congratulations to you , i just retired myself in January after 42 years a a mechanic . and yes , this gentleman is correct. How these car manufacturers can put out such garbage is a crime.
I have a 2014 Toyota Yaris with a 5 speed. Its the exact same 1NZ-FE/C50 combo that was in the 2007 Yaris and the engine dates back to the first year Echo with very minimal changes. Its been the most reliable car I have ever owned and she gets pampered with 4000 mile full synthetic oil changes and top shelf filters. I expect to get 500k out of it. I bought a Yaris specifically for the 1NZ-FE, its such a fantastic little mill and its sooooo cheap to run.
@@mitch9521 my coworker has a Yaris and hates the damn thing but said he’s not getting rid of it until it dies and he’s angry because it never breaks down 🤣
Well, the Toyota CVT equivalent is not an actual CVT but rather a fixed gearbox and varying it using electric drive motors. No belts involved, and that's why it last about as long as the vehicle. ua-cam.com/video/w_mc17CoyJs/v-deo.html Wish more manufacturers did this. Chevrolet Volt, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Nissan Note ePower did more or less the same thing. (Serial Hybrid)
I drive a '96 Ford Explorer with the 5.0L V8, and I drive it almost daily to school. It still pushes on with many, many miles on it, even though some problems are apparent and may be fixed or need to be fixed in the future. I still enjoy driving it, though. It was used as a work truck before my family got it.
Me and my brother keep running our 2000 Nissans, I got a Sentra and he has a Pathfinder. Nissans were great up until the Renault acquisition, I'll choose any pre 2000 Nissan over anything new.
You're getting notoriety. I was at a Toyota dealership looking for a cheap car, and the salesman tried to pawn off a Equinox on me. I said nope, and went over the laundry list. He asked, how do you know all this. I replied, I'm a mechanic and I watch the Car Wizard. He said "Oh, you're one of those guys."
This unfortunately is GM as of late. You will find one or two engine/transmission combinations that are decent and the rest are just garbage. My dad's Audi.. the engine is fine. My Ford (not a truck) .. the engine is fine. My sister's Honda.. Why even ask.
I hope young families watch these videos. An expensive car repair can put a young family underwater. Thanks car wizard for great community service you’re providing!
best as a young family is to buy an old car which type and engine was known for its reliability, get it used if there are not to much miles on it it will last forever. Sure old cars dont got certain electronic features which are nice but better than nothing. My first car was a VW caddy from 2001 shitbox which I bought for 2 grand overhere and it never died, sold it one day after using it for 4 years. Also stay away from most new cars they are build like dogshit and expensive af. Got a job in engineering and the engineers I know who got expensive cars (Mercedes E class / R class, Audi, Jaguar, BMW) which crap out after around 80'000 km all due to transmission deaths is beyond madness. These cars overhere are all above 100'000 euros mind you (besides the E class). Sure old cars are ugly but at least you dont need to sell a kidney to pay for the repairs
Love your info. I'm 70 years old, and drive a 2002 Buick Park Avenue with a 3800 engine. It has over 208,000 miles and runs like a new one, but I service it faithfully. I've had things go wrong, but usually normal wear and tear. I hope it will last as long as I do.
Ron. The EGR failed on mid 1990's 3.8 when GM switched to a composite intake manifold. I applied retrofit kits that made an air gap between the manifold and EGR pipe. The dealer would install a new manifold for about $1100. I think GM went back to alloy intake on later models. The 3.8 was introduced in late 1970's and went through about 4 generations till the early 2000''s when replaced with the 3.6 (push rod to four overhead cams).
I've also got a 3800, in a 96 Camaro with a 5-speed manual transmission. I find the whole car is actually pretty cheap and easy to work on, and I'll choose it over a 5th Gen 3.6 Camaro any day of the week.
I thought the same about my ex wife, serviced her well but in the end she left and it cost me more than she was worth. I was faithful, had things go wrong and hoped things would last as long as I do but alas, it was not to be.
I absolutely love how laid-back you are-no need to yell and throw your arms around. Also, you frame things in a positive way like, "25% of people maintain their vehicles." Thank you, I'm subscribed.
"25% of cars are maintained properly so 75% of cars that you might look at to buy are problems waiting to cost you money. I think it's worse than that though because the well maintained cars tend to be KEPT, not traded in or sold. Or they tend to be handed down to family members etc. Very helpful video. Thanks for posting it.
BINGO!!!!! I feel truly sad for people who want or have to buy older vehicles. I saved great gobs of cash by driving older cars for 50 years and fixing them myself. Todays cars are horrifically complicated needing expensive often exclusive electronic equipment to work on. Some things are better but all that much when you consider the price of the things.
Thats why i drive an 86’ and my so. Has a 91 s10. Stupidly simple efi. Bulletproof drivetrain. I got 300k out of my last 4.3. The body rotted off . Still ran like a champ,
What a great video. Thank you. I used to work for a car rental company 20 years ago. We provided a lot of rental cars for people having their cars serviced at a Chevy dealership. I was making decent money and wanted to buy my first car, so I asked the service manager if I should buy a Tahoe or a Corvette, his reply was "buy any Toyota!" I laughed thinking he was joking, but he was dead serious. He said Toyota is the best car in the world. He added: "when's the last time you saw a Toyota stopped on the side of the road? If you see a Toyota stopped, it either has a flat or ran out of gas, it didn't break down." He was and still is right.
Toyota is tied in with General Motors. Case in point, the Chevy GEO PRIZM is nothing but a Toyota Corolla and both cars take Camery break pads. The Pontiac Aztec is made by Toyota. Chevy, Isuzu, Toyota, Suzuki, Daywoo, Saub and Hummer are all tied in with General Motors.
@@danbasta3677 the Pontiac Aztek is 100% GM. You're probably thinking about the Vibe. Apart from the Prizm, the Vibe and the Chevrolet Nova of the 80s, every other car is 100% GM.
@@danbasta3677 Pontiac has been dissolved. Any ties between Toyota and GM as long dead. It’s be like me saying Mitsubishi and Chrysler are still working together because they did in the 90s/2000s
I appreciate the bluntness and honesty. I respect the effort to help and educate. I saw a video yesterday and subscribed right away--thank you! I had a 1996 Toyota Corolla until 2021 with 365,000 miles on it. Those mid-90s Toyota engines were very durable. It was the body that forced me to get a new car, not the engine.
Same. I just reluctantly retired my ‘99 RAV4 because the frame is rusted through like Swiss cheese. Not safe to drive so I gave it my brother-in-law to turn it into a snow plow on his acreage.
I was a shop foreman for awhile at a garage in a small town. EVERY SINGLE VEHICAL he stated in this video is dead on. Before this video started, there were several vehicles I was hoping he would mention. And he did not disappoint. The vehicles mentioned in this video are the mechanic's bread and butter.
@@experimentchannel9692 I had a few 5.6L I've worked on. Most of the engines were the 5.4L Ford 3 Valve. The newer Hemi engines. Eco Tech GM, inline 4s. A lot of V6 engines used in the dodge caravans. 6.0L and 6.4L Ford Diesel. a few 5.9L Cummings. etc. Dodge and Ford was by far the most common vehicles with severe engine problems. The worst I've seen from a 5.6 were chunks in the cylinders, never knew how that happened.
I know a family that bought a Chevy Cruze, and the turbo went out, knee deep in a full on renovation, the husband is working in a different city and the wife has to bikie to work because they still owe money for the car.
They should’ve gone with a high mileage Toyota that is too old for factory Bluetooth music streaming or the trusty old GMT800 GM truck or full size SUV for the same amount of money instead. A 2008 Corolla may be ancient but at least you won’t have the headaches from a 2015 Chevy Cruze.
I had a good run working in a shop as both owner and worker for over 50 years. I sure would hate to have to face what mechanics do today. The Car Wizard is spot on in this video. I turn 77 in a few months and even though I can still work its not on vehicles anymore. I started working for my dad in the shop I own today in 1961. I still love repairing things but now its things much smaller like golf carts and lawn mowers. Those are the ones I buy and not for customers anymore. Got to stay busy doing something or you won't last long.
I own a 72 pontiac grandville. 455 with a quadrajet and let me just say that this car is the absolute best car I've ever owned. Super simple to maintain and repair. It sat for 20 years before I got it. I rebuilt the carb , new water pump and fuel pump , timing chain, added dual exhaust and some boxed rear upper and lower control arms . Replaced all the worn joints and bushings. Engine is original other than an upgraded small hei distributor. This car is an absolute dream to drive . Pillow soft riding comfort and enough torque to pull tree stumps. What a great car.
I never thought I'd be "That Guy" on the internet, but the 3-valve 5.4L V-8 wasn't ever used in the E-150/250/350 Ford vans. They only ever got the 2-valve engine, which is vastly less problematic. We had nearly 40 of them in our fleet, all went 250,000 miles on the factory engine and transmission. The 3-valve disaster zone was only ever put into the trucks and SUVs. That being said, I can't fault Car Wizard for getting this one tiny bit of trivia wrong. And I would never, ever claim to know more than he does! :)
you are correct , i have a 2 valve 5.4 in a 2001 e 350 no problems , wife has a 3 valve 2007 sportrac and i keep telling her its doomed and it has to go
Just got a 2018 Nissan Murano with 20K miles. After Mr. Wizards warning about the CVT transmission issues , I had the AT fluid changed. Sure enough, the old fluid was JET BLACK! MY CVT will be serviced every 20K like clockwork! Thank you Mr. Wizard for the warning that CVT transmissions are 100% maintenance intolerant!
