Cars to Avoid Before You Waste Your Hard-Earned Cash

Buying a car is one of the biggest investments many Nigerians make after building a house. But while some vehicles give you value, durability, and prestige, others drain your pocket with endless repairs, poor resale value, and disappointing performance.

Also Read: Top 10 Strongest Cars of 2025: Powerful Machines on the Road

Before you part with millions of naira, RoadKing.ng has compiled a list of 11 cars you should think twice about before buying in 2025.

1. Nissan Pathfinder (2005–2012 Models)

The Nissan Pathfinder from 2005 to 2012 is the third generation (R51) of the model, featuring a body-on-frame construction, standard V6 engine, five-speed automatic transmission, and three-row seating in a body-on-frame construction.

• Why Avoid: Engine timing chain failure, poor fuel efficiency, and expensive parts.
• Verdict: Looks rugged but breaks your wallet.

2. Kia Rio (2010–2015 Models)

The Kia Rio models from 2010 to 2015 encompass a facelifted second-generation (2010-2011) with styling and feature updates and the all-new third generation (2012-2015), which offered a global model (UB) with improved fuel economy and a more contemporary design, plus a choice of sedan and hatchback body styles powered by 1.6L engines.

Why Avoid: Transmission problems and weak build quality.

• Verdict: Cheap upfront, costly long-term.

3. Toyota Sienna (2004–2008 Models)

The Toyota Sienna (2004–2008) is a spacious and versatile minivan known for its comfortable and flexible interior, available with three-row seating, and the option of front-wheel or all-wheel drive. It was offered in various trim levels, including the base CE, the popular LE, the well-equipped XLE, and the luxurious XLE Limited.

• Why Avoid: Frequent gearbox issues and suspension headaches.
• Verdict: Popular in Nigeria, but older models are ticking time bombs.

4. Ford Explorer (2002–2010 Models)

• Why Avoid: Transmission failures and electrical faults.
• Verdict: American SUV that guzzles fuel and demands constant repairs.

5. Hyundai Elantra (2013–2017 Models)

The Hyundai Elantra 2013–2017 models represent the fifth generation of the compact sedan, offering a value-focused package with good fuel economy and a comfortable, well-controlled ride.

• Why Avoid: Engine knock issues, poor resale value.
• Verdict: Stylish outside, trouble inside.

6. Peugeot 407 (2004–2010 Models)

The Peugeot 407 is a large family car produced from 2004 to 2010, replacing the Peugeot 406 and available as a sedan, estate (SW), and coupé.

• Why Avoid: Expensive parts, electrical gremlins, weak resale value.
• Verdict: Comfortable but financially draining.

7. Jeep Cherokee (2010–2016 Models)

The 2010 model year is the final year of the Liberty model, which had been renamed to Cherokee in some markets, while the KL generation of the Jeep Cherokee was introduced in 2014, with models ranging from the 2014 to 2016 years.

• Why Avoid: Transmission recalls, high maintenance, poor fuel economy.
• Verdict: Attractive but unreliable in Nigerian conditions.

8. Honda Accord (2008–2012 Models, “End of Discussion”)

The term “Honda Accord (2008–2012 Models, ‘End of Discussion’)” refers to a specific generation of the Honda Accord, particularly in Nigerian used car markets, where it is colloquially known as the “End of Discussion” or “EOD” model.

• Why Avoid: Popular but plagued by gear failures and suspension breakdowns.
• Verdict: Notorious “mechanic’s delight” in Nigeria.

9. Volkswagen Passat (2011–2015 Models)

The 2011–2015 Volkswagen Passat primarily refers to the seventh-generation B7 model (B7, 2010-2015), a D-segment large family car available in sedan and wagon body styles with front-wheel and all-wheel drive (4motion) options.

• Why Avoid: Expensive DSG gearbox repairs, poor after-sales support in Nigeria.
• Verdict: Good drive, terrible maintenance.

10. Lexus RX 300 (1999–2003 Models)

The 1999–2003 Lexus RX 300 is the first generation of the RX luxury crossover series, known for its on-road focus, comfort, and quiet ride.

• Why Avoid: Transmission issues and outdated safety features.
• Verdict: Old luxury, modern liability.

11. Range Rover Sport (2006–2012 Models)

The Range Rover Sport produced from 2006 to 2012 is a luxury SUV, known for its powerful engine options, including V8 petrol and diesel engines, a full-time four-wheel-drive system, and a sophisticated Terrain Response system for optimized off-road capability.

• Why Avoid: Air suspension nightmares, electrical issues, poor reliability.
• Verdict: Prestige on the road, punishment in the workshop.

RoadKing’s Advice

Not every shiny car is worth your money. Before buying any used or imported vehicle, do thorough checks, confirm availability of parts, and consult trusted mechanics. Remember, a bad car will drain your hard-earned cash faster than Nigerian fuel price hikes.