Know the car before you buy it
Model-by-model answers for the car you drive or want.
Common problems by year, the best and worst years to buy, reliability and real ownership costs, explained make by make in plain English.
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Explore Car Model Guides
Pick a make to find problems, reliability and buying advice for each model.
Kia
Sorento, Sportage, Soul, Forte, Optima and more: problems, years and costs.
Explore topic →02Volvo
XC90, XC60, S60, V60 and more: reliability and ownership guides.
Explore topic →03Dodge
Charger, Challenger, Durango, Journey and more: years to buy or avoid.
Explore topic →04Lincoln
Navigator, Aviator, Nautilus, Corsair and more: reliability and costs.
Explore topic →05Ford
Explorer, Escape, Expedition, Bronco Sport and more: problems by year.
Explore topic →06Volkswagen
Jetta, Tiguan, Atlas, Passat, Golf and more: what used buyers should know.
Explore topic →Featured reading
Start Here: Most-Asked Model Questions
The checks owners and used buyers look up first.
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Kia Soul vs Kia Seltos: Which Is Better Used?
Choose the Kia Soul for the lower-priced city commuter; choose the Kia Seltos if used prices are close and you want more…
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What Fuel Does the Volvo XC60 Require?
Most Volvo XC60 gasoline trims call for premium unleaded 91 octane or higher; diesel XC60s need ultra-low-sulfur diesel.
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What Are the Most Common Kia Sorento Problems?
Engine failures, oil consumption, transmission faults, electrical glitches, and suspension wear are the most common Kia Sorento problems.
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Which Ford Explorer Engine Is Best to Buy?
The 2.3L EcoBoost is the best all-around used Explorer engine; pick the 3.0L V6 for towing and skip the 3.5L NA V6…
From the blog
Latest Car Model Guides
New guides on problems, reliability, best years and ownership costs.
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Lincoln MKX vs Ford Edge: Which Is Better Used?
Ford Edge is usually the better used buy for lower ownership cost; Lincoln MKX suits buyers…
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Do Dodge Grand Caravans Have Transmission Problems?
Yes—Dodge Grand Caravans can have transmission problems, especially the 62TE. Slipping, shuddering, or banging on a…
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What Are the Most Common Volvo XC90 Problems?
The most common Volvo XC90 problems are infotainment and software faults, ignition and battery issues, suspension…
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What Are the Most Common Lincoln Navigator Problems?
Air suspension faults, transmission issues, steering wear, and cooling leaks are the most common Lincoln Navigator…
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Which Kia Sorento Engine Is Best for Reliability?
Best for reliability: the 2.5L non-turbo four-cylinder, then the 1.6L turbo hybrid. Skip the turbo 2.5L…
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What Are the Most Common Dodge Durango Problems?
Transmission shudder, electrical glitches, suspension noise, cooling leaks, and rust are the main Dodge Durango issues…
Recent Guides
- Kia Soul vs Kia Seltos: Which Is Better Used?
- What Fuel Does the Volvo XC60 Require?
- What Are the Most Common Kia Sorento Problems?
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