We Asked Three Mechanics What Cars They’d Never Own. Here’s What They Said
It’s one thing to read online reviews or compare spec sheets. But when it comes to choosing a car that won’t cause you headaches down the track, mechanics tend to see things a little differently.
They’re the ones who deal with the cars that break, the ones that cost thousands to fix, and the ones that leave drivers stranded with warning lights and repair bills that seem to come out of nowhere. So we figured it was worth asking a few of them what they really thought.
We spoke to three experienced mechanics in independent Brisbane workshops and asked one simple question: What car would you personally never buy?
Here’s what they said, and why.
1. George – 20+ Years in European Cars
Would never own: First-gen Range Rover Evoque
“Don’t get me wrong, they’re nice to look at. But the early Evoques were plagued with problems. We had them coming in with all sorts of electronic faults, transmission issues, and turbo problems. I’ve worked on European cars most of my life and I actually like a good Land Rover when they’re looked after. But that first Evoque was just badly built. Parts are expensive, they’re a pain to diagnose, and they chew through your wallet after about 100,000 kilometres if you haven’t stayed on top of everything. I wouldn’t touch one unless it was a giveaway.”
2. Mel – Workshop Owner and Diesel Specialist
Would never own: Jeep Grand Cherokee CRD (pre-2015)
“I know people love the look of them and they feel like good value when you compare the spec list. But the diesel versions, especially the older ones, are an absolute headache. We’ve had more of them in for engine lights, EGR faults and electrical gremlins than just about any other SUV. Even basic things like injector seals and turbo issues can become expensive jobs. They’re okay while they’re under warranty, but once they’re out, things get very expensive very fast. I’d rather something boring but reliable.”
3. Tom – General Mechanic and Family Car Specialist
Would never own: Any dual-clutch small car with a dry DSG
“Especially the ones from Volkswagen and Ford. The idea was good — better fuel economy and faster shifting. But in practice, these dry clutch systems just don’t hold up in Aussie stop-start traffic. They overheat, they shudder, and the repair costs are ridiculous. You’ve got people thinking they’ve bought something modern and efficient, then they’re up for a $3,000 gearbox service a few years in. I’ve replaced clutches on cars with under 80,000 kilometres. Not worth it. If it’s got a dry dual-clutch, I steer well clear.”
So What Should You Buy?
To be fair, every car has its issues. Even the best-built vehicles will wear out eventually. But if there’s one takeaway here, it’s this. Buying a car based purely on looks or features without checking its long-term reliability can cost you big.
Talk to your local mechanic before you commit. Ask what they see coming through the workshop and what is known for causing trouble. It could save you thousands in the long run.
Got a car you regret buying? Let us know. We’re always keen to hear more horror stories from the road.
