Problem Cars with Issues Revealed by Mechanic

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Here’s your chance to discover what models are ticking timebombs that you should take care of (i.e., defuse) before it becomes a problem car for you.

Your Future Problem Car

Is your car destined to become a problem in the near future? It’s possible, if you own any one of the models covered in a recent Car Wizard YouTube channel episode where the host covers some of the cars he comes across for repairs that he says have inherent problems that are very expensive to repair.

However, there is hope. If you take care of the potential problem issue with some preventive maintenance and/or recommended replacement of parts before it becomes an actual problem, you can save both your vehicle and your wallet from a significant loss.  

Related article: Ford EcoBoost Engine Oil Breakdown Problem

 

Models with Problems a Mechanic Sees

Follow along with the host as he goes over the problems he continually sees in some models in his shop and what you should do about them. In the video the models he covers include:

  • Audi and any VW with the 2.0 Liter VW engine with the TSI (turbocharged stratified injected) turbo engine.
  • GM “Dustbuster” Vans with plastic coolant elbows.
  • Dodge Ram 2500 trucks with cheap plastic actuator doors that break requiring expensive dash removal.
  • Ford Triton trucks with the 5.4L 3 valve engine requiring total engine replacement when oil is not changed often enough.
  • GM’s Traverse and Enclave with the 3.6L engine prone to having timing chain problems.
  • Several Ferrari models with timing belt issues.
  • Mercedes SL500 with numerous faults including motor mounts.
  • Any Chrysler with Displacement on Demand that is guaranteed to eventually fail and take your engine out.
  • GM vehicles with Active Fuel Management (AFM) system that can cause damage. However, fortunately can be software deleted to protect your vehicle.
  • Land Rover Discovery I and II prone to blown head gaskets.
  • First generation Dodge Viper with overheating issues and poor rear brakes.
  • Any car with a CVT type transmission which also are prone to grenade on you if not maintained often!
  • Porsche 911 (type 996) with the notorious engine-destroying intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing issue.

The Value of This Video

The value of this video is that if you own one of the aforementioned models you can have some preventive maintenance work done ahead of time to avoid expensive repairs. Plus, if you find one for sale, these points about inherent problems can help you negotiate a lower price before buying one.

That said, watch the video for more details about these problem cars and find out how to head off these problems before they can (and will) happen to you.

Related article: Easy Toyota RAV4 DIY Fix That Can Save You Hundreds of Dollars

And finally…

For more about car maintenance and repair warnings, here are a few selected articles for your consideration and enjoyment:

 

Timothy Boyer is Torque News automotive reporter based in Cincinnati. Experienced with early car restorations, he regularly restores older vehicles with engine modifications for improved performance. Follow Tim on Twitter at @TimBoyerWrites for new and used vehicle news.

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