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Yahoo
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
I'm a Mechanic: 9 Cars I Would Never Buy & Why They Aren't Worth It
Consumers often consider the sticker price, features, and design when deciding which car to buy. However, car buyers should also consider hidden problems like transmission, the depreciation rate, and repair costs so they won't have to deal with headaches and a drained wallet a year later. Find Out: Discover More: GOBankingRates talked to Chris Pyle, an auto mechanic and expert at JustAnswer, to discuss the ten cars he would never buy and why they aren't worth it. According to Car and Driver, Tesla 'has proven that electric vehicles can be desirable, combining outstanding performance and high-tech interiors with usable driving range.' Driving a Tesla may seem wonderful until it needs repairs. Pyle ranks Tesla and Rivian among the top cars he wouldn't buy because the cost of owning the car outweighs the price. A 2024 Tesla Model 3 starts at nearly $41,000. Pyle ranked Tesla, along with Rivian, at the top of the list of cars he wouldn't buy. 'The reasons are the cost of ownership once a motor or battery fails, and the repair cost is far more than the vehicle value.' Dash Lewis, writing for Jalopnik, a news and opinion website about the 'culture of cars,' says Tesla is one of the most expensive cars to repair and maintain. Expect to pay an average of $5,552 in repair costs while you own a Tesla. Part of the reason is that Tesla car parts are unique and difficult to find. Similar to other luxury cars, you're going to pay premium prices for car parts, Lewis said. Even when compared to other electric vehicles, Tesla costs more. Lewis estimated it costs $1,078 more to repair a Tesla during its lifetime than other electric vehicles. Find Out: The Rivian tied with Tesla as the top car Pyle said he wouldn't buy. Rivian is a California-based start-up that manufactures premium electric SUVs and pick-up trucks from their Illinois factory. 'The high cost of collision repairs and collision insurance can often be a car payment in itself,' Pyle said. A 2025 Rivian RIT pick-up truck starts at $71,000. Like the Tesla, the Rivian is an expensive vehicle to repair. One Rivian owner said on an online forum that a minor accident cost him much more than expected. What appeared to be a bent bumper cover and a dented tailgate resulted in mechanics having to disassemble the truck's rear end and two and a half months of repairs. 'I figured the repair would be expensive but had no idea!' the Rivian owner said. 'Originally her insurance estimated the damage to be around $1,600 and sent me a check…The final bill was over $42,000!' Pyle said he wouldn't buy any new truck, including Ford, Dodge, Chevy, Nissan, or Toyota. 'The light-duty up to the heavy-duty models are way overpriced,' Pyle said. 'In the first five years of ownership, you are going to lose about 35% to 55% of the car value in the $30,000 to $50,000 price range. It is better to buy one used so that the first owner takes the loss.' According to Car and Driver, today's heavy-duty trucks are 'workhorses, luxury vehicles, high-performance machines, and comfortable cruisers.' However, CarEdge, an online vehicle reseller, estimated that a Ford F-350 Super Duty, for example, would depreciate by 36% after five years and have a five-year resale value of nearly $49,000. The estimate assumes an original selling price of $76,350. Pyle said the Jeep Renegade and Fiat 500 share the same chassis and the need for repairs. 'Not so much the cost of the repairs, but the frequency in which they are needed,' Pyle said. 'For many, these cars spend more time sitting in a car lot waiting for repairs compared to being driven trouble-free.' Edmunds Car Review rated the 2023 Jeep Renegade a 6 out of 10 in terms of value. 'The Renegade is one of the most expensive vehicles in its class,' Edmunds reviewers said. 'That might be OK if you got lots of features and value for the price, but you don't. Interior build quality is fine, but there's nothing exceptional inside and it feels like you're paying a lot of for the rough-and-tumble Jeep styling.' The 2023 Fiat 500x fared a little better than the Jeep Renegade, earning a 7 out of 10 value score from Edmunds reviewers. The testers liked the 'soft-touch materials' and matching body-color panels. However, reviewers disliked the expensive price tag and 'charmless accessory sounds.' 'Changing those (price tag and accessory sounds) would go a long way to elevate the feel of this car,' Edmunds reviewers said. The next group of cars Pyle wouldn't buy were the Ford Fiesta, Nissan cars, and small SUVs. 