Buying a new car is a big financial decision, so most people spend hours researching different models to find the best combination of price and performance.
But unfortunately, there are some vehicles that disappoint their owners more than others — which is why that research is so crucial.
Read more: 10 vehicles that owners keep for 10 years or longer
New report: Owners regret buying these 7 cars
Consumer Reports asked owners of 2014 to 2017 model-year vehicles if they would buy the same car again. The good news is that 70% were happy with their choice. However, that means 30% wish they could have a do-over.
Out of more than 300,000 responses to Consumer Reports’ owner satisfaction survey, here are the seven vehicles that owners regret buying the most:
Small SUV: Jeep Compass
Complaints from owners: Weak acceleration, noisy, cramped cabin, narrow front seats and difficult rearward views.
Midsized SUV: Nissan Pathfinder
“Frankly, it lacks off-road ruggedness and is boring to drive,” Consumer Reports said.
Small car: Dodge Dart
Complaints from owners: Uncomfortable seating, poor air conditioning and stiff ride.
Midsized sedan: Chrysler 200
“It would be generous to say Chrysler’s 200 is mediocre—clumsy handling, an unsettled ride, and an underwhelming base four-cylinder engine make it feel sorely outdated,” Consumer Reports said.
Minivan: Dodge Grand Caravan
Complaints from owners: Transmission shifts roughly, uncomfortable second-row seats and cheap interior.
Pickup truck: Nissan Frontier
The high levels of road noise, clumsy steering, and difficulty maneuvering in parking lots bothered respondents,” Consumer Reports said.
Least-satisfying overall: Acura ILX
Complaints from owners: Lacks acceleration, loud road nose, poor paint quality and shaky ride.
Four vehicles on the list are made by Chrysler, which was ranked by Consumer Reports as one of the least reliable car brands in 2016.
In addition to researching the best cars to buy, bring someone along for your test drive so that they can help you spot potential red flags, whether they’re related to the car’s performance or just comfort.
For more information, read Clark’s guides to buying a new car and a used car.
