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There are a lot of things to consider when buying a used car — not the least of which is the honesty of the seller; but  the most important thing to consider when buying  a used car is the reliability record of the make and model.  To help us with that, CBS MoneyWatch looked at owner surveys, J.D. Power ratings and Consumer Report ratings in 5 car catgories to see which cars had less-than-stellar reliability records and to offer some more reliable alternatives. 

Small Car Category: 

Avoid:  The Volkswagen Beetle — Owners reported problems with the climate control system and power equipment, both of which can lead to expensive repairs. 

Alternative:   Hyundai Elantra — Owners reported no major problems; and the Elantra got the maximum rating from J.D. Power, and is ranked above-average by Consumer Reports. 

Midsize Car Category:

Avoid:  Volkswagen Passat — Consumers reported problems with the fuel, electrical and climate systems, as well as the power equipment.

Alternative:   The Ford Fusion — Fusion won the reliability award in this year’s J.D. Power survey, and Consumer Reports gives it a much-above-average used car rating.

Midsize SUV Category:

Avoid:   GMC Acadia — Owners reported  problems with the suspension and audio systems, and J.D. Power and Consumer Reports both gave it their lowest used car rating.

Alternative:   Toyota 4 Runner — the 4 Runner won J.D. Power’s top reliability award, and Consumer Reports rated it much better than average as a used car.  Owners liked its highway and off-road capability.

Large SUV Category:

Avoid:  The Ford Expedition — Owners reported problems with the transmission and audio systems, and its best gas efficiency is only 18 mpg.  J.D. Powers and Consumer Reports both gave it a low used-car rating.

Alternative:   Toyota Sequoia — While just slightly better on fuel efficiency, the Sequoia gets a high rating from both J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.  Owners liked its roomy seating and comfortable ride for long trips.

Minivan Category:

Avoid:  Chrysler Town & Country — Although very popular as a new car, owners reported problems with suspension, brakes, climate system and power equipment.   J.D. Power and Consumer Reports both rated it low as a used-car purchase.

Alternative:  Toyota Sienna — The Sienna won the reliability award for minivans from J.D Power, and it got a better-than-average rating from Consumer Reports.

In addition to the tips above, it’s often wiser to purchase a 3+ year old used car for a couple of reasons.  The biggest new-car depreciation has already taken place, and with new car prices rising sharply, buying a 1 or 2 year old used car often make worse financial sense than buying new.

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