I joined a Nissan Pathfinder forum to see what user experiences were with the CVT. The consensus is similar to yours: change the fluid every 25K or two years (whichever is first). It’s a lot cheaper doing that than replace by the CVT. (Fortunately, Nissan has swapped the CVT with a 9-speed automatic made by ZF in their totally overhauled 2022 Pathfinder model.)
@@JBM425 I've not heard anything good about the ZF nine speed either, it's probably why Honda is trying to replace it with their own in house built 10 speed.
@@elizabethmiller7918 it's the same ZF nine speed that FCA and Honda uses. It might be tuned differently, but it's the same one. Check reviews of the 2022 Pathfinder and you'll hear it.
I can see the Wizard sitting down with a customer on that couch using the comforting and soothing voice of his to break the news of a $7,000 auto repair.
I took your advice, walked away from a Rogue / Outlander options and bought an 11 year old Toyota Highlander with a full service history. Doesn't feel over a decade old and goes like silk. It's a tank minus the turret. Thank you!
I run a transmission facility in south Florida and everything this guy just said is 1000% correct. I was literally laughing thur all the cars because we are seeing the same problems and people saying the same thing. Then I give people the advice to stick to Lexus or Toyota but they don’t wanna pay the premium but then they will pay it when it comes to repairing the junk that they bought.
Hi Jesse, I just left a comment a minute ago and then saw your comment about Toyota. My husband and I are buying brand new next year, we need something reliable and something that can tow a caravan. We are looking at the Toyota Prado right now, what do you think of them ? Any other suggestion would be appreciated, thanks from Jodie, Australia 🇦🇺
God Bless you for your honesty and sharing your experience. I just subscribed. I have a family with 7, Wife 3 -Daughters , 2-Sons. Your advice is Spot on. I’m a Repair Mechanic for Commercial Laundry Equipment but also work on our Cars and Trucks and love the challenge. If you ever get to listing your suggested best years of Toyota Models that would be helpful. I took your advice and bought a 2001 Toyota Highlander Limited and it’s built like a battleship 💪. Because I’m 67 and did my first Head Gasket at 15-yrs. Old I can say Toyota’s Mechanical skill far exceeds anything else I’ve worked on. Thanks for confirming my thoughts. 🙏
I like that you advised on a family of power trains rather than specific models. Your advise comes from decades of experience saving us hard-earned money. Thanks.
You’re right about the 5.4 engine. I owned (2) F-150’s with this motor . Both were highly maintained and still had phaser issues . The first one cost $6000 to fix . The second one never broke down but sounded like a diesel engine for 150,000 miles .
I have a 2018 f150 for a work vehicle and it also sounds like a diesel and especially at start up. The rear axel also had the pinion seal leak at 30k and then the differential got shredded at around 115k. The dealer rebuilt it for 3500 and our mechanic put it back on. At about 130k the stupid pinion seal began to leak again. And now this truck is at about 143k and sounds so bad at start up. Unfortunately all of our F150 fleet sound like diesels to some degree or another. Nobody else in our fleet had my same differential problems but you would think Ford would get it right some day. I wish our fleet would go to tundras
@@mattwalmer6162 I surgically removed the broken Exhaust Manifold Studs with the Rescue Bit. I only needed a Thread Chaser to clean up the existing threads. It was a piece of cake 🍰
I was a tech at a CDJR dealership for a few years. Most of our business was the 3.6 doing really dumb things. The oil cooler leaks, the heads, lifters, coolant issues, etc. He's not joking when he says few people are doing regular maintenence on their vehicles. Had a 3.6 with 90k miles on it was full of sludge.
Yes but the new head they put on is the same as the old one! The new "robust" head is no different. The Navistar 3.6 has had this problem with the left head since day 1 and they are hush hush releasing any info about the problem. I think they rushed to get the motor done and released it knowing that they would get it back with an issue. The marketing they used to promote this state of the art engine was impressive. They left out the oiling issues, the "tick of death" and the other problems with the cooling system. And I read customers loosing 3 to 5 mpg with the head recall. There's tons of info online
@@davidkeller4841 oh yeah definitely a temporary fix. Right now 220k miles and my dashboard is lit up like a Christmas tree lol. Going to run it until the wheels fall off and then crush it.
Wizard, that was brutal -- Thank You for putting your knowledge out to everyone. It's just so refreshing to hear the real deal about something. No Bull-oney!
It’s funny he mentions a Nissan Cvt! I currently drive a 2011 Nissan Altima owned it since new! It has 325,000 miles on it and has the original transmission in it! The only problem I’ve had with it was the cooler line broke and all the fluid came out! Replaced the line refilled I’ve put 10k on it since then! I’ve been waiting for the day the transmission goes out! Cause of all that I’ve heard and read! This one refuses! 😅
Many people same the same thing, that they had no problems. I hope I will be one of those fortunate drivers. I have a 2023 Nissan Kicks. It will be a year old in a few days. It has been a pleasure to drive. Other people with other brands complain about their sensors. Thus far, mine work wonderfully. I plan to change the transmission fluid and filters at 20,000 (or sooner if needed). It had its first oil change at under 3,000 miles. Car Wizard owns a Cube with a CVT.
All I have to say this man is: much respect to you for your honesty. I drive nothing but Toyotas. Mockers call me Collector, and this because I have a 2011 Corolla that’s still running amazing, a 2015 Toyota Sienna (I’m married to it 😊), and 2015 Highlander. No headaches with these cars!!! A friend who has been a Ford Tech for over 22 years told me, "Buddy, never buy a Ford." Having worked at the Ford dealership for over 22 years he drives nothing but Toyotas and Hondas. That tells you something!!! Thank you, kind sir…
I bought Ford most of my life. I didn't know any better. I thought everyone had to repair their vehicles continually. That's how I learned a lot about maintenance. They break so often I was always repairing something. Finally, I bought my wife a 2014 Honda CRV. Now I drink iced tea and sit in the shade. I should sell my tools.
Well I am a Ford man. I got some of it from my father and the rest working at an automotive supplier. Ford was our biggest pain in the ass for demanding quality. I agree they have been puting out some bad stuff lately. I tend to go with their ancient successes. 300 cubic inch sixs were bullett proof, 2300 4 cylinders I have hit 300k miles with and I strongly favor the 460 over the 454 for big horsepower reliability. The 302 was one of the most fuel efficient gas engines in brake horsepower per pounds of fuel per hour the SAE books recorded. The 3 valve modular engines and a few others are junk I agree. I like Chevy 4.3 V6s and have owned several Dodge diesel pickups (standard shifts)😁.
Well, I got a '03 windstar with the 3.8 and it has never been taken apart!!! Sure you get the normal stuff like suspension and crap like that, but, the engine and trans are original and it fires up on the first crank!!! The key is to look after them and make sure the fluids are clean and the filters are replaced regularly.
I have a personal vendetta against GMC acadias. When I first purchased mine my mechanic told me to start saving for the timing chains and transmission and man was he not wrong
I bought my 2015 used had my mechanic install a transmission cooler. Two years later the whole air conditioning system had to be replaced. Then the radiator.Then the power steering pump. When the transmission started slipping I got rid of it . I replaced it with a 2009 MDX with twice the miles, paid 9450 cash. I follow regular maintenance and the timing belt has been replaced.
I'm a recently retired auto tech of 40 years and can't argue with any of this. Got to where doing timing chains on 3.6L GM, (mostly Acadia/Traverse) I could almost do them in my sleep.
I'm with you brother, I'm at the point where I don't even discuss good vehicle purchases. I used to tell friends, and family, go with Toyota, Lexus, or Honda. I do my research. I'm not a mechanic buy being an expensive purchase, I do care about how I'm spending my money on a vehicle. Look what's on the road, many people just don't care to do a little research to save themselves a lot of money. So frustrating to me. Keep spreading the word. Maybe a few will wake up.
I have owned many vehicles during ,y 78 years of life..The WIZARD definitely knows his business. He has saved me from losing alot of money on expensive repairs..I hope that he will consider writing a book. Thank you WIZARD ,
I started my auto repair business in 1969. Often, clients would call on me to recommend a car or truck for their next purchase. Suggestions were easy because there were many good choices in the marketplace. However, through the years, vehicles got costlier and more complicated to repair, while quality went downhill. As the years passed, it became easier for me to tell them what not to buy.
@@jupitercyclops6521 Several parts manufacturers that we dealt with for years, started supplying poor quality parts that ended up causing problems for the end users. When we looked into the problems, the reason was that many smaller manufacturers were bought up by bigger companies, and production in the USA was shut down, and moved to China. The Chinese might make good eggrolls but their auto parts industry sucks.
@@jupitercyclops6521 that, and planned obsolescence. Shit ain't built to last, for a reason. Perfectly happy with my 96 jeep Grand Cherokee, with AMC drive train. Also happy with my 88 7.3l international and my 96 7.3l power stroke. Those were the days that durability was the highest, marketed goal. It was after 2000 that they saw longer-lasting cars, resulting in less new cars being sold. It became unprofitable, over night. In the last 20 years, I can't find more good than bad. I seen a brand new Silverado totaled out, over their flimsy, aluminum bed. I've seen a 95 Ford ranger reach 500,000 miles, after falling off a cliff in WV, at 345,000. And I live in NC. Saw it at its 500k mark and heard the full story. The 80s and 90s was a prime time for bullet-proof vehicles, after the disappointing 70s. The 50s and 60s are even reliable and cheap. But newer vehicles are as disposable as toilet paper, while having more bells and whistles(that will all break) than a freaking aircraft carrier. It's gone to hell. That's why I keep my reliable vehicles, and stay away from "progressive" vehicles.