'The dual-clutch transaxle and the CVT (Continuous Variable Transaxles) do not hold up,' Pyle said. 'Once they fail, you are looking at very expensive repair costs and that most independent shops will not take on. So, they have to go to the dealer.' Since 2012, the Ford Fiesta has been the subject of numerous lawsuits because the car company knew about the Fiesta's PowerShift transmission (dual-clutch transaxle) and sold it anyway. Owners reported having the same problems, even after replacing clutches, output shafts, and entire transmissions. Similarly, owners of various Nissan models between 2013 and 2018 filed complaints with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), claiming that the faulty CVT transmissions caused 'shuddering and acceleration delays that could lead to collisions.' The reviewers at rated the Jeep Grand Cherokee average in terms of dependability. 'It received a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 from RepairPal and ranked 15thout of the 26 midsize SUVs reviewed based on data from different model years,' said Lisa Conant, writing for the online provider of aftermarket auto parts. Pyle listed a number of reasons why he wouldn't buy a Jeep Grand Cherokee. 'They are plagued with high-cost repairs, premature parts failure from bad manufacturing, and they want too much to purchase the vehicle when new,' Pyle said. 'If you plan to purchase a new one, before the warranty is over, make sure to purchase an extended warranty.' More From GOBankingRates Mark Cuban Says Trump's Executive Order To Lower Medication Costs Has a 'Real Shot' -- Here's Why This article originally appeared on I'm a Mechanic: 9 Cars I Would Never Buy & Why They Aren't Worth It
Yahoo
14-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
6 Pickup Trucks That Are Having Massive Price Drops in Early 2025
Planning to buy a pickup truck in the next few months? Your timing couldn't be better. While new vehicle prices typically hold steady or creep up each year, several popular pickup models are bucking the trend with significant price drops expected in early 2025. Industry experts point to a combination of factors behind these unusual early-year, money-saving discounts: dealerships clearing out leftover 2024 inventory, manufacturers responding to sluggish sales and strategic positioning of certain models. Here are the trucks to watch if you're hunting for a deal this winter. In contrast, here are the vehicles you want to steer clear of during wintertime. Be Aware: Check Out: The Silverado is poised for major incentives on remaining 2024 models as Chevy makes room for redesigned 2025 versions. According to automotive expert Chris Pyle of JustAnswer, 'The Chevy Silverado 1500 tops the list' of vehicles with substantial cash-back offers on leftover models. Dealerships are expected to offer significant discounts on these trucks to clear inventory, making early 2025 an excellent time to negotiate a deal on this popular full-size pickup. For You: Jeep's pickup hasn't quite matched sales expectations, creating the perfect storm for big discounts. With 2024 models still occupying valuable lot space, Jeep is offering aggressive incentives to move these trucks. 'The Jeep Gladiator tops that list' of vehicles with significant cash-back offers, Pyle said. Watch for dealerships to offer substantial price reductions by February, especially on higher-trim models. Electric vehicle (EV) prices are falling across the board and Ford's electric F-150 isn't immune. After price adjustments throughout 2024, Pyle said the Lightning is expected to see another substantial drop in early 2025 as Ford works to boost lagging sales and compete with newer EV truck offerings. Look for notable price cuts on select configurations within the first quarter, making this a great time for buyers interested in electric trucks. The Sierra AT4 is already selling 'a couple hundred less than it was in 2024,' according to Pyle. What makes this noteworthy is that it's unusual for a new model year to be cheaper than its predecessor right out of the gate. When combined with dealer incentives, buyers could see decent price reductions that make this premium truck more accessible by March. With an all-new Ram 1500 arriving for 2025, the outgoing 'Classic' model is prime for clearance pricing. Dealers will be motivated to move these trucks quickly, with discounts expected to be among the deepest in the segment. Watch for advertised discounts off MSRP, with additional negotiating room at many dealerships as they clear space for newer models. Honda's unique unibody pickup is already offering incentives earlier than usual. 