Buying a used SUV can seem like a savvy way to save money on a car. But even brands known for reliability, like Honda, Toyota, and Volvo, produced a few models that left owners less-than-happy. Here are five used SUVs with reliability issues that might surprise you, based on feedback from owners and data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and CarComplaints.com.

2015 Honda CR-V

Obviously, Honda has a reputation for dependable SUVs. The 2015 CR-V, however, is a rare miss. Owners frequently complain about rough idling and excessive engine vibrations, linked to the 2.4-liter engine and continuously variable transmission (CVT). This made driving uncomfortable and frustrating, especially in stop-and-go traffic. While Honda issued software updates to address the problem, many drivers felt the fixes were insufficient. Other complaints included issues with the air conditioning system and electrical components like the door locks.

2017 Toyota RAV4

Like Honda, Toyota is usually a top contender for reliability, but the 2017 RAV4 saw several complaints about its automatic braking system. Many drivers reported sudden, unnecessary braking triggered by the Collision Avoidance System. These events posed a real safety risk, especially at higher speeds. Additionally, some owners experienced infotainment system glitches, including freezing screens and unresponsive controls. Though Toyota attempted to fix these issues via software updates, many owners still found the systems unreliable.

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe

Hyundai’s SUVs have improved in quality, but the 2019 Santa Fe fell short due to engine-related problems. Per the NHTSA’s complaint log, Owners reported frequent knocking noises and stalling, often attributed to faulty fuel injectors. Some vehicles also suffered from excessive oil consumption, leading to engine overheating. Despite multiple recalls, some drivers faced significant repair costs. This model’s reputation was further tarnished by complaints of transmission hesitation during acceleration, a potentially dangerous issue when merging onto highways. As such, it makes our list of used SUVs you might approach with caution.

2016 Mazda CX-5

Mazda’s CX-5 often wins praise for its sporty performance, but the 2016 model came with quirks. Owners noted premature failure of the infotainment system, which might reboot mid-drive or fail to respond altogether. On the mechanical side, the vehicle’s SkyActiv engine was prone to carbon buildup, leading to reduced performance and higher maintenance costs. Issues with suspension components, such as noisy struts, also caused headaches for drivers.

2018 Volvo XC90

Volvo touts the XC90 as a luxurious, safe SUV, but the 2018 model year revealed troubling flaws. The plug-in hybrid variant, in particular, suffered from electrical gremlins, with owners reporting malfunctioning battery systems and frequent error messages. Additionally, the air suspension system often failed prematurely, leading to costly repairs. The model also faced complaints about a clunky infotainment system and unreliable navigation, making it less appealing for tech-savvy drivers.

Even reliable brands can produce problematic vehicles, especially when introducing new technology or components. Always research specific model years and review consumer complaints and recall histories before buying pre-owned. While we’re on the subject of buying used SUVs, MotorBiscuit has a seamless car buying tool you can hop into to compare models and find the best deal in your area. Finally, a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic can also help you avoid surprises.