6 used cars to Never, Ever Buy according to the 20+ years of CAR WIZARD mechanic experience!

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Avoid These 6 Used Cars at All Costs

Introduction: Welcome to this step-by-step tutorial on avoiding 6 used cars that you should never, ever buy, as discussed in the video "6 used cars to Never, Ever Buy according to the 20+ years of CAR WIZARD mechanic experience!" by Car Wizard.

Step 1: Avoid Ford Vehicles with 5.4 Triton V8 (2004-2010)

• Stay away from Ford F-150, Expedition, and F-250 models from 2004 to 2010 with the 5.4 Triton V8 engine.
• These vehicles are prone to cam phaser and timing chain issues due to lack of maintenance, leading to costly repairs.
• Consider other options to avoid potential engine problems and expensive fixes.

Step 2: Steer Clear of GM Vehicles with 3.6 Liter V6

• Avoid any GM vehicle, such as Acadia, Enclave, Traverse, Equinox, and Terrain, with the 3.6 liter V6 engine.
• These cars commonly face timing chain troubles and may require expensive repairs if not maintained properly.
• Opt for a Toyota or Honda instead to avoid future headaches and costly repairs.

Step 3: Check Engine Package and VIN

• To identify the engine in a car, check the registration, sales documents, or the emissions label under the hood.
• Google your car's year, make, and model to find out the engine options available for that specific vehicle.
• Use the VIN number to look up the engine details and ensure you are aware of any potential issues associated with it.

Step 4: Avoid European Cars with Over 150,000 Miles

• Stay away from European cars like Mercedes, BMW, Land Rover, and Jaguar with over 150,000 miles.
• These cars may require frequent repairs and maintenance, leading to significant financial burdens over time.
• Consider the long-term costs before purchasing a high-mileage European vehicle.

Step 5: Beware of GM Vehicles with 3.1 or 3.4 V6 Engines

• Avoid any General Motors vehicle with a 3.1 or 3.4 V6 engine due to common head gasket or intake manifold issues.
• Ensure proper maintenance to prevent coolant leaks into the oil, which can lead to engine damage and costly repairs.
• Check for gunky oil or milky appearance in the oil to detect potential issues before making a purchase.

Step 6: Stay Away from Vehicles with AFM or MDS Systems

• Avoid trucks or SUVs with Active Fuel Management (AFM) or Multi-Displacement System (MDS) like the 5.7 or 6.4 Hemi engines with MDS.
• These systems can fail, causing engine damage and requiring expensive repairs involving cylinder deactivation mechanisms.
• Consider the potential repair costs and maintenance requirements before buying a vehicle with AFM or MDS.

Step 7: Avoid Early 2000 Subarus Due to Head Gasket Issues

• Stay clear of early 2000 Subarus known for head gasket problems that can lead to overheating and engine damage.
• Check for brown or gray gunk in the coolant reservoir and overheating issues to detect blown head gaskets.
• Ensure the head gasket issue has been resolved by a reputable shop before considering purchasing an early 2000 Subaru.

Conclusion: By following these steps and avoiding the mentioned car models and engine types, you can make a more informed decision when purchasing a used vehicle. Remember to prioritize maintenance and research to prevent costly repairs in the future.