As an owner of a 2014 Enclave, at 140,000 miles it's still running well. Granted the owner before me as well as myself maintain this car meticulously. I had already bought this vehicle before discovering the issues through your channel. Now, I make sure I don't miss a service and even take it in early when I feel the need is there.
I also have a 2014 Enclave. 107,000 Miles currently. I have owned it since 34,000 Miles. I meticulously maintain the vehicle (trans fluid changed twice already for example). These engines are hard on oil. Fortunately though, the owner can simply change to the oil as needed and have a great engine. I do. Oil life hits 20% (about 5,000 miles/6 months with my usage) and I change it with Mobil 1 High Mileage combined their 1 year/20,000 mile filter.
@E.J. Roe I also just went through and had my trans fluid done. Not sure that had ever been done before but got it done since the fluid was in OK shape and didn't smell burnt. All fluids have been done on mine except for the diff fluids. That's next on my service list. After that it should just be maintenance from here on out. Everything else is in good shape. No leaks either.
As a tech that worked in a GM dealership for 5 years GM 3.6 and GM 1.4 are two of the worst engines ever made. That said our customers that did 3000 mile full synthetic oil changes “USUALLY” avoided timing chain issues on the 3.6. I had a sonic with the 1.4 and can tell you even with meticulous maintenance I couldn’t keep the thing from braking constantly.
My parents bought a 2012 enclave new. We changed the oil ourselves every 5k. It did have the injectors fail around 150k. We they traded it in at 188k the engine still ran good and didn’t burn any oil. The transmission was failing. They bought a used Lexus and now years later that Lexus has 210,000 and it’s literally never had a problem. The spark plugs were original until about a month ago. They did love the Buick! But Lexus is just better quality by far. Maintenance is key! Cheers
Thank you so much for your information. You helped a lot of people staying away from traps. And I like Mrs. Wizard partnering with you, it makes the video more fun.
My 2010 F150 with a 5.4 Triton has 183k miles on both the original motor and transmission. I've still got the original cam phasers as well. Running strong still after 7 years of ownership with 120k miles driven by me personally. Maintenence is everything.
My 2012 has 154,000 and is still doing great. It even looks great because maintenance has been done and taken very good care of. My new King Ranch is scheduled to be built on 8/18/2022, ordered on 2/15/2022. I’m keeping the 2012 because it still is awesome.
07 F150 5.4 215k bought it with 125k just had the full timing set, rockers and upgraded oil pump done at the dealership just incase. I requested the old parts back for inspection. Oil changes every 3-4k with pennzoil platinum 5w-30 as Fordtechmakoloco recommends
Bought new 2014 Chrysler Town and Country 3.6 engine. Cylinder head replaced twice. When new purchased Chrysler lifetime warranty. ( no longer available) Over $13,000 of warranty work since new.
Dodged the 5.4 Triton F150. I was looking at one so I called my mechanic, he said don’t do it. Ended up with a 2014 F150 5.0. Had to fix the fuse issue but that was an easy fix. As a bonus it is a southern driven truck with zero rust.
What about Engines and transmissions we can buy, the 3800 series by GM, the 4.0 I6 and 2.5 i4 by AMC, the Non-AFM LS based truck engines, the 4.6 2v by Ford, the 5.7, 5.2 and 5.9 Hemi by Chrysler and 1.8 and 2.0 I4 by Toyota
@@brianlego98gaming The Car Wizard will do that installment of six used vehicles with these engines and transmissions, that you should buy soon. @ATX-CVPI told me that the 3.3 L and 3.8 L V6 engines from Chrysler are fairly reliable. They are used in the 2001 to 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan and the Chrysler Town and Country. Also, the 2.3 L and 2.5 L four-cylinder, as well as the 3 L V6 engines are excellent from Ford. This is the reason, that the older Ford Fusion's, Taurus', Escape's, as well as the 2002 to 2006 Mazda MPV (which uses the five-speed automatic transmission) and the first-generation Mazda 6 are still great vehicles to buy. The Mazda 3 with the 2 L four-cylinder engine is also a buy as well.
One of the best YT auto mechanics.. Salute to you and i wish more prosperity for you and your family. I appreciate all the knowledge and wisdom from you💪🏾
I had a 2011 Pentastar, no head issues for the 180k miles i iwned it. At 150k i went to put in new roller rockers and found the originals were all still perfect. Regular 6000 mile oil changes on Mobil 1 and lots of the problems people have wouldn't ever occur.
Had a '99 Ford F-350 with 5.4 Triton.It had a catering body on it from brand new. Parked it with 403,000 miles cause it finally gave up the ghost.....and it was the only vehicle I ever owned in 50 years of driving that would blow spark plugs OUT of the holes and sometimes with no warning stranding me and costing me lost wages. When all the coils and plugs were firing properly it ran like a top and burned absolutely no oil. Oil changes were done at 3,000 miles from new and transmission done at 253,000 miles. Problem is one can not maintain a vehicle that has DESIGN flaws. I wrote Ford a letter way back then informing them it would be my last Ford vehicle....and so far it is.
@@chynacash3138 the issue with them he is talking about is the lack of useful threads in the head to hold the spark plugs in. My son has a 2003 4.6 f150 and had to make sure none broke coming out and also made sure to torque them to specs. This is literally the first time I've seen spark plugs having to be torqued so they don't blow out of the head. HAHA
I love how when Wizard makes these Do Not Buy lists, the Traverse and Encore (aka Buick Chodemaster) always find their way onto it. You can set your watch to it. Lol.
The Buick marque just needs to die already. They had the perfect opportunity to bring back the grand National with that V-series turbocharged v6 Coupé they made a few years back.
@@stoneylonesome4062 they had some genuinely good cars in the regal GS and tour x, but nobody bought them. So now all that's left of them in the US is a bunch of mom-mobiles
@@stoneylonesome4062 I am still baffled as to why they got rid of Olds but kept Buick. When my inlaws bought a new car after 3 decades of new Oldsmobiles they bought a Toyota instead of going to another GM line.
Honestly Buick styling is pretty neat and I loved the look of their sedans before they went the way of the dodo. Buick is just so shackled by GM it can't compete. It's meant to be affordable luxury right? People don't want that anymore. I don't understand why GM doesn't make it a performance brand like a budget Porche. But what do I know. In the end though Buick North America really needs some changes.
Pretty sure I've heard about overheated/failed turbine blades getting sucked back into the cylinders before, but this is the first time I've heard about an engine that can choke to death on chunks of its own cat converters. That's a pretty crazy failure mode.
@@thompsonwelds Not an automotive engineer, but from my enthusiastic layperson's understanding, this is how it happens: Most if not all modern 4-stroke engines suck a bit of exhaust gas back into the cylinder and/or push a bit of gas back up the inlet manifold during the period in the timing cycle known as "valve overlap" when the intake and exhaust valves are both open. This is done to help manage combustion chamber temperatures and improve mixing of the incoming fuel/air charge, and also to improve scavenging of spent gasses from the cylinder. It's all about managing the pulses in the exhaust system from each cylinder to maximise efficiency, which all works fine when there's minimal back-pressue in the system during normal operation. But if pressure builds up due to a blockage like a failed turbo or cat converter the pulses/gas flow get all fucked up resulting in more exhaust gas getting dragged back into cylinder alongs with chunks of turbine wheel or catalyst.
We have a 2015 Toyota Highlander purchased new, that except for oil & filter changes and the normal crappy OEM tires that only lasted 35,000 miles, has had zero issues with any other component. It currently has 79,000 miles with original brake pads. Shop says there's still about 50% wear on the pads and rotors look good.
Can absolutely back you up on those Nissan CVT’s, my 08 Sentra’s CVT failed at 71k miles because the maintenance was never done. I performed the flush myself at 100k miles with Nissan CVT fluid, and the fluid with not even a full 30k miles on it was looking rough, and just barely glittery. It’ll definitely go out again, but I love that little car. You only have one first car, yknow?
We've had some bad experience with Nissan in the past. 2003 Terrano (not sold in North America) with a five speed manual. The first four years were great, by the fifth year it started to have issues. Alternators failed, clutches burnt (probably driver's fault), belts snapped for no apparent reason, and ocassional overheating, all with routine maintenance. The 2003 Pathfinder we got after that with the automatic transmission was better, but that had issues with the fuel pump. After those two it was Toyota/Lexus every time we bought a new car, and we've not had any issues whatsoever since then.
I have a friend who used to have a 2010 Nissan X-Trail and never had a problem with the CVT... Though I do agree that they're average at best (Nissan CVT) and maintenance is key!
@@damilolaakanni Unfortunately Nissan had some severe quality control issues in the early 2000's through to around 2012-13. Quality control got better after that point, and while I would definitely recommend Nissans from that time period to now, they're still no Toyota. Pretty sure they're 3rd place runner up, though, which isn't too shabby. My poor little Sentra has those quality control issues too, one of the radio buttons broke years ago and replacing was just too much, so that button just hangs loose. Driver door panel arm rest had weak plastic that snapped and doesn't sit right anymore, etc etc. I'm still proud of that car, though, still meandering around town at 105k miles and 14 years old is good enough for me.
I agree with the first car part! But I did my research and bought myself a used Lexus ES330 for my first car. 180k miles, one owner car, 4 years ago. Last week I just crossed 280k and the only issue so far has catalytic converters , but nothing major to the far. My first car ever and I love it dearly, never gonna sell it. Hope to get at least 500k out of it, it’s still jn very good shape
Ha, I knew the Ford 5.4/3 valve would be one of these, though I thought you might save the "best" for last. I'm not surprised to see the horrible Jatco/Nissan CVTs got in, too. While any brand of car needs to be maintained to remain reliable, I think the big difference is that well made engines and transmissions can tolerate inconsistent service intervals with minimal impact to reliability and longevity.
