10 Used Fords We Wouldn’t Touch With A 10-Foot Pole

Used Fords allow you to save a penny while getting most of the features that you’d want in a car.

10/10
2019 Ford Ranger

For the 2019 model, the Ford Ranger appeared to have crossed all the Ts and dotted all the Is. The 2019 model year came equipped with a 2.3-liter 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission. The 4-cylinder produced a respectable 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.

However, some models had niggling build quality issues and teething problems like excessive wind noise in the cabin, misaligned rear passenger door, and door panel noises. As for the suspension, some owners complained about the Ranger leaning more to the driver’s side.

9/10
2014 Ford Fiesta

The Fiesta was one of the best small cars from Ford. It was available as a hatchback and sedan. Even though Ford ended its production in 2019, it warmed the hearts of many. That’s due to its economical and fun-to-drive nature.

However, while it might sound like a good buy within the used market, the 2014 model year is one to avoid. It had many issues with the transmission, door latch, and rear axle. As for the transmission, owners experienced slipping, delayed engagement, and the car stalling.

8/10
2018 Ford F-150

Upon announcing the F-150, Ford made a huge splash in the pickup truck market. Even though the 2018 F-150 was the best-selling truck, it had a few problems that made it unusable for most owners. It had 15 recalls, making it a model to avoid within the used market.

The most recent of these recalls included a loss of brake fluid. This resulted in a change in brake pedal travel, reduced front brake function, and increased pedal effort. While it might seem like an issue to get around, the brake changes could easily lead to a crash. Additional faults included unexpected tailgate openings, exterior lighting problems, and faulty seatbelts.

7/10
2017 Ford Explorer

The Explorer has been a great midsized SUV within the Ford lineup. It shared its underpinnings with the Ford Flex, a car-based vehicle that some praised for its space, comfort, ride, and quietness. The Explorer has had great points, including a usable third row and a roomy, practical interior.

The 2017 version had ten recalls, making it a car to avoid within the used market. It had minor issues like a loose roof rail and major problems like a rear-toe link fracture that could lead to a loss of steering control. Additional issues included wheel separation because of the lack of a self-retention feature and heat shield problems that could cause the steering gear to overheat.

6/10
2018 Ford Expedition

The 2018 Expedition was a giant leap forward for Ford since it had a new redesign, lost some weight, and added convenience, comfort, and optional safety features. Ford offered the Expedition in two lengths, with the longer version, the MAX, being about a foot longer than the standard model.

During this time, the Expedition had six recalls, with most revolving around the seats and powertrain. The second-row seats were missing reinforcement brackets that could allow the seat to move in the event of a crash. In addition, the 10-speed automatic transmission would experience a loss of the “Park” function because of the failure of the brand to install a rolling pin.

5/10
2012 Ford Edge

Within the used market, the Edge has a reasonable price, with some models selling for around $7,000. Among the reasons, most people consider the Edge is its remarkable interior space, energetic engines, and easy access.

However, the overall package falls short because of mediocre driving dynamics and refinement. The 2012 Ford Edge had MyFord Touch controls that forced drivers to take their eyes off the road. Even though it only had three recalls, all of them were dire. They included fuel leaks that could cause fires and the link shaft and half shaft disengaging while driving.

4/10
2020 Ford Escape

Ford redesigned the Escape for the 2020 model year. It morphed into a curvier vehicle, looking more like a raised hatchback than most crossovers. Ford also added new powertrains, advanced safety features, and elaborate interior technology.

However, even with all its niceties, the 2020 Ford Escape had ten recalls. While a recall about rearward visibility isn’t a big deal for most people, the Escape had larger issues. Among these were electrical system misfunctions where there would be a loss of drive power.

3/10
2019 Ford EcoSport

While the EcoSport has tiny-looking wheels and goofy styling, it boasts nimble handling. It drives more like a sporty vehicle than most dull SUVs. Drivers can enjoy taking corners quickly, thanks to its ample steering feedback.

