Shopping for a Used Luxury SUV? Avoid These 3 Models
When searching for a used luxury SUV, it’s essential to be aware of the potential issues that have plagued various models. Even premium brands can have safety-related defects, production problems, and other serious issues. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve identified three luxury SUVs to avoid when buying used.
Audi Q7: Expensive Repairs and Reliability Issues
The Audi Q7 is one luxury SUV to steer clear of when shopping for a used vehicle. Despite its premium features, the Q7 has a reputation for being costly to repair. According to What Car?, it placed last in their reliability survey of 12 seven-seater SUVs. Owners have reported electrical issues and engine problems, with repair work often taking over a week to complete. The 2017 model year is particularly troublesome, with several owners reporting oil consumption problems that led to expensive engine failures.
Land Rover Discovery: High Maintenance Costs and Reliability Concerns
The Land Rover Discovery is another luxury SUV to avoid when buying used. While it excels in off-roading capability, it has a history of frequent breakdowns and expensive repairs. According to Consumer Reports, Land Rover has a reputation for building SUVs that break down frequently and are costly to fix. The Discovery ranked ninth out of 12 seven-seater SUVs in What Car?’s 2024 reliability survey. Common issues include electrical faults, warning light problems, and infotainment system limitations, as well as parts availability and long repair times.
Tesla Model Y: Build Quality and Software Issues
The Tesla Model Y is a more car-like luxury SUV that still packs a punch. However, it has its own set of problems, primarily related to build quality. What Car? has received numerous reports of electronic glitches and hardware malfunctions, particularly with the Model Y’s sensors and infotainment system. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 33 recalls for the vehicle, with several related to safety components such as seat belts, steering, and brakes. Owners have also reported issues with rattling noises in the cabin and improperly fitted body and trim pieces. On Cars.com, only 61% of drivers recommend the Model Y, citing poor build quality and customer service.
By being aware of these potential issues, you can make a more informed decision when shopping for a used luxury SUV. While these models may have their strengths, their reliability and build quality concerns make them worth avoiding.