@@silosis lmaoo Yes I did see the video where there's the rebuild kit for the heads on the north star where you re-thread the heads... But getting it secondhand ehhhhhhh idk lol
If you do not like to maintain a car/engine, use public transport or buy an electric car. Almost all the problems mentioned are lack of maintenance related except the 1.4 ecotec and the crackhead chrysler.
Thanks.some of this I already new but you gave me even more insight. It's amazing what these car companies are asking for some of these cars. And they are junk right off the lot.
Wizard I could hear you in my ear when I replaced the fluid in my wife's CVT transmission I wish people would take your advice. You help so many people. Thank you 👍I don't know why for some reason when I service my cars is like they are happy that I did. When I sold my truck to my best friend he said he bought my old truck because of the service history. I have him dates off every service and it still runs amazing.
bought a 97 Camry 2 years ago and boy that thing has fewer issues than my 03 Saturn did in 2013 I live in the hills and those 4 cylinders could barely make it home. it still blows me away that my Saturn got me home its last day.
Anyone else out there watch this video and hold your breath waiting for him to point his finger at whats parked in your driveway? Hahaha Great video, subbed
A good buy is a 2003 4.8L Chevy Tahoe, mine thankfully has been well maintained with OEM mechanical and electrical parts (and no parts from O'Reilly or AZ). She's still kicking at 317000 miles. These vehicles are built like tanks and will last!
Great video Wizard! I really love how emphatic you were in your advice. It makes me so angry they keep selling this garbage and taking peoples trust and cashing in on it. I have only bought my wife and daughter Toyotas for the sole purpose that I never want them stranded on vulnerable on the side of the road. Ever. I drive Chevy V8, not always happy with them, but it's too late for me, I was addicted long ago...
Thank you! I will bet some people do take your advice but you never hear from them. We have four Toyotas in my family for the reasons you are talking about. I just love the brand.
I''ve got the notorious Nissan Jatco CVT transmission in my 2010 Suzuki. 110k miles and performing flawlessly. Original fluid, never been changed. Smoothest , quietest transmission I've ever experienced. The secret to keeping these troublefree is not to accelerate hard from a standstill. No hole shots at stop lights, no flooring accelerator at merges. Once the car is moving you can accelerate more aggressively, just NOT from a standstill. THis is what causes the Jatco to self destruct. This is exactly the opposite way in which people drive. Most people punch the gas pedal at stoplights.
This reflects what I’ve seen with friends, neighbors, and coworkers. Especially the Acadia GMC, multiple times. I’m one of the minority that maintains vehicles “by the book”. I can’t afford to break stuff, and doing this has kept even Fords running great for years.
I've had a few Fords, vans and cars, cheap to get parts. Relatively reliable but not Toyota reliable. But I've had Mondeo's for 2-5 years without a single issue. The Transit vans were good too. But I hear since 2010 Ford isn't as reliable??
@@Google_Does_Evil_Now I wouldn't know, I'm still driving a 1999! All my Ford's have been dead reliable, with one exception. Our 2004 Focus SVT was a lemon, with glitches since new.
@@Google_Does_Evil_Now the newer 10-speed automatics have issues but they're getting better each passing year. The Powerstroke super duties have problems like every other emissions choked diesel. The 1.6 and 2.0 four cylinders made up until around 2020 had major defects with coolant getting into the combustion chamber. As far as domestics go, Ford is probably the most reliable. But like any car brand, there will be problems from time to time.
@@jonlouis2582 1990s Fords are great. The petrols are under stressed and give so few problems. Modern-ish diesels with their exhaust gas recirculation etc I think can be a little annoying with maintenance requiring some parts, depends if it's worth it for the gas mileage.
Thanks to the wizards channel. I been watching for a while. I've learned a lot about what vehicles were good and not so good. Helped me pick my current vehicle.... A Toyota Tacoma. So far really pleased with it. I try to keep up with my maintenance but yeah I realized many don't. I know it's expensive to pay someone to do it for you. I try to do as much as I can of the routine things to save money and farm stuff I am not able or not completely comfortable with to an independent mechanic. I feel like having a decently maintained car is going to sometimes save you money and more often headaches from breakdowns.
I have a 2013 Cadillac ATS 3.6L, purchased new. Zero problems in 10 years. I change the oil per the onboard oil life system. Typically about 3500 mile intervals (mostly short trip city driving). Also change radiator coolant and transmission fluid on regular basis.
they made impala's for 9 years with the 3.6 vvt for a reason. That engine worked, at least for that car. They would've scrapped it way sooner if it wasn't working.
The LFX & the newer LFY are boss! 🦾 it's the older LLT & LY7 motors that have all the problems...actually I shouldn't say older, GM continued to use the LLT engines in their Enclave/Traverse/Acadia suv's well past 2012 and they were still junk!
Alot of the issue with the 5.4 triton was that it was one of the first to use lightweight oil 5/20 and many people switched to heavier oil which destroyed the engine. Now its common place to use even lighter oil and the oil is much better now. We have had several for many years with no big issues.
Good point. And failure to change the oil was a big issue with these motors. The older 2-valve V8s could put up with that but not the newer 3-valve ones.
I thought switching to heavier oils was usually beneficial to engines that have lubricating problems? Feel free to bust out the crayons and explain it like I'm 5...
Thank you for a very educational video. The factory engineers should not have allowed these flawed designs to be done. Please keep getting the word out to us citizens on the dangers out there.
The manufacturers are doing computer simulations on individual parts - - making them thinner and lighter until they last just 100,000 miles. This saves material cost and vehicle weight and GUARANTEES the car is OBSOLETE and not worth fixing.
Thank you Car Wizard for the advice. I had a 2013 Dodge Caravan 3.6 V6 with about 124,000 miles on it. Seemed nice at first, but was short lived. After a few weeks it threw the CEL for the thermostat code. I thought eh no big deal and replace it. Was good for a month or so and the AC compressor would make like a grind when first starting the van. Then few weeks later it died on me coming to a stop and threw the cam position/crank position correlation code. It died a few more times after that and restarted no problem. But then also noticed it almost like shuddered coming to a stop. Took it to the shop. They tell me it likely needs new timing chains. I took it to get a second opinion at a second shop just to make certain. They tell me the same thing and that the transmission has metal chunks in it. After that I just figured, man I need to cut this thing loose. What a money pit!
I loved my 2017 Altima with 50,000 miles. I thought, wow, this is great but I started to get weary of the CVT. I sold it for a very good price to CarMax and bought myself a 2013 Lexus GX 460 with 85,000 miles. Other than gas prices, I think I will have this for 15 plus years.
I've also been a mechanic in Switzerland for 40 years... And why have I been driving two BMW E30, 325iX, built in 1988 and 1989 ??? Have NO problems with it... My advice : NEVER ever buy a new car with this electronic garbage !!! These cars are no good, believe me...
I’m not a mechanic, far from it, I do a little car maintenance but nothing deep in the engines. I have a 1985 Volvo 244DL, The classic sedan. Literally the engine is bulletproof. Four-Cylinder. I bought it used from my neighbor, it had something like 230,000 miles, and I put another 25,000 or so on it. The engine runs like new, purrs like a kitten, And gets 25 miles per gallon for one hell of a heavy vehicle.
@@donabeyta252 I agree with you !BUT EVERYTHING is very expensive here not like in the USA... And if you are not good at your job, you have a (financial) problem in Switzerland....
@@steveperreira5850 A 1985 Volvo is a very good car, congratulations ! Take care of it !! What is produced after 1990 and up to now is all scrap, that's a fact !! No matter which manufacturer !!! For me, the BMW E30 are the last "real" BMW's... Luckily I still own two of them...
We had a 2011 armada with the 5.6 liter. Good engine and pretty decent power. Sounds really good. 160k miles and not a single issue. Kept up on regular maintenance. For us at least, it was a great engine.
I have a 2010 armada titanium ... bought it at 118k...has 145k now...have had no issues....oil changes, new tires and nissan idiot actuators needing replaced.
I've got an '07 Armada. I could easily afford a fancy new pickup or SUV, but none of them are as nice as my Armada. It's only got 96K miles, so there are many more years left for me to enjoy her.
Got a 2016 Infiniti QX80. No issues so far. Great engine, lots of power. Gas mileage is what it is for a V8. Not great around town but I get over 20 mpg on the freeway. We just took a trip to Yellowstone and we were able to travel the 340 miles on 3/4 of a tank of gas. The interior is still immaculate. Now I know we take care of things, but nothing is falling apart. Regular maintenance and knock on wood, we can keep going another 8-10 years.
The 1.4T first gen is bullet proof, Wizard is talking about the second Gen 1.4 DI version. The LUV does have PCV challenges, however the market is flooded with intakes and valve covers. The valve cover is a literally a 20 min job and the cover is $50. The intake is straight forward and easy to get at.
Concur. My 2019 1.4T is a bit wacky, but hasn't broken anything yet and I'm pretty religious about maintenance including the things that the manual says to "take to the dealer" for.