However, even with its excellent handling, the EcoSport doesn’t have enough power to match. Most owners experience engine problems where the EcoSport takes long to speed up, even with their foot pinned on the pedal. Others complain about a loss of engine oil pressure thanks to a broken engine oil pump belt tensioner.

2/10
2012 Ford Focus

The Ford Focus has been a great vehicle for most people thanks to its sporty handling, well-done interior, and relatively low noise. Even though the 2012 variant wasn’t the fastest model, it had excellent fuel economy.

However, the Focus also had a few flaws that prevented it from being one of the best compact vehicles. The most problematic flaw was the PowerShift automatic transmission that would stumble at low speeds. Additional problems included breaking door latches, faulty clutches, and fuel system issues that could cause the engine to stall when driving.

1/10
2018 Ford Mustang

For the 2018 model year, Ford made significant improvements to the Mustang styling. The Mustang got revised front and rear styling, new high-tech options, revised powertrains, and an updated interior. Ford also got rid of the V6 engine in favor of a turbocharged 4-cylinder.

However, despite its impressive improvements, the 2018 Ford Mustang was one of the brand’s problem children. Like some of the brand’s 2018 models, the Mustang also had an issue where it would roll when in “Park.” In addition, the Mustang had fuel leak problems that increased the fire risk.

10 Most Expensive American Cars To Maintain And Repair

From beloved sports cars to large pickups, American manufacturers have sold their fair share of unreliable models.

We love American cars because of their classic and iconic design—for example, the Chevrolet Impala or the Ford Mustang. Most American manufacturers have rewarded enthusiasts by fitting powerful engines in their cars. These vehicles offer impressive performance for cruising down the highway, tearing the track, or tackling off-road terrain.

Many brands such as FordChevrolet, Dodge, and Jeep also have a long history and a devoted fan base, which adds to their appeal and nostalgia. In addition, American cars provide comfortable interiors and advanced technology features, making them a practical choice for daily driving. However, even with all their niceties, most cars tend to be a bit expensive to own. Here are 10 of the most expensive American cars to maintain and repair.

10/10
Tesla Model S – $10,528

With the variety and volume of Tesla vehicles on the market, it’s easy to forget that the Model S helped make the EV segment desirable. Tesla is one of those automotive brands that doesn’t follow a traditional refresh cadence. The Model S is a class-leading luxury electric sedan.

While the latest model boasts the controversial yoke steering wheel, Tesla enthusiasts are still waiting for the time the brand will integrate Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Even though it’s an EV, the Model S is one of the most expensive American cars to maintain and repair thanks to its requirement of specialized parts and use of advanced technology.

9/10
Ford F-250 Super Duty – $8,326

The Super Duty F-250 nameplate has been around since the 1950s. Since its inception, the Super Duty F-250 has been a do-it-all machine for truckers with hardcore needs. The modern Super Duty F-250 continues with its legacy by offering impressive off-road capabilities, diesel engines, and shouldering huge loads.

8/10
Cadillac CT5 – $8,157

The CT5 is Cadillac’s luxury sports sedan. It’s for enthusiasts who yearn for a good value vehicle. With a starting price of below $40,000, the CT5 can easily compete with more expensive rivals like the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6. The CT5 doesn’t skimp on amenities, thanks to Cadillac offering a generous selection of features like satellite radio, in-car Wi-Fi, and blind spot monitoring assist.

One drawback of the CT5 is its small trunk. Another is the steep cost of maintenance and repair. According to Edmunds, the CT5 will cost you $6,404 for maintenance and $1,753 for repairs. While these costs are for five years, rivals like the Lexus ES are much cheaper to maintain and repair.

7/10
Chevrolet Corvette – $6,802

The Corvette is one of the best American sports cars ever made. It boasts impressive handling, braking, and quick acceleration. Unlike most sports cars, the Corvette competes with vehicles costing almost twice as much. The secret is a mid-engine layout and a redesigned chassis.

