automotive advice Archives - The Free Financial Advisor

When it comes to buying a used car, safety should always be at the top of your checklist. While a lower price tag can be tempting, some vehicles come with hidden risks that could put you and your loved ones in danger. Not all used cars are created equal—some have poor crash-test ratings, outdated safety features, or a troubling history of recalls. If you care about your safety, it’s crucial to know which models to avoid before you sign on the dotted line. Let’s break down the seven used cars you should steer clear of if you want peace of mind on the road.

1. Ford Fiesta

The Ford Fiesta has long been a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers, but its safety record leaves much to be desired. Older models, especially those from 2011 to 2017, have received low scores in crash tests and lack advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. The small size of the Fiesta also means less protection in the event of a collision. If safety is your priority, it’s wise to look for a used car with a stronger safety reputation and more robust crash protection.

2. Nissan Versa

The Nissan Versa is another compact car that often appears on used car lots due to its affordability. However, models from the early 2010s have been criticized for their poor crash-test performance and minimal standard safety equipment. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has given some Versa models low ratings for side-impact and small overlap front crashes. If you care about your safety, it’s better to invest in a vehicle with a more comprehensive suite of safety features and higher crash-test scores.

3. Chevrolet Aveo

The Chevrolet Aveo may seem like a practical choice for first-time buyers, but its safety shortcomings are hard to ignore. Many Aveo models lack stability control, side airbags, and other essential safety technologies. In government crash tests, the Aveo has consistently underperformed, especially in side-impact and rollover scenarios. If you’re shopping for a used car, prioritize models that offer better occupant protection and modern safety systems.

4. Dodge Journey

The Dodge Journey is a midsize SUV that might look sturdy, but appearances can be deceiving. Older Journeys, particularly those built before 2015, have a history of poor crash-test results and a lack of advanced driver-assistance features. The vehicle’s outdated design means it doesn’t offer the same level of protection as newer competitors. If you care about your safety, consider a used SUV with a more recent design and a proven safety track record.

5. Kia Rio

The Kia Rio is often marketed as an affordable and efficient subcompact, but its safety record is mixed at best. Early 2010s models, in particular, have received low marks in crash tests and are missing key safety features like electronic stability control and side curtain airbags. The Rio’s small size also puts occupants at greater risk in multi-vehicle collisions. For a safer ride, look for a used car that offers more comprehensive crash protection and up-to-date safety technology.

6. Jeep Patriot

The Jeep Patriot may appeal to those seeking a rugged, budget-friendly SUV, but its safety credentials are lacking. Many used Patriots, especially those from 2007 to 2017, have poor crash-test ratings and limited standard safety features. The lack of side airbags and stability control in some models is a significant concern. If you care about your safety, it’s best to avoid the Patriot and opt for a used SUV with a stronger safety profile.

7. Mitsubishi Mirage

The Mitsubishi Mirage is one of the most affordable cars on the used market, but its low price comes at the expense of safety. The Mirage has consistently received low scores in crash tests, particularly in side-impact and small overlap front crashes. It also lacks many of the advanced safety features that are now standard in newer vehicles. If you care about your safety, spending a little more on a used car with better crash protection and modern safety tech is a smart move.

Prioritize Safety Over Savings

Choosing a used car is a big decision, and while saving money is important, your safety should never take a back seat. The seven models listed above may be easy on your wallet, but they fall short when it comes to protecting you and your passengers. By avoiding these vehicles and focusing on used cars with strong safety ratings, advanced features, and a solid reputation, you can drive with greater confidence and peace of mind. Remember, the right used car is one that keeps you safe on every journey.

Have you ever owned a used car that made you question your safety? Share your story or advice in the comments below!

Can We Get By Without Big SUVs?

Travis Campbell

Travis Campbell is a digital marketer/developer with over 10 years of experience and a writer for over 6 years. He holds a degree in E-commerce and likes to share life advice he’s learned over the years. Travis loves spending time on the golf course or at the gym when he’s not working.

1. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

ABS is one of the most important car safety features, yet many drivers don’t realize how it works or how to use it correctly. ABS prevents your wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing you to maintain steering control. However, some drivers still pump the brakes in an emergency, thinking it will help. In reality, with ABS, you should press the brake pedal firmly and hold it down. The system will automatically pulse the brakes for you, helping you steer around obstacles while stopping as quickly as possible.

If you feel a rapid pulsing in the brake pedal, that’s the ABS doing its job—don’t let up! Practicing emergency stops in a safe, empty parking lot can help you get comfortable with how ABS feels.

2. Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist

Lane departure warning and lane keeping assist are car safety features designed to prevent unintentional lane drifting, which is a leading cause of accidents. These systems use cameras and sensors to detect lane markings and alert you if you start to drift without signaling. Some cars will even gently steer you back into your lane.

The problem? Many drivers either turn these features off because they find the alerts annoying or ignore the warnings altogether. Instead, treat these alerts as helpful reminders, not nuisances. If your car gently nudges the steering wheel, don’t fight it—let it guide you back, then check your surroundings and correct your course. Make sure your windshield and cameras are clean, as dirt or snow can block sensors and reduce effectiveness.

3. Adaptive Cruise Control

Adaptive cruise control is a game-changer for highway driving, but it’s often misunderstood. This car safety feature automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. Too many drivers set it and forget it, assuming the system will handle everything. However, adaptive cruise control is not a substitute for attentive driving.

You should always keep your hands on the wheel and be ready to take over if traffic conditions change suddenly. Adjust the following distance setting based on weather and traffic—longer distances are safer in rain or heavy traffic. Remember, adaptive cruise control can be confused by stationary objects or vehicles cutting in front of you, so stay alert. Using this feature properly can reduce fatigue and help prevent rear-end collisions, but only if you remain engaged and aware.

4. Blind Spot Monitoring

Blind spot monitoring is another car safety feature that can save lives, but only if you use it as intended. This system uses sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spots and alerts you with a light or sound. The mistake many drivers make is relying solely on the system and skipping manual checks.

Blind spot monitors are a supplement, not a replacement, for turning your head and checking your mirrors. Use the alerts as an extra layer of protection, especially in heavy traffic or on multi-lane highways. If your car’s system includes rear cross-traffic alert, pay attention to those warnings when backing out of parking spaces. Always combine technology with good driving habits for the best results.

Make Every Drive Safer with Smart Habits

Car safety features are only as effective as the person using them. By understanding how these systems work and using them correctly, you can dramatically increase your safety on the road. Don’t let technology lull you into complacency—stay engaged, practice using these features, and make them part of your everyday driving routine. The right habits, combined with modern car safety features, can help you avoid accidents and protect everyone in your vehicle.

What about you? Have you ever realized you weren’t using a car safety feature correctly? Share your stories or tips in the comments below!

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