0L OM642
74 complaints
1 fire
❌ Avoid (1.2) 8
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 Cargo Diesel 2020
3.0L OM642
74 complaints
1 fire
❌ Avoid (1.2) 9
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 Crew 2020
3.0L OM642
74 complaints
1 fire
❌ Avoid (1.2) 10
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 Crew Diesel 2020
3.0L OM642
74 complaints
1 fire
❌ Avoid (1.2)

Compact Hatchback

9 vehicles
1
Chevrolet HHR 2006-2011
2.2L 4-cyl L61/LBZ
3,564 complaints
29 fires 8 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Chrysler PT Cruiser 2001-2010
2.4L 4-cyl 2.4-I4-Gas
2,616 complaints
109 fires 8 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Toyota Prius 2004-2009
1.5L 4-cyl 1NZ-FXE
7,073 complaints
30 fires 12 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 4
Dodge Caliber 2007-2012
2.0L 4-cyl 2.0-I4-Gas
1,931 complaints
32 fires 4 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.1) 5
Volkswagen Golf 2015-2021
2.0L 4-cyl 2.0-I4-Diesel
1,213 complaints
6 fires 2 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.3) 6
Ford C-Max 2013-2018
2.0L 4-cyl 2.0-I4-PHEV
609 complaints
15 fires
❌ Avoid (1.4) 7
Toyota Matrix 2003-2008
Unknown Toyota Matrix Unidentified Engine
211 complaints
1 fire 2 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.6) 8
Lexus CT 2011-2017
1.8L 4-cyl 2ZR-FXE+3JM
156 complaints
2 fires 99 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.9) 9
Nissan Leaf 2018-2024
Unknown Nissan Leaf Unidentified Engine
571 complaints
6 fires
⚠️ Caution (2.2)

Luxury Sedan

9 vehicles
1
Jaguar F-Pace 2017
3.0L 6-cyl S/C LEV3 SULEV30
60 complaints
2 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Jaguar I-Pace 2019
Unknown Jaguar I-Pace Unidentified Engine
146 complaints
4 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Jaguar S-Type 2000
Unknown Jaguar S-Type Unidentified Engine
141 complaints
1 fire
❌ Avoid (1.0) 4
Jaguar X-Type 2002
Unknown Jaguar X-Type Unidentified Engine
124 complaints
3 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 5
Jaguar Xk Series 2002
Unknown Jaguar Xk Series Unidentified Engine
131 complaints
3 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 6
Polestar Polestar 2 2021-2025
Unknown E400V6
565 complaints
❌ Avoid (1.3) 7
Polestar Polestar 3 2025
Unknown E400V30
71 complaints
❌ Avoid (1.8) 8
Mercedes-Benz Clk-Class 2007
3.5L 6-cyl 3.5-V6-Gas
52 complaints
⚠️ Caution (2.0) 9
Lucid Air 2022-2025
Unknown Lucid Air Electric Drivetrain
66 complaints
⚠️ Caution (2.5)

Full-Size Truck

8 vehicles
1
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2000-2006
5.3L 8-cyl LM7 Iron
10,840 complaints
184 fires 23 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Dodge Ram 2000-2001
Unknown Dodge Ram Unidentified Engine
3,027 complaints
80 fires 4 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Ford F-150 2000-2003
5.4L 8-cyl 5.4-V8-Gas
3,715 complaints
739 fires 9 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 4
Nissan Titan 2004-2015
5.6L 8-cyl VK56DE
2,796 complaints
34 fires 10 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 5
Ram 1500 2009-2018
3.0L Turbo 6-cyl 3.0T-V6-Diesel
9,059 complaints
168 fires 10 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 6
Toyota Tundra 2000-2006
4.7L 8-cyl 2UZ-FE
3,689 complaints
15 fires 9 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.2) 7
GMC Sierra 1500 2000-2006
Unknown GMC Sierra 1500 Unidentified Engine
3,698 complaints
63 fires 12 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.3) 8
Tesla Cybertruck 2024-2025
Unknown Tesla Cybertruck Unidentified Engine
125 complaints
2 fires 6 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.4)

