Buying used is about value, and these cars represent the opposite. They might look like a bargain today, but they usually demand a high price in repairs tomorrow.
Luxury cars aren't exempt. The BMW X5 from 2011 to 2014 is a prime example of a vehicle that is cheap to buy but impossible to own. Once the warranty expires, issues with the cooling system, oil leaks, and complex electronics turn this SUV into a massive liability.
The Ford Focus and Fiesta (2011-2016) with the PowerShift dual-clutch transmission are perhaps the most famous "no-go" cars. The transmission design was fundamentally flawed, leading to jerky acceleration and repeated, expensive clutch replacements. Even after multiple recalls, many units still struggle.