I'm a Mechanic and These 5 German Cars Are Never Worth Buying
Think German engineering means reliability?
While you may be right when it comes to many areas of design, it's not always the case. Even though German cars might look and feel stunning in the dealership test drive, some of them could leave you stranded — and break your budget. While many German vehicles are the epitome of precision and performance, some models are costlier than you'd expect once you factor in gas, maintenance and unexpected repairs.
We spoke with automotive expert Chris Pyle from JustAnswer to uncover which German cars may be more trouble than they're worth.
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Volkswagen Golf GTI
MSRP: $35,865 to $43,755
Though German automotive engineering is synonymous with the Volkswagen brand, this might not be the model for you.
"[The Golf GTI] is known for being tough to handle on the road and in evasive maneuvers," Pyle warned.
Even worse? He said it's "mentally tiring to drive on the interstate." Add in "expensive repairs that come about too often" and "common engine and transaxle failures," and you might want to golf elsewhere.
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Porsche Cayenne GTS
MSRP: $129,250+
You want to be the cool parent in the carpool lane, but this SUV-meets-sports car might make you cry instead. Yes, it's a luxury car capable of high speeds, with an all-wheel drive system and anti-lock brakes, but is it worth it?
Not if you ask Pyle, who cited this Porsche model's notoriety for engine and transmission troubles.
"When it fails, the parts are ridiculously high in cost," he said. To make matters worse, and perhaps explaining why, he noted that you may have trouble finding the parts at all.
Mercedes-Benz CLC
MSRP: $7,810 to $14,990 (model only produced from 2008 to 2011)
Nothing says "I've made it" like driving something from the German automaker Mercedes — until it leaves you stuck in the parking lot.
According to Pyle, the Mercedes-Benz CLC "has some strange brake-related issues that come up for no reason and no warning," and that's in addition to "problems with the shifter getting stuck and unable to move."
The cherry on top? Pyle warned that often, the repairs needed can only be done at the dealership.
Audi RS6 Avant
MSRP: $131,995+
The newest versions of the Audi RS6 Avant will cost a pretty penny. If you see one of these beauties being sold at an affordable price, there's probably a reason. (Hint: It's not a good one.)
Pyle didn't mince words when he said, "These can be found cheap, but that is because the previous owner is sick and tired of it. They spend more time in the shop than out driving. One thing after the other."
He added, "It seems like the repairs never stop, like the car does not want to be a good one."
Caitlyn Moorhead contributed to the reporting for this article.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or tax advice.
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