Pickup

7 vehicles
1
Chevrolet Colorado 2004-2012
3.5L 5-cyl L52
1,336 complaints
45 fires 5 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Dodge Dakota 2000-2004
4.7L 8-cyl 4.7-V8-Gas
2,656 complaints
54 fires 7 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Ford Explorer Sport Trac 2001-2005
Unknown Ford Explorer Sport Trac Unidentified Engine
2,731 complaints
51 fires 5 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 4
Ford Ranger 2000-2011
3.0L 6-cyl 3.0-V6-Gas
3,938 complaints
62 fires 18 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 5
Jeep Gladiator 2020-2025
3.6L 6-cyl 3.6-V6-Gas
899 complaints
25 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 6
GMC Canyon 2004-2012
3.5L 5-cyl L52
397 complaints
13 fires
❌ Avoid (1.2) 7
GMC Sonoma 2000-2004
4.3L 6-cyl L35
321 complaints
3 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.2)

Full-Size Van

6 vehicles
1
Ford E-Series 2000-2025
Unknown Ford E-Series Unidentified Engine
729 complaints
38 fires 3 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Ford Transit 2015-2025
3.5L 6-cyl 3.5-V6-Gas
477 complaints
9 fires
❌ Avoid (1.1) 3
Ram ProMaster 2014-2025
3.6L 6-cyl 3.6-V6-Gas
495 complaints
9 fires
❌ Avoid (1.1) 4
Volkswagen Eurovan 2000-2003
2.8L 6-cyl 2.8-V6-Gas
80 complaints
9 fires
❌ Avoid (1.1) 5
Chevrolet Express 2003-2025
6.0L 8-cyl LQ4 Iron
299 complaints
15 fires
❌ Avoid (1.6) 6
GMC Savana 2003-2025
6.0L 8-cyl LQ4
90 complaints
3 fires
⚠️ Caution (2.1)

Midsize Coupe

5 vehicles
1
Acura CL 2001-2003
3.2L 6-cyl J32A2
387 complaints
2 fires 3 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Chevrolet Monte Carlo 2000-2007
3.8L 6-cyl L36
1,402 complaints
124 fires 5 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Toyota Solara 2004-2008
Unknown Toyota Solara Unidentified Engine
114 complaints
3 fires
❌ Avoid (1.4) 4
Audi A7 2012-2018
3.0L 6-cyl Audi
144 complaints
4 fires
❌ Avoid (1.5) 5
Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class 2006-2011
5.0L 8-cyl 5.0-V8-Gas
177 complaints
⚠️ Caution (2.2)

Compact Coupe

5 vehicles
1
Audi A5 2018-2025
2.0L 4-cyl 2.0-I4-Gas
172 complaints
1 death
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
BMW 4 Series 2014-2020
2.0L 4-cyl 2.0-I4-Gas
327 complaints
11 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class 2014-2019
2.0L 4-cyl 2.0-I4-Gas
391 complaints
5 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.0) 4
Volvo C70 2006-2013
2.5L 5-cyl B5254T7
106 complaints
2 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.3) 5
Acura RSX 2002-2006
2.0L 4-cyl K20A3
188 complaints
1 fire
⚠️ Caution (2.3)

Heavy-Duty Truck

5 vehicles
1
Ford Super Duty 2000-2007
6.0L 8-cyl 6.0-V8-Diesel
5,384 complaints
243 fires 30 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Ram 3500 2010-2018
6.7L Turbo 8-cyl 6.7T-V8-Diesel
1,633 complaints
25 fires 2 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.2) 3
Ram 2500 2010-2018
6.7L Turbo 8-cyl 6.7T-V8-Diesel
4,779 complaints
48 fires 2 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.3) 4
Chevrolet Silverado HD 2015-2019
6.6L Turbo 8-cyl L5P - Direct Injection, DURAMAX, GEN 5, VAR 1
119 complaints
6 fires
❌ Avoid (1.6) 5
GMC Sierra HD 2015-2019
6.6L 8-cyl L5P - DI, DURAMAX, GEN 5 VAR. 1
71 complaints
3 fires
⚠️ Caution (2.0)

