Buying a used car can be a cost-effective option, but it’s important to be cautious when purchasing locally used cars.
Some models are more prone to issues and should be avoided.
It’s crucial to thoroughly inspect any used car, research its history, and test drive it before making a purchase to ensure you don’t end up with a lemon.
By being an informed buyer, you can find a reliable, well-maintained used car that fits your budget and needs.
In this article, WoK looks at five locally used cars that buyers should steer clear of, according to experts.
5. Mazda CX5
The Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover SUV that offers an excellent combination of performance, handling and fuel efficiency.
The CX-5 is available with two engine options – a 2.5L naturally aspirated four-cylinder that produces 187 hp and a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder that makes 256 hp.
Both engines come paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission and can be had with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive.
The CX-5 is praised for its engaging driving dynamics, with precise steering, composed handling and a comfortable ride quality that belies its affordable price point.
However, Erick Wokabi of Carnversations, warned buyers from goung for this option, particularly the diesel variant over its overheating issues.
“These cars came with a weak head gasket that leads to overheating with time, so if you get this car being sold for a good deal, run away from it,” he said.
4. Mitsubishi Galant 1800cc GDI
The Mitsubishi Galant was a popular sedan produced from 1969 to 2012.
The 1800cc GDI model was powered by a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine with direct injection (GDI), producing 138 bhp (140 PS/103 kW) at 6000 rpm and 181 Nm (133 lb-ft) of torque at 3750 rpm.
It had a front-wheel-drive layout with a 4-speed automatic transmission.
The Galant 1800 GDI was known for its combination of performance, fuel efficiency and affordability, making it a popular choice in many markets, especially in Kenya.
For this car, Wokabi described it as a ‘ticking time bomb’, warning that many users would find it problematic due to carbon build up in the cylinders.
“GDI stands for Direct Gasoline Injection, and the first direct injection engines used to have a lot of carbon build up in the cylinders… That’s why if you get someone selling these cars they will be going for a throwaway price,” he said.
3. Nissan Bluebird Sylphy KG11
The Nissan Bluebird Sylphy KG11 is a model of the second-generation Nissan Sylphy, which was produced from 2005 to 2012.
It features a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout and is based on the Nissan B platform.
The KG11 model has a wheelbase of 2,700 mm, a length of 4,610 mm, and a width of 1,695 mm. It is powered by a 2,000cc engine and comes with a CVT transmission.
Wokabi rules out this car for its overheating issues and gearbox which he says is not very reliable compared to other models.
“The older KG11 Sylphy had a crappy build quality so when you park it in the sun, the dashboard is likely to bubble up and it will look hideous
“Also the gearbox is not very reliable, so if you have a KG11 Sylphy, chances are you have already changed the gearbox or the gearbox is bugging you,” he shared.
2. Nissan Serena
The Nissan Serena is a minivan manufactured by Nissan. It was first launched in 1991 as a compact passenger van and has grown larger with each generation.
The Serena is designed to comply with Japanese vehicle class size restrictions, with dimensions limited to 4.7 meters in length and 1.7 meters in width.
The Serena is available in both front-wheel drive and 4WD configurations, and has been offered with a variety of engine options including gasoline, diesel and hybrid powertrains.
The most popular version was the 2.3L diesel engine model, which featured an unusual eight-seat layout instead of the typical seven seats.
However, according to Wokabi, buyers should stay away from this model due to its overheating issues caused by its gearbox.
“When you are driving them, the car builds an extra continuously variable transmission (CVT) and with an insufficient cooling system, the continuously variable transmission fluid (CVTF) overheats causing the car to stall or lose power,” he shared.
1. Nissan Navara Double Cab
The Nissan Navara Double Cab is a capable and versatile pickup truck that can handle a variety of tasks and adventures.
It features a powerful 2.5-liter diesel engine that produces up to 140kW and 450Nm of torque, allowing it to tow heavy loads and tackle challenging terrain.
The Navara Double Cab has a generous payload capacity of up to 1,086 kg, making it suitable for both work and leisure activities.
It comes equipped with advanced safety features like Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Emergency Braking and Lane Departure Warning to keep you and your passengers safe on the road.
The interior of the Navara Double Cab is designed for comfort and convenience, with features like heated seats, dual-zone climate control and a 360-degree Around View Monitor for easy parking and maneuverability.
However, for Wokabi, this is the most unreliable car due to its overheating and engine problems that will lead to numerous replacements of the head gasket.
“It’s very powerful while new, it is very good but if you really want to go for a Nissan Navara, you would rather go for a car that is not a dual cab or just go for another alternative,” he advised.