@@TheMarshall1016 Crazy what happens when you maintain your car and treat it well overall. I'm impressed that I still have the stock engine and trans. I got my 13' 1.4T manual with 20k miles and bolted on all available ZZP power mods, stock turbo max tuned (21-22 psi peak). I purchased a junkyard 1.4T spare engine that is still on the engine stand since I put it there, in 2015. I bought the spare engine after I hopped up the car. certain I would blow it up. This is because I learned how to calibrate turbo engines starting with the Cruze as my self teaching platform; and eventually became a development engineer in the dynos working on an OEM performance twin turbo engine project. I was already an engineer, just not doing engine development. This 1.4T engine can take a beating, it's experienced plenty of detonation. I autocross race it, stock ball joints and tie rod ends, stock wheel bears all around, stock axles that's pretty impressive or I drew a long straw and bought a Tuesday car. Opel in Germany designed the chassis. I've done a ton of work progressing the suspension into making the Cruze an unstable platform to improve handling and performance on the track. In stock for, it's a stable platform and that's good safe thing for non-racecar drivers and let's keep it that way lol.
Hondas and Toyotas will always be on the top my my list. Just bought a 7th generation accord with the v6 6speed transmission with low miles. Thanks for the video wizard!
toyota, yes. Honda, no. Had an odyssey minivan was the worst lemon I have ever owned. Many problems. I did have good luck with dodge caravan. Go figure. Also SE PDX
@@odomn depends my 04 odd still runs at 250k just fluids, oils,tires regular wear and tear. I do know about the Trans filter but hard to get to. Still the original one 🤞🏼
@@phxrsx that’s an opinion.. my ody still pulls but I take it easy 258k on . Back in the days it was a different story a beast . I did change shift sensors “ blinking green D” afterwards gone.
Thanks for the heads up on the Armada, Im coming up on cats soon. It's also important to be careful with the stock transmission cooler, as it can get too hot, crack, and take on coolant, pushing it through the transmission.
This strawberry milkshake issue was mainly in Pathfinder, X Terra’s and Frontiers. Even towing 3000lbs with my 14 Armada in the mountains, my transmission doesn’t get hot. Like I said, cracked manifolds and blend door issues are the main ones as long as you do your preventative maintenance.
yea just fix it i install aluminum ebay radiator in the is300 lexus yea it has uss a few bolt holes were off center cost was very low 100.00 or so so i figured as much [china]but i fixed that i all ways up grade to so called racing aluminum radiator s
One weird engine I had was the five cylinder inline 3.5 L Chevy in a Colorado. I was so suspicious of that engine, but I got 220,000 miles on that engine, and only replaced the water pump (twice, but I think that was because the mechanic did a bad job the first time, because it wasn't even a year later, then it was fine the rest of the time I owned it).
I had a Volvo 850 5 cyl and thought it would die every day I drove it after 75,000 miles. It finally died after 260k miles.. After I gave it to my mom and she ran it into a semi truck on a foggy highway one day. Weird motors don't mean bad motors. Its just bad owners
I had a Colorado with the 5 cylinder too, the transmission went out at 244k miles, engine was still fine. It was a good engine for that truck. Made decent power and got 20 mpg in an ext cab Z71.
My 5 cylinder Colorado absolutely drank fuel ⛽ 😱... 2 transmission replacements and 2 head replacements before it hit 125k all hwy miles and never towed anything 😢
I used to get 21-22 mpg on the highway and about 15-17 around town, so not horrible but nothing to brag about either. My Hemi Dodge Ram 1500 gets about the same. And, I towed a 6,000 lb center console all over the place with that Colorado. I just made sure to always have it in tow/ haul mode, because I heard you could screw the transmission up quick if you didn't do that towing something that heavy.
Thank you for the heads up. 👍 As per your advice, my wife and I steered clear of the Buick SUVs we were interested in and you made mention of, so we settled on a Verano instead, and are also being very faithful on its maintenance. Again, thank you. 👌
Your video now confirms why I have had no issues with vehicles that have gone down in history as less than reliable. I always follow the maintenance schedule.
I'm really enjoying your videos and I think there's a lot of good info. I own a transportation company we use a lot of Chrysler vans with the 3.6. they're generally quite problem free. I'm surprised at these issues you're seeing with the pentastars based on my experiences.
Sounded like the Wizard said the 3.6 Pentastar head usually fails very quickly, like days to weeks, after purchase if it's going to fail. To me that sounds like a manufacturing quality control issue rather than a design flaw. So, if you didn't get a van with a bad engine at purchase, you're probably good for a normal service life.
@@tevinabeysekera6038 we have good relationships with a local shop. We get our stuff worked on when it breaks. The Chryslers seem to spend less time in the shop than our fleet of odysseys.
Yeah Pentastar is solid. I have 225k on mine. Only engine issues I’ve had is the oil filter assembly housing which leaks on all of them over time and one bad cam position sensor.
Very well said! I wanted to make a little note that my parents have owned the GM 3.6 and currently own a Nissan 5.6. Both 3.6’s ran like tops for 260000 miles. You are absolutely right on the 5.6 though; they do get terrible fuel economy. They have to use premium gas as well! I watched your videos on diesel trucks, and I bought an lb7 duramax from my uncle. I know you said those have injector issues, but when I bought my truck, that issue was hammered out. It has 230k miles on it and still runs like it was new!
I like the GM 3.6l engine when they are maintained. Plenty of power, decent fuel economy. If you fail to change the oil, they can sludge like any other engine. Plus before covid you could buy some of those cars dirt cheap that had those engines.
@@mph5896 The Ford 3.5/3.7 needs more than just regular oil changes. They also need regular coolant flushes as well because of the timing chain driven water pump on FWD models. Every 3 years or 30,000 miles the coolant needs to be flushed out and replaced with Ford coolant. Don’t use anything but the factory coolant.
@@atx-cvpi_99 No. Ford Gold antifreeze is good for about 80k. There is no difference for the water pumps on the fwd vs awd in the Explorers/Taurus. I have changed out these water pumps before, its not as bad as people say it is. Book time is like 10 hrs, so that will get spendy if you are paying somebody to do it. Last one I did I was able to complete it in 4 hours. Bigger issue is the PTU oil on awd. That should be done every 30k.
Nissan 5.6 in titans require 89 octane or flex fuel, only the Infiniti 5.6’s require premium. I had one back in the day in my QX56 and it lasted way past 300,000 miles
I've been driving Nissan Titans since they came out in 2004. I'm on my 3rd Titan now, 2018, with 80,000 miles . I have never had any problems with my Titans, and I set the cruise on the highway driving 80mph, getting 18mpg. to 19 mpg. On the highway and 16 to 17 in town. Keep them serviced oil change every 3k miles ,transmission fluid change every 30k. Run the highest octane fuel because it is a high compression engine. Running the wrong fuel is probably what's causing the catalyst problem. It's not the Titan it's the Nut behind the wheel.
You went through 3 Titans in that short period of time?? Even if you had luck (which I’m not sure you did) he even says himself in the video we’re talking percentage chance. Not every one will fail prematurely but it happens more than other vehicles.
I worked at a Nissan dealer and Titan engines were a job that all the techs were trained in on. It was a necessary skill to be a technician there. It’s a much bigger problem in colder climates.
I remember an equinox being dropped off with the 3.6l, no start. Turn the key for a second and you can hear the clanking and crunching of whats left of the lifters rolling around, so I stopped and decided the timing chain probably went bad. My "mentor" at the time sat there and kept cranking it over and over and over until the battery died, just listening to the crunching and grinding sounds from the engine. It was really sad because they just bought the car for around 10 grand. My "mentor" at the time decided to have the heads re machined and try to laboriously repair the likely oil-starved engine instead of replacing it with a new drop-in engine, so they quoted the customer around another 10 grand for the repairs. They had to get a second car loan to fix the car they just took a car loan out for
I had a 2002 Monte Carlo SS with the 3800 Series II and that was one great engine. Got good mileage and had decent power. Too bad the tranny blew at 250K and the body was rusting out. Traded it for 2012 Impala with the 3.6L VVT, and I have to say, this engine has a lot more power and runs as smooth as silk. You just have to change the oil between 4 and 5K. Too many people would wait for the stupid computer to tell them when to change oil and that would be at almost 10K miles. THAT is why the timing chains and guides go bad so fast.
I know that the 2010-2013 pentastar v6 had the issue with left cylinder head failures, then there was a revision which strengthened up the valve seats and valve guides that was causing the pentastar tick and the head issues resulting in a missfire. I know there have been some issues people had till 2015-2016 about then there was another revision for it I've heard very little issues about it. 2013 and Prior there was a warranty extension till 150k or 7 years, i myself have a 2011 Dodge Durango with the 3.6l with 170k very little issues. There are lots of examples of those engines with 200k + one recently hitting 600k miles before failure. They are fairly solid motors
It's nice to watch one of these "don't buy" videos and know I'm finally not driving a Nissan with their dreaded CVT in it. I had four of them over time (08 Sentra, 09 Altima Coupe, 14 & 16 Rogue) without issue because I made sure the transmissions were getting serviced, but it's not much fun having that albatross constantly hovering over your head at 80-100k miles with no manufacturer or dealer warranty left to speak of.
So you had 4 vehicles with these CVTs never a problem, enjoyed the wonderful mpgs these CVTs confer and because of posts on the internet you got rid of them?
@@elizabethmiller7918 It wasn't just the ever-present possibility of the transmission failing, leaving me on the hook for thousands of dollars that I would not be able to produce all at once should it actually fail. It was just one ingredient in a tasteless smoothie. That Nissan had never actually done anything about the CVT, only starting to move away from it in 2022 in some vehicles, while doing little if anything to evolve their fleet was a factor. The "wonderful gas mileage" brought by the CVT actually being unexceptional and worse than much of the competition was a factor. What became a worse and worse overall driving experience, in part because of how a CVT behaves, especially in the 16 Rogue, was a factor. I could keep going. Honestly, I dealt with the overall "deal" far longer than I should have. I wasn't doing it again.