Subcompact Sedan

5 vehicles
1
Suzuki Reno 2005-2008
2.0L 4-cyl 2.0-I4-Gas
173 complaints
7 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Suzuki Verona 2004-2006
2.5L 6-cyl 2.5-I6-Gas
216 complaints
5 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Suzuki Aerio 2002-2007
2.0L 4-cyl 2.0-I4-Gas
118 complaints
4 fires
❌ Avoid (1.2) 4
Mitsubishi Mirage 2014-2025
Unknown Mitsubishi Mirage Unidentified Engine
131 complaints
1 fire 3 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.3) 5
Suzuki Kizashi 2010-2013
2.4L J24B
71 complaints
1 fire
❌ Avoid (1.9)

Roadster

4 vehicles
1
BMW Z4 2003-2008
3.0L 6-cyl M54B30
1,150 complaints
7 fires 2 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Mercedes-Benz SL-Class 2003-2012
5.0L 8-cyl 5.0-V8-Gas
253 complaints
15 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
BMW Z3 2000-2002
3.2L 6-cyl 3.2-V6-Gas
116 complaints
1 fire 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.3) 4
Cadillac XLR 2004-2009
4.6L 8-cyl LH2
78 complaints
1 fire
⚠️ Caution (2.2)

Midsize Truck

4 vehicles
1
Chevrolet S-10 2000
Unknown Chevrolet S-10 Unidentified Engine
481 complaints
8 fires
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Honda Ridgeline 2006-2014
3.5L 6-cyl J35A9
756 complaints
29 fires 100 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Toyota Tacoma 2005-2015
4.0L 6-cyl 1GR-FE
4,041 complaints
65 fires 8 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 4
Nissan Frontier 2000-2004
2.4L 4-cyl 2.4-I4-Gas
597 complaints
19 fires 2 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.4)

Compact Truck

4 vehicles
1
Ford Maverick 2022-2025
2.5L HYBRID
1,083 complaints
5 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.6) 2
Hyundai Santa Cruz 2022-2025
2.5L Turbo 4-cyl T-GDI THETA III
289 complaints
4 fires
⚠️ Caution (2.2) 3
Mazda B-Series 2000-2009
3.0L 6-cyl 3.0-V6-Gas
248 complaints
7 fires
⚠️ Caution (2.4) 4
Subaru Baja 2003-2006
Unknown Subaru Baja Unidentified Engine
116 complaints
2 fires
⚠️ Caution (2.4)

Grand Tourer

3 vehicles
1
BMW 6 Series 2004-2010
4.4L 8-cyl N62B44
133 complaints
11 fires 2 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Cadillac Eldorado 2000-2002
Unknown Cadillac Eldorado Unidentified Engine
66 complaints
4 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.5) 3
Ford Thunderbird 2002-2005
Unknown Ford Thunderbird Unidentified Engine
191 complaints
1 fire 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.7)

Midsize Wagon

3 vehicles
1
Dodge Magnum 2005-2008
5.7L 8-cyl 5.7-V8-Gas
1,153 complaints
14 fires 2 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0) 2
Volvo V70 2001-2007
Unknown B5244T3
664 complaints
17 fires 1 death
❌ Avoid (1.0) 3
Volvo XC70 2008-2016
Unknown Volvo XC70 Unidentified Engine
119 complaints
2 fires
❌ Avoid (1.9)

Midsize EV SUV

3 vehicles
1
Audi e-tron 2019-2023
Unknown Audi e-tron Unidentified Engine
110 complaints
4 fires
❌ Avoid (1.1) 2
Cadillac Lyriq 2023-2025
Unknown X0E + EC6
139 complaints
3 fires
❌ Avoid (1.7) 3
BMW iX 2022-2025
Unknown BMW iX Unidentified Engine
104 complaints
2 fires
❌ Avoid (1.8)