'The Honda Ridgeline has a $500 cash-back rebate in 2025,' Pyle explained, which is just the beginning of what's expected to be increasingly aggressive pricing as Honda works to claim a larger share of the pickup market. Industry watchers expect the total discounts to grow as we move further into the first quarter. While manufacturers typically wait until later in the year for major incentives, these six trucks present rare opportunities for early-2025 bargain hunters. As always, timing is everything — and the first quarter of 2025 looks to be an unusually good time to score a deal on a new pickup. More From GOBankingRatesHow Paychecks Would Look in Each State If Trump Dropped Federal Income TaxHow Far $750K Plus Social Security Goes in Retirement in Every US Region This article originally appeared on 6 Pickup Trucks That Are Having Massive Price Drops in Early 2025
Yahoo
09-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
4 Affordable Car Brands You Won't Regret Buying in 2025
Finding a reliable and affordable car should be a top priority when looking for a new set of wheels — you want a vehicle that won't cost a lot upfront or hit you with expensive repairs down the road. Be Aware: Learn More: Look for 'vehicles that get great MPG, serve a purpose or a rare vehicle will retain the most value,' said Chris Pyle, auto expert at JustAnswer. 'Research a used car on to see how much value the car loses for each year of age.' The good news is that with the right research and guidance, you can find a car that ticks all the boxes of everything from safety features to adaptive cruise control. You want to choose an affordable brand that won't lose its worth or its driving dynamics too quickly. GOBankingRates spoke to automotive experts to find out which brands have the best cars to buy in 2025. Toyota was at the top of the experts' list for affordable, dependable cars that keep their value. A variety of models are built to last with great cargo space and sleek design. 'Overall, Toyota always emerges as the top choice for buyers seeking inexpensive cars,' said Evaldas Zabitis, automotive expert at carVertical. 'Firstly, it offers the broadest range of affordable cars on the market, and some even come equipped with very fuel-efficient hybrid powertrains, all without exceeding $30,000. 'A second advantage is Toyota's consistent reliability record across several generations of different models, which minimizes maintenance costs… Finally, when it comes to purchasing an affordable Toyota, it's very rare to encounter dealers who overcharge above the MSRP.' Jamie Mitri, manager at Cumberland Hill Auto Sales and Service, agreed that Toyotas are great cars that will last. 'You may be making a bit of an investment at first, but their parts and maintenance is top notch and affordable, and you won't regret the purchase,' she said. 'They are the best value car that we can think of.' Brian Moody, executive editor at Kelley Blue Book, recommended the Toyota Corolla, a longtime favorite among budget-conscious buyers. It's still a top choice for its impressive fuel efficiency and reliable performance. 2025 Toyota Corolla 2025 Toyota RAV4 2025 Toyota Sienna 2025 Toyota Camry Find Out: Ford has been known as an affordable and iconic American brand for decades, thanks to its rugged trucks and practical family vehicles offering roomy interior space. In 2025, Ford continues to be a trusted choice for budget-conscious buyers. 'While Ford vehicles can get quite expensive, they offer a surprising amount of high-quality and affordable vehicles on the lower end,' said Nigel Tunnacliffe, co-founder and CEO of Coastline Academy. 'For example, the Ford Maverick — one of the brand's smaller trucks — offers impressive carrying capacity and torque, while also featuring a hybrid engine option for improved fuel economy. As far as trucks go, it offers some of the best consistent value for your money.' With the Maverick, you get the hauling power and performance of a truck without spending as much on gas, thanks to the hybrid option. Moody also recommended the Maverick, as well as the Bronco, as great, budget-friendly and high-performance options. 2025 Ford Bronco Sport 2025 Ford F-150 2025 Ford Explorer 2025 Ford Maverick Honda has long been synonymous with reliability and affordability, and the brand's 2025 base model lineup will save you money over the long haul. Whether you are looking for a low starting price or better gas mileage, there's a good chance Honda has got you covered. 'Honda offers a versatile lineup of vehicles within a competitive price range,' said Tunnacliffe. 