The Corvette is a pleasant sports car that enthusiasts can comfortably drive daily. It boasts a pliant ride and spacious cabin. One of its downsides is the lack of a manual transmission option. In addition, like most sports cars, the Corvette is a bit expensive to maintain and repair.

6/10
Lincoln Aviator – $6,717

The Aviator is the next best thing if its larger sibling, the Navigator, is too big for you. The Aviator is the second largest vehicle from Lincoln after the Navigator. Like the Navigator, the Aviator offers ample space for up to seven passengers. It also boasts a stylish exterior, potent engines, and a plush cabin.

Over its three years of production, the Aviator remains largely unchanged. Lincoln offers five trim levels; Reserve, Standard, Black Label, Grand Touring, and Black Label Grand Touring. All these models are a joy to own and drive. However, they are a bit more expensive to own and maintain when compared to the brand’s flagship, the Navigator.

5/10
Cadillac Escalade – $6,544

Since its debut, the Cadillac Escalade has been the go-to SUV for enthusiasts looking for a bold, brash, luxurious SUV. The modern Escalade captures attention thanks to its chiseled exterior and plush cabin. It also delivers a lot of practicality thanks to having one of the roomiest third rows within the segment.

As standard, Cadillac offers the Escalade with a V8 engine. Even though the trade-off is fuel economy, the V8 provides enough power to move this behemoth of an SUV. Cadillac also offers a turbodiesel engine for more efficiency. Even though it’s a bit pricey to maintain and repair, owners can rest comfortably knowing that it’s cheaper than the Lincoln Aviator.

4/10
Jeep Grand Cherokee – $6,473

For the 2023 model year, Jeep will launch a Grand Cherokee that suits most families. Unlike its predecessor, the new Grand Cherokee offers two or three rows of seating. Jeep also provides efficient gas and hybrid engines, allowing owners to enjoy the Grand Cherokee fully.

However, even with all the niceties, the Grand Cherokee is still a bit pricier to maintain and repair. Repairs can cost you from $1,261, while maintenance is a bit more expensive at $5,212. While these figures cover 5 years, it’s still higher than some of Jeep’s models like the Wrangler.

3/10
Lincoln Navigator – $5,162

The Navigator is a luxury SUV that sits at the pinnacle of the Lincoln Motor Company SUV lineup. It’s a rival to the Jeep Grand Wagoneer and Cadillac Escalade. Like its competition, the Navigator is available in two lengths. The L version offers a 9-inch longer wheelbase than the standard model.

With this, passengers get more cargo space behind the third row. The Navigator offers ample seating space for up to eight. Unlike the Cadillac, the Navigator gets a punchy and refined 440-hp twin-turbocharged V6. In addition, it has slightly lower maintenance and repair costs compared to the Escalade.

2/10
GMC Sierra 1500 – $5,141

The GMC Sierra 1500 is a full-size pickup truck with a well-appointed interior, roomy seats, and good capability. It boasts high tow ratings, enabling owners to carry plenty of cargo and tow with no worries. GMC offers plenty of luxurious trims for the Sierra 1500, making it the ideal pickup truck for most people.

The top trims of the GMC Sierra 1500 get plush materials, including rich leather and open-pore wood. GMC offers four engine options, including a diesel. The engine options make the Sierra 1500 a capable work truck, even though it’s a bit pricier to maintain and repair, unlike its competition.

1/10
Chevrolet Suburban – $4,895

When considering a large SUV, the first concern for most buyers is space. The Chevrolet Suburban nicely fits the needs of large families that need ample sitting space and cargo room. Besides having excellent interior conditions, the Suburban boasts a tow rating of up to 8,300 pounds.

Its offerings make it one of the best SUVs for long family trips to the campground or lake. Chevrolet also offers many trim levels and engine options, including a turbocharged diesel. Despite all the offerings, the Suburban is slightly pricey to maintain and repair. However, compared to competitors like the Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade, it’s the best option for a budget-conscious owner.