Muscle Car

2 vehicles
1
Ford Mustang 2000-2004
3.8L 6-cyl 3.8-V6-Gas
1,212 complaints
32 fires 11 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.1) 2
Chevrolet Camaro 2010-2015
3.6L 6-cyl LFX
1,170 complaints
14 fires 6 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.5)

Compact Van

2 vehicles
1
Ford Transit Connect 2014-2023
2.0L 4-cyl 2.0-I4-Gas
416 complaints
5 fires
❌ Avoid (1.2) 2
Ram ProMaster City 2015-2022
2.4L 4-cyl 2.4-I4-Gas
111 complaints
2 fires
❌ Avoid (1.9)

Motorcycle

2 vehicles
1
Honda Vtx1800 2003
1.8L 2-cyl SC46E-2100101
53 complaints
2 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.3) 2
Honda Gl1800 2001
1.8L 6-cyl SC47E-2400001
87 complaints
⚠️ Caution (2.2)

Off-Road SUV

1 vehicle
1
Jeep Wrangler 2000-2006
4.0L 6-cyl 4.0-I6-Gas
2,186 complaints
65 fires 5 deaths
❌ Avoid (1.0)

Commercial Truck

1 vehicle
1
Volvo Vn770 2000
12.7L 6-cyl S60
85 complaints
1 fire
❌ Avoid (1.1)

Midsize EV

1 vehicle
1
Porsche Taycan 2020-2025
Unknown Porsche Taycan Unidentified Engine
256 complaints
4 fires
❌ Avoid (1.3)

Compact EV SUV

1 vehicle
1
Ford Mustang Mach-E 2021-2025
Unknown Ford Mustang Mach-E Unidentified Engine
602 complaints
2 fires
❌ Avoid (1.6)

Full-Size EV

1 vehicle
1
Mercedes-Benz EQS 2022-2025
Unknown ED
113 complaints
3 fires
❌ Avoid (1.6)

Compact Hybrid

1 vehicle
1
Chevrolet Volt 2016-2019
1.5L 4-cyl L3A - DI, VVT, HYBRID, GEN 1
1,094 complaints
10 fires
⚠️ Caution (2.1)

Compact EV

1 vehicle
1
BMW i3 2014-2021
0.6L 2-cyl 0.6-2cyl-PHEV
220 complaints
3 fires
⚠️ Caution (2.3)

Compact Wagon

1 vehicle
1
Volvo V60 2015-2018
2.5L 5-cyl B5254T12
55 complaints
⚠️ Caution (2.5)

Want the reliable picks? View most reliable used cars →

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the least reliable used cars?

Our data shows that certain engines across multiple brands have significantly higher complaint rates than their segment averages. Common problem areas include turbocharged four-cylinder engines and certain CVT transmissions. Check individual generation pages for detailed complaint breakdowns.

What used car engines should I avoid?

Engines rated "Avoid" in our database have complaint rates well above their segment average, often with fire reports or safety-related issues. Always check the specific engine variant, not just the model name, since the same car may be available with both reliable and problematic engines.

Why do some popular cars have poor reliability ratings?

NHTSA complaint counts correlate with sales volume. However, our rating system compares complaint density (complaints per year) within each segment, which accounts for popularity differences. Cars rated "Avoid" genuinely have disproportionate complaint rates even after this adjustment.

Are Hyundai and Kia engines reliable?

It depends on the specific engine. Hyundai and Kia's Theta II and Nu engines have well-documented issues including engine seizure and fire risk, resulting in massive recalls. However, their newer Smartstream engines show improved reliability. Always check the specific engine code in our database.

What car engine problems are most dangerous?

Engine fires and sudden loss of power are the most dangerous failure modes. Our database flags fire reports and fatalities for each engine. Vehicles with multiple fire reports across different owners indicate a systemic design or manufacturing issue rather than isolated incidents.

How do I check if a used car has known engine problems?

Search for the specific make, model, and year in our database to see engine-specific complaint data. Also check NHTSA.gov for open recalls using the VIN, and request maintenance records showing whether any engine-related service bulletins have been addressed.

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