@@EXRagnell I've owned a 2014 altima with the CVT. Got 38 mpg on interstate when i was driving a bit faster, 40 mpg when i was chill and 42.5 mpg when i was really trying to get good mpgs. This is measured over along driving distance to account for short term blips in mpg up or down.
@@elizabethmiller7918 Personal experience and being a fairly conservative driver on the highway makes me severely doubt all of these numbers. And even if I was getting them, somehow, that does nothing to address any of my other issues.
@@EXRagnell The Altima is more economical than the Rogue and about the same as the sentra due to better aerodynamics. It impressed the H. out of me while I owned it. I only got rid of it because it had a dent in the rear bumper and I decided I did not like its color after all. I know stupid reason..
Appreciate your insight. I have owned 6 vehicles with the 3.6. The first was a 2007 ,one of the first with the overhead cam 3.6. Bought it used. 40,000 miles, way out of warranty, Buick repaired the engine(cam chains) free! The car was 6 years old. The rest of my cars, all went 70,000 miles or more trouble free. 2008 Enclave, 2014 Acadia, 2013 Traverse(this one now has over 90,000 miles), 2015 Lacrosse, 2017 Acadia, now over 60,000 miles. None, I repeat, none ever missed a beat. The key is, maintenance, regular oil changes on time or before with correct oil and grade. All vehicles were serviced at GM dealerships. Be certain what type and grade of oil you using. I’ll be buying a new Enclave shortly. These cars were all trouble free.
So what you're saying is that none of your cars have reached high mileage. When I was younger I used to flip cars. Most cars I bought had over 200k miles. Some over 300k.
The same general lack of build quality is happening with major appliances these days. Built to be quickly and cheaply assembled...NOT designed to be repaired!
That is absolutely what these companies are doing. I highly dislike Apple for really pushing for this type of manufacturing process and company culture.
But they are much cheaper. A basic washing machine costs the same today as it did 30 years ago, although as you say nowadays they are a throw away item when they go wrong.
![Lp. Сердце Вселенной #60 РОЖДЕНИЕ ЛОЛОЛОШКИ [Финал] • Майнкрафт](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/YoR0pAV9FVQ/mqdefault.jpg)
Just retired last year. 46 years as a mechanic. 27 of those in my own biz. Take it from me, this guy is spot on.
46 years mechanic? Hats off to U✊
What do you think about Mustangs? I think mine is a 2008
Nikki. All in all a reliable vehicle. The 3.8 and 5.0 powertrains are well proven.
@@chrisschmitt3860 Awesome! Thank you for letting me know!
congratulations to you , i just retired myself in January after 42 years a a mechanic . and yes , this gentleman is correct. How these car manufacturers can put out such garbage is a crime.
People make fun of Toyota using “old” technology and outdated drivetrains, but you gotta admit that if it ain’t broke don’t fix it.
Then, Toyota purists get upset (rightfully so) about bringing back the Supra without the best part of the last version. The engine!
More proof the "Kiss Principle " is valid.
I have a 2014 Toyota Yaris with a 5 speed. Its the exact same 1NZ-FE/C50 combo that was in the 2007 Yaris and the engine dates back to the first year Echo with very minimal changes. Its been the most reliable car I have ever owned and she gets pampered with 4000 mile full synthetic oil changes and top shelf filters. I expect to get 500k out of it.
I bought a Yaris specifically for the 1NZ-FE, its such a fantastic little mill and its sooooo cheap to run.
@@mitch9521 my coworker has a Yaris and hates the damn thing but said he’s not getting rid of it until it dies and he’s angry because it never breaks down 🤣
Well, the Toyota CVT equivalent is not an actual CVT but rather a fixed gearbox and varying it using electric drive motors. No belts involved, and that's why it last about as long as the vehicle.
ua-cam.com/video/w_mc17CoyJs/v-deo.html
Wish more manufacturers did this. Chevrolet Volt, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Nissan Note ePower did more or less the same thing. (Serial Hybrid)
Ford 5.4 3v Triton V8 (F/Expedition) - 1:00
Nissan CVT - 3:30
GM 1.4 Ecotec (Cruze, Encore, Sonic) - 6:50
GM 3.6 V6 (a lot, any 3.6 GM) - 8:57
Pentastar 3.6 (Grand Caravan, Wrangler, Journey, (Grand) Cherokee) - 11:50
Nissan 5.6 (Armada, Titan, Qx56/80) - 14:55
100% pure junk
Thanks for summarizing
My parents just bought a pentastar Cherokee after I told them not to.
Thanks for doing this. Much appreciated!!
I’ve got 359,000 miles on my 5 banger GM 3.5, wonder how the gm 3.6 is so crappy
I love my 240k mile '96 Explorer with the pushrod 4.0L V6. Everybody keeps trying to convince me to upgrade, but I can't trust newer vehicles.
Same. I have a 2000 and 2001 Cherokee both with 160k+ and they run great.
I drive a '96 Ford Explorer with the 5.0L V8, and I drive it almost daily to school. It still pushes on with many, many miles on it, even though some problems are apparent and may be fixed or need to be fixed in the future. I still enjoy driving it, though. It was used as a work truck before my family got it.
Me and my brother keep running our 2000 Nissans, I got a Sentra and he has a Pathfinder. Nissans were great up until the Renault acquisition, I'll choose any pre 2000 Nissan over anything new.
As long as it's still running good, keep that thing.
I'm going back to older vehicles. These new vehicles are nice if you want to upgrade every 2 years.
You're getting notoriety. I was at a Toyota dealership looking for a cheap car, and the salesman tried to pawn off a Equinox on me. I said nope, and went over the laundry list. He asked, how do you know all this. I replied, I'm a mechanic and I watch the Car Wizard. He said "Oh, you're one of those guys."
That was a cringe story, thanks
@@YungEagle3k 😂😂😂😂
This unfortunately is GM as of late. You will find one or two engine/transmission combinations that are decent and the rest are just garbage. My dad's Audi.. the engine is fine. My Ford (not a truck) .. the engine is fine. My sister's Honda.. Why even ask.
You owned the dealership flunkie
He's probably sick of all the Kilmer-tards coming in turning their nose up at anything that isnt a Toyota
I hope young families watch these videos. An expensive car repair can put a young family underwater. Thanks car wizard for great community service you’re providing!
Facts. I got a grand Cherokee but got a great deal on an extended warranty bc of a family friend so I feel better, still wish I got a 4Runner though
@@mattbrown942 Just take care of it (stay on top of maintenance) and you should be fine
best as a young family is to buy an old car which type and engine was known for its reliability, get it used if there are not to much miles on it it will last forever. Sure old cars dont got certain electronic features which are nice but better than nothing.
My first car was a VW caddy from 2001 shitbox which I bought for 2 grand overhere and it never died, sold it one day after using it for 4 years.
Also stay away from most new cars they are build like dogshit and expensive af. Got a job in engineering and the engineers I know who got expensive cars (Mercedes E class / R class, Audi, Jaguar, BMW) which crap out after around 80'000 km all due to transmission deaths is beyond madness. These cars overhere are all above 100'000 euros mind you (besides the E class).
Sure old cars are ugly but at least you dont need to sell a kidney to pay for the repairs
@@dergunter1237 Toyota Matrix and Pontiac Vibes are great for first time families. I own 2 lol.
Just watch Scotty Kilmer and only buy Toyota or Honda.
Love your info. I'm 70 years old, and drive a 2002 Buick Park Avenue with a 3800 engine. It has over 208,000 miles and runs like a new one, but I service it faithfully. I've had things go wrong, but usually normal wear and tear. I hope it will last as long as I do.
Ron. The EGR failed on mid 1990's 3.8 when GM switched to a composite intake manifold. I applied retrofit kits that made an air gap between the manifold and EGR pipe. The dealer would install a new manifold for about $1100. I think GM went back to alloy intake on later models. The 3.8 was introduced in late 1970's and went through about 4 generations till the early 2000''s when replaced with the 3.6 (push rod to four overhead cams).
Wish you live for many years and you car runs good along with you
I've also got a 3800, in a 96 Camaro with a 5-speed manual transmission. I find the whole car is actually pretty cheap and easy to work on, and I'll choose it over a 5th Gen 3.6 Camaro any day of the week.
@@marccrotty84479
I thought the same about my ex wife, serviced her well but in the end she left and it cost me more than she was worth. I was faithful, had things go wrong and hoped things would last as long as I do but alas, it was not to be.
"scrap metal on wheels" Great description! Thanks
I absolutely love how laid-back you are-no need to yell and throw your arms around. Also, you frame things in a positive way like, "25% of people maintain their vehicles." Thank you, I'm subscribed.
"throw your arms around" are you talking about Scotty Kilmer?
@@bast4rdlyreaper Scotty who? 😀
😄😁
Scotty always begins after 12 cups of coffee
Scotty and his transition lenses. Can’t take the dude seriously.
"25% of cars are maintained properly so 75% of cars that you might look at to buy are problems waiting to cost you money. I think it's worse than that though because the well maintained cars tend to be KEPT, not traded in or sold. Or they tend to be handed down to family members etc. Very helpful video. Thanks for posting it.
You got it
Also what happens is when they land on a dealers lot the dealer calls his buddy or family and sells it to them. It never even goes out for sale.
@@AmandaHugenkiss2915 Good point.
BINGO!!!!! I feel truly sad for people who want or have to buy older vehicles. I saved great gobs of cash by driving older cars for 50 years and fixing them myself. Todays cars are horrifically complicated needing expensive often exclusive electronic equipment to work on. Some things are better but all that much when you consider the price of the things.
Thats why i drive an 86’ and my so. Has a 91 s10. Stupidly simple efi. Bulletproof drivetrain. I got 300k out of my last 4.3. The body rotted off . Still ran like a champ,
What a great video. Thank you.
I used to work for a car rental company 20 years ago. We provided a lot of rental cars for people having their cars serviced at a Chevy dealership. I was making decent money and wanted to buy my first car, so I asked the service manager if I should buy a Tahoe or a Corvette, his reply was "buy any Toyota!" I laughed thinking he was joking, but he was dead serious. He said Toyota is the best car in the world.
He added: "when's the last time you saw a Toyota stopped on the side of the road? If you see a Toyota stopped, it either has a flat or ran out of gas, it didn't break down." He was and still is right.
Toyota is tied in with General Motors. Case in point, the Chevy GEO PRIZM is nothing but a Toyota Corolla and both cars take Camery break pads. The Pontiac Aztec is made by Toyota. Chevy, Isuzu, Toyota, Suzuki, Daywoo, Saub and Hummer are all tied in with General Motors.
@@danbasta3677 the Pontiac Aztek is 100% GM. You're probably thinking about the Vibe. Apart from the Prizm, the Vibe and the Chevrolet Nova of the 80s, every other car is 100% GM.
@@danbasta3677 Pontiac has been dissolved. Any ties between Toyota and GM as long dead. It’s be like me saying Mitsubishi and Chrysler are still working together because they did in the 90s/2000s
Toyotas break down too, a lot I see them at the shop all the time.
Every automaker pushes out the occasional turd.
I appreciate the bluntness and honesty. I respect the effort to help and educate. I saw a video yesterday and subscribed right away--thank you! I had a 1996 Toyota Corolla until 2021 with 365,000 miles on it. Those mid-90s Toyota engines were very durable. It was the body that forced me to get a new car, not the engine.
Same. I just reluctantly retired my ‘99 RAV4 because the frame is rusted through like Swiss cheese. Not safe to drive so I gave it my brother-in-law to turn it into a snow plow on his acreage.
Thank goodness for people like you and Scotty Kilmer for being honest and steering people away from crappy vehicles.
You had me till you said Scotty Kilmer lol 🤣
Yep Scotty knows his stuff well! Auto giants try to sue him for speaking his mind
Rip Scotty😞
LMAO Scotty Kilmer ain't shit.
@@DeezNuts-sx9jd You're an ignorant fool
I was a shop foreman for awhile at a garage in a small town. EVERY SINGLE VEHICAL he stated in this video is dead on. Before this video started, there were several vehicles I was hoping he would mention. And he did not disappoint. The vehicles mentioned in this video are the mechanic's bread and butter.
' vehicle '.
Really the 5.6 from Nissan?
@@experimentchannel9692 I had a few 5.6L I've worked on. Most of the engines were the 5.4L Ford 3 Valve. The newer Hemi engines. Eco Tech GM, inline 4s. A lot of V6 engines used in the dodge caravans. 6.0L and 6.4L Ford Diesel. a few 5.9L Cummings. etc. Dodge and Ford was by far the most common vehicles with severe engine problems. The worst I've seen from a 5.6 were chunks in the cylinders, never knew how that happened.
My God. Imagine the people who struggle to buy a car, and end up with one of these. Great video!
they just see one of these for cheaper and think its a good deal but you get what you pay for.
I know a family that bought a Chevy Cruze, and the turbo went out, knee deep in a full on renovation, the husband is working in a different city and the wife has to bikie to work because they still owe money for the car.
@@richardparnell8402 Research is paramount with these modern junkers.
@@unclebob7937 yes for sure.
They should’ve gone with a high mileage Toyota that is too old for factory Bluetooth music streaming or the trusty old GMT800 GM truck or full size SUV for the same amount of money instead. A 2008 Corolla may be ancient but at least you won’t have the headaches from a 2015 Chevy Cruze.
I had a good run working in a shop as both owner and worker for over 50 years. I sure would hate to have to face what mechanics do today. The Car Wizard is spot on in this video.
I turn 77 in a few months and even though I can still work its not on vehicles anymore.
I started working for my dad in the shop I own today in 1961.
I still love repairing things but now its things much smaller like golf carts and lawn mowers. Those are the ones I buy and not for customers anymore. Got to stay busy doing something or you won't last long.
Agreed. I am 77 and still working.
Thank you for sharing
I own a 72 pontiac grandville. 455 with a quadrajet and let me just say that this car is the absolute best car I've ever owned. Super simple to maintain and repair. It sat for 20 years before I got it. I rebuilt the carb , new water pump and fuel pump , timing chain, added dual exhaust and some boxed rear upper and lower control arms . Replaced all the worn joints and bushings. Engine is original other than an upgraded small hei distributor. This car is an absolute dream to drive . Pillow soft riding comfort and enough torque to pull tree stumps. What a great car.
I never thought I'd be "That Guy" on the internet, but the 3-valve 5.4L V-8 wasn't ever used in the E-150/250/350 Ford vans. They only ever got the 2-valve engine, which is vastly less problematic. We had nearly 40 of them in our fleet, all went 250,000 miles on the factory engine and transmission.
The 3-valve disaster zone was only ever put into the trucks and SUVs. That being said, I can't fault Car Wizard for getting this one tiny bit of trivia wrong. And I would never, ever claim to know more than he does! :)
you are correct , i have a 2 valve 5.4 in a 2001 e 350 no problems , wife has a 3 valve 2007 sportrac and i keep telling her its doomed and it has to go
🤓
I had a 96 e250 and the engine outlasted the body.
Yeah the 2 valve 4.6 and 5.4 were reliable as hell. Not so much with the 3v and 4v
Just got a 2018 Nissan Murano with 20K miles. After Mr. Wizards warning about the CVT transmission issues , I had the AT fluid changed. Sure enough, the old fluid was JET BLACK! MY CVT will be serviced every 20K like clockwork! Thank you Mr. Wizard for the warning that CVT transmissions are 100% maintenance intolerant!
I joined a Nissan Pathfinder forum to see what user experiences were with the CVT. The consensus is similar to yours: change the fluid every 25K or two years (whichever is first). It’s a lot cheaper doing that than replace by the CVT. (Fortunately, Nissan has swapped the CVT with a 9-speed automatic made by ZF in their totally overhauled 2022 Pathfinder model.)
@@JBM425 I've not heard anything good about the ZF nine speed either, it's probably why Honda is trying to replace it with their own in house built 10 speed.
Muranos are an absolute timebomb with the power steering pump problem....Good luck with yours though.
@@damilolaakanni Its a different 9 speed in the Pathfinder
@@elizabethmiller7918 it's the same ZF nine speed that FCA and Honda uses. It might be tuned differently, but it's the same one. Check reviews of the 2022 Pathfinder and you'll hear it.
You’re the best straight forward to the point gave a simple explanation of every vehicle that you talked about. Really appreciate that.
I can see the Wizard sitting down with a customer on that couch using the comforting and soothing voice of his to break the news of a $7,000 auto repair.
LOL!!! So true!
I took your advice, walked away from a Rogue / Outlander options and bought an 11 year old Toyota Highlander with a full service history. Doesn't feel over a decade old and goes like silk. It's a tank minus the turret. Thank you!
You made a fantastic choice and saved yourself a ton of headache.
its a tank minus the turret and you know tracks
He said to run not walk
Reliable yes a tank No it’s built off the Toyota Camry platform
A tank is nowhere near as reliable as a properly maintained overbuild truck like that.
Just ask Car Wizard, he used to work on 'em!
‘Buy these, not those’ are my absolute favourite. I sincerely appreciate your honesty. Thank you!
I can feel the anger and the frustration and the passion. I love how much you care
Way to go, Wizard! This is your best video yet. Exactly the sort of information every car owner needs!!
Before watching, I bet the GM 3.6L V6 is somewhere on this list! 😅
Pick up that phone, because you called it!
I'm calling Ford 5.4
You're absolutely right.
There’s literally nothing new about this video. Just a repeat of everything car wizard has already told us
Northstar v8
I run a transmission facility in south Florida and everything this guy just said is 1000% correct. I was literally laughing thur all the cars because we are seeing the same problems and people saying the same thing. Then I give people the advice to stick to Lexus or Toyota but they don’t wanna pay the premium but then they will pay it when it comes to repairing the junk that they bought.
Toyota is much cheaper than most car brands at least here where im at.
Hi Jesse, I just left a comment a minute ago and then saw your comment about Toyota.
My husband and I are buying brand new next year, we need something reliable and something that can tow a caravan. We are looking at the Toyota Prado right now, what do you think of them ?
Any other suggestion would be appreciated, thanks from Jodie, Australia 🇦🇺
@@masondipple2650 where do you live? I'd like to buy a car there
don't like Honda?
@@swansfan6944 Cannot go wrong with a prado!
God Bless you for your honesty and sharing your experience. I just subscribed. I have a family with 7, Wife 3 -Daughters , 2-Sons. Your advice is Spot on. I’m a Repair Mechanic for Commercial Laundry Equipment but also work on our Cars and Trucks and love the challenge.
If you ever get to listing your suggested best years of Toyota Models that would be helpful. I took your advice and bought a 2001 Toyota Highlander Limited and it’s built like a battleship 💪. Because I’m 67 and did my first Head Gasket at 15-yrs. Old I can say Toyota’s Mechanical skill far exceeds anything else I’ve worked on. Thanks for confirming my thoughts. 🙏
This is the kind of guy I'd like to sit around a campfire with and just talk about cars for hours. I subscribed.