'Their vehicles have a strong safety performance and good fuel efficiency, driving down long-term costs. The brand also offers a range of electric and hybrid vehicles, which, despite a higher upfront cost, allow for exceptional savings on fuel throughout their lifespan.' Moody recommended Honda as a brand that keeps a high resale value. He said that, generally speaking, they 'retain more of their original price over a five-year term than others.' He specifically recommended the Accord, a perennial favorite among compact car enthusiasts. 2025 Honda Accord Hybrid 2025 Honda HR-V Sport 2025 Hona Civic Hybrid While often overshadowed by larger automotive giants, Mazda has carved out a niche for itself as a brand that delivers affordable driving. 'Mazda has always been in the shadow of the bigger Japanese manufacturers,' said Zabitis. He added that even Mazda's most affordable models still feel luxurious. 'What's truly remarkable is that even the most affordable Mazdas are far from basic transportation,' he said. 'For about $25,000 to $27,000, Mazda offers a choice of refined, well-built vehicles with luxury car-like features, making them a very good value.' On top of that upscale feel, Mazdas are also low-cost to maintain over the long term. 'Furthermore, the affordable price also offers affordable maintenance,' said Zabitis. 'Like Toyota and its luxury division, Lexus, Mazdas proved to be among the most cost-effective car brands to maintain.' 2025 Mazda CX-50 2025 Mazda CX-5 2025 Mazda CX-90 Caitlyn Moorhead contributed to the reporting for this article. More From GOBankingRatesHow Paychecks Would Look in Each State If Trump Dropped Federal Income Tax10 Genius Things Warren Buffett Says To Do With Your Money This article originally appeared on 4 Affordable Car Brands You Won't Regret Buying in 2025
Yahoo
08-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
I'm a Mechanic: 5 Common Issues With Japanese Cars That Could Cost You Big Money Later
Japanese cars are known for reliability, but that doesn't mean they don't have mechanical issues. In fact, some problems could sneak up on you and could cost you thousands of dollars. Whether you own a Toyota, Honda, Mazda or Subaru, knowing common mechanical issues can help you prevent them before they drain money from your bank account. GOBankingRates spoke with Chris Pyle, auto mechanic and expert at JustAnswer, who shared five common issues with Japanese cars that could cost you big money down the road. Trending Now: Read Next: A well-maintained Japanese car could last for decades, but when the engine fails or jumps time, this could set you back for thousands. 'If the engine internally fails or jumps time. You're looking at a completely new engine needed, which can be in the $5,000 to $12,000 range,' Pyle said. Regular maintenance like oil changes and timing belt replacements can help prevent engine failure. Ignoring warning signs, such as unusual noises from the engine, could be the difference between a minor repair and a full engine replacement. For You: A failing transmission is one of the most costly repairs in a car. 'Many shops will not attempt to overhaul one of these and only offer a replacement. Also, some manufacturers do not even sell parts to overhaul them. This can run you $4,000 to $7,000,' he said. Be on the lookout for signs of a failing transmission, such as slipping gears, unusual noises or leaking transmission fluid and get your car checked as soon as you notice any of these. Your car's heating and air conditioning system might not seem like a critical component until it fails in extreme weather conditions. And if it's a major issue, you could be looking at a bill in the thousands. 'Electronic heating and air conditioning issues are common. These repairs are expensive and often the labor time needed to access and replace the parts is high,' Pyle added. Most vehicle entertainment systems, like radio, navigation and mobile connectivity, are locked into software, which can often be expensive to fix. 'When they do fail, you're stuck with only being able to use OEM parts and they're not cheap and sometimes hard to get. Radio-related repairs can be $800 to $2,000 for just one part plus the labor and programming needed,' Pyle explained. 'Wheels, although not a common failure or fixed part. It is when you're in a collision or impact a curb. A replacement OEM wheel can be in the $500 range,' Pyle said. If you regularly drive off-road or frequently park near high curbs, keep an eye out for minor wheel damage to prevent more costly replacements. More From GOBankingRates From 2%10 Genius Things Warren Buffett Says To Do With Your MoneyThis article originally appeared on I'm a Mechanic: 5 Common Issues With Japanese Cars That Could Cost You Big Money Later
