A pair of automotive experts have urged motorists to avoid buying three popular used hatchbacks, stating they could cost more than their owners bargained for.
Adam Morris and Jim Hull run the YouTube channel ReDriven and regularly make videos offering their views on the best and worst new and used vehicles to get behind the wheel of.
In one of their latest videos, the two Australian driving personalities talk about the used cars that motorists should avoid, starting with the Vauxhall Astra, marketed locally as a Holden.
Adam advised: “Do not go near an Astra, or as many mechanics call them, a ‘Disastra’, specifically anything from about 1998 until 2009. These things are so bad, we know of wholesalers who won’t take them as a trade-in.”
Jim added: “And, particularly for the older models, they are getting harder to find parts for too. It’s a nightmare to fix them.”
Whilst the latest versions of the Astra have been widely praised, Jim and Adam mentioned that the fourth and fifth generations are far from desirable.
In addition to their dated appearance, some Astra owners have suffered faults with the electronics, such as the instrument panel giving false readings, and issues with the clutch.
Nevertheless, here in the UK, the Astra’s popularity means it should be possible to find plenty of spare parts for reasonable prices.
Later in the video, Jim also recommended that drivers steer clear of the Ford EcoSport, or any model built between 2011 and 2018 with an EcoBoost engine due to their poor track record for reliability.
He explained: “Now, the engine in this was actually voted ‘Engine of the Year’ in some stupid category and then proceeded to be one of the worst engines of all time. It’s just utter rubbish.
“While we’re talking about Fords, generally avoid anything with an EcoBoost engine or a PowerShift transmission.”
Finally, Adam suggested that motorists who want a used car with a bit of luxury should not opt for a Chrysler 300C, criticising the poor build quality.
He continued: “You’re not a gangster. Driving a 300C is not intimidating anyone, it’s not a scary-looking car, it just looks sad.
“The build quality in these is just an absolute joke. Not just mechanically, but interior trim, exterior trim. Yeah, don’t buy a 300C.”