He did say the F150 with the 4.6 is the better engine in the late model F150 trucks! 👍🏽
Me too
I like that you advised on a family of power trains rather than specific models. Your advise comes from decades of experience saving us hard-earned money. Thanks.
You’re right about the 5.4 engine. I owned (2) F-150’s with this motor . Both were highly maintained and still had phaser issues . The first one cost $6000 to fix . The second one never broke down but sounded like a diesel engine for 150,000 miles .
I spent thousands to keep mine running and still had to replace the engine after 140k miles . The new engine died after another 45k.
And exhaust manifold bolts breaking and being a nightmare to remove.
I have a 2018 f150 for a work vehicle and it also sounds like a diesel and especially at start up. The rear axel also had the pinion seal leak at 30k and then the differential got shredded at around 115k. The dealer rebuilt it for 3500 and our mechanic put it back on. At about 130k the stupid pinion seal began to leak again. And now this truck is at about 143k and sounds so bad at start up. Unfortunately all of our F150 fleet sound like diesels to some degree or another. Nobody else in our fleet had my same differential problems but you would think Ford would get it right some day. I wish our fleet would go to tundras
@@mattwalmer6162 I surgically removed the broken Exhaust Manifold Studs with the Rescue Bit. I only needed a Thread Chaser to clean up the existing threads. It was a piece of cake 🍰
ist that the same engine as in the 5.4 Mustang GT 500 ?
Love this guy and Mrs wizard keep the videos coming
I was a tech at a CDJR dealership for a few years. Most of our business was the 3.6 doing really dumb things. The oil cooler leaks, the heads, lifters, coolant issues, etc. He's not joking when he says few people are doing regular maintenence on their vehicles. Had a 3.6 with 90k miles on it was full of sludge.
Dodge will replace the cracked head up to 150k miles. Got mine done at 149k and the service manager was pissed 😂. Great vid dude
He can suck it. They should stand behind their products without complaint
Perfect time to have it done get the longest life
Yes but the new head they put on is the same as the old one! The new "robust" head is no different. The Navistar 3.6 has had this problem with the left head since day 1 and they are hush hush releasing any info about the problem. I think they rushed to get the motor done and released it knowing that they would get it back with an issue. The marketing they used to promote this state of the art engine was impressive. They left out the oiling issues, the "tick of death" and the other problems with the cooling system. And I read customers loosing 3 to 5 mpg with the head recall.
There's tons of info online
@@davidkeller4841 oh yeah definitely a temporary fix. Right now 220k miles and my dashboard is lit up like a Christmas tree lol. Going to run it until the wheels fall off and then crush it.
@@davidkeller4841 I would never buy a gm ford or fiat Chrysler product I honestly don't see why people still buy that junk
Wizard, that was brutal -- Thank You for putting your knowledge out to everyone. It's just so refreshing to hear the real deal about something. No Bull-oney!
It’s funny he mentions a Nissan Cvt! I currently drive a 2011 Nissan Altima owned it since new! It has 325,000 miles on it and has the original transmission in it! The only problem I’ve had with it was the cooler line broke and all the fluid came out! Replaced the line refilled I’ve put 10k on it since then! I’ve been waiting for the day the transmission goes out! Cause of all that I’ve heard and read! This one refuses! 😅
Many people same the same thing, that they had no problems. I hope I will be one of those fortunate drivers. I have a 2023 Nissan Kicks. It will be a year old in a few days. It has been a pleasure to drive. Other people with other brands complain about their sensors. Thus far, mine work wonderfully. I plan to change the transmission fluid and filters at 20,000 (or sooner if needed). It had its first oil change at under 3,000 miles. Car Wizard owns a Cube with a CVT.
Love these type of videos from the Wizard. The good news for me is none of these vehicles aren't, weren't nor ever would have been on my list.
All I have to say this man is: much respect to you for your honesty. I drive nothing but Toyotas. Mockers call me Collector, and this because I have a 2011 Corolla that’s still running amazing, a 2015 Toyota Sienna (I’m married to it 😊), and 2015 Highlander. No headaches with these cars!!! A friend who has been a Ford Tech for over 22 years told me, "Buddy, never buy a Ford." Having worked at the Ford dealership for over 22 years he drives nothing but Toyotas and Hondas. That tells you something!!! Thank you, kind sir…
I bought Ford most of my life. I didn't know any better. I thought everyone had to repair their vehicles continually. That's how I learned a lot about maintenance. They break so often I was always repairing something. Finally, I bought my wife a 2014 Honda CRV. Now I drink iced tea and sit in the shade. I should sell my tools.
ford is a nice car to buy if you want to become a mechanic. everything on it breaks, multiple times
Bullshit
Well I am a Ford man. I got some of it from my father and the rest working at an automotive supplier. Ford was our biggest pain in the ass for demanding quality. I agree they have been puting out some bad stuff lately. I tend to go with their ancient successes.
300 cubic inch sixs were bullett proof, 2300 4 cylinders I have hit 300k miles with and I strongly favor the 460 over the 454 for big horsepower reliability.
The 302 was one of the most fuel efficient gas engines in brake horsepower per pounds of fuel per hour the SAE books recorded. The 3 valve modular engines and a few others are junk I agree. I like Chevy 4.3 V6s and have owned several Dodge diesel pickups (standard shifts)😁.
Well, I got a '03 windstar with the 3.8 and it has never been taken apart!!! Sure you get the normal stuff like suspension and crap like that, but, the engine and trans are original and it fires up on the first crank!!!
The key is to look after them and make sure the fluids are clean and the filters are replaced regularly.
I have a personal vendetta against GMC acadias. When I first purchased mine my mechanic told me to start saving for the timing chains and transmission and man was he not wrong
It’s too bad because the Acadia is a great looking, nicely sized suv. 😢
@@justaviewer111 It does look nice. Too bad it is junk.
I bought my 2015 used had my mechanic install a transmission cooler. Two years later the whole air conditioning system had to be replaced. Then the radiator.Then the power steering pump. When the transmission started slipping I got rid of it . I replaced it with a 2009 MDX with twice the miles, paid 9450 cash. I follow regular maintenance and the timing belt has been replaced.
I'm a recently retired auto tech of 40 years and can't argue with any of this. Got to where doing timing chains on 3.6L GM, (mostly Acadia/Traverse) I could almost do them in my sleep.
I'm with you brother, I'm at the point where I don't even discuss good vehicle purchases. I used to tell friends, and family, go with Toyota, Lexus, or Honda. I do my research. I'm not a mechanic buy being an expensive purchase, I do care about how I'm spending my money on a vehicle. Look what's on the road, many people just don't care to do a little research to save themselves a lot of money. So frustrating to me. Keep spreading the word. Maybe a few will wake up.
Haha, same here. I’m always telling my friends and family Toyota or Honda. Yet so many ignore that advice.
I've been a mechanic for 221 years and this guys is spot on
iHA! newb novice, my Dads uncles stepson cousin's aunty has been a mechanic for 300 years!
221 years wow how old are you?
@@martinfarrell5778 …way to kill the humor
😂
@@martinfarrell5778 bout 350
I have owned many vehicles during ,y 78 years of life..The WIZARD definitely knows his business. He has saved me from losing alot of money on expensive repairs..I hope that he will consider writing a book. Thank you WIZARD ,
I watch Hoovie for a laugh/fun but the Wizard for actual car knowledge/advice. Really enjoy both of their videos.
👊🏾
So refreshing to hear real honesty, you are a wizard!
I started my auto repair business in 1969. Often, clients would call on me to recommend a car or truck for their next purchase. Suggestions were easy because there were many good choices in the marketplace. However, through the years, vehicles got costlier and more complicated to repair, while quality went downhill. As the years passed, it became easier for me to tell them what not to buy.
No coincidence that over these years more & more vehicle components & parts have been made outside the US.
Do you have any suggestions on what to look out for on 2004-2007 volvo s60r's when buying one?
@@bren.nan_ I haven't heard anything bad about them, but speak with people who have owned one, or go onto the chat lines from Volvo owners.
@@jupitercyclops6521 Several parts manufacturers that we dealt with for years, started supplying poor quality parts that ended up causing problems for the end users. When we looked into the problems, the reason was that many smaller manufacturers were bought up by bigger companies, and production in the USA was shut down, and moved to China. The Chinese might make good eggrolls but their auto parts industry sucks.
@@jupitercyclops6521 that, and planned obsolescence. Shit ain't built to last, for a reason. Perfectly happy with my 96 jeep Grand Cherokee, with AMC drive train. Also happy with my 88 7.3l international and my 96 7.3l power stroke. Those were the days that durability was the highest, marketed goal. It was after 2000 that they saw longer-lasting cars, resulting in less new cars being sold. It became unprofitable, over night. In the last 20 years, I can't find more good than bad. I seen a brand new Silverado totaled out, over their flimsy, aluminum bed. I've seen a 95 Ford ranger reach 500,000 miles, after falling off a cliff in WV, at 345,000. And I live in NC. Saw it at its 500k mark and heard the full story. The 80s and 90s was a prime time for bullet-proof vehicles, after the disappointing 70s. The 50s and 60s are even reliable and cheap. But newer vehicles are as disposable as toilet paper, while having more bells and whistles(that will all break) than a freaking aircraft carrier. It's gone to hell. That's why I keep my reliable vehicles, and stay away from "progressive" vehicles.
As an owner of a 2014 Enclave, at 140,000 miles it's still running well. Granted the owner before me as well as myself maintain this car meticulously. I had already bought this vehicle before discovering the issues through your channel. Now, I make sure I don't miss a service and even take it in early when I feel the need is there.
I also have a 2014 Enclave. 107,000 Miles currently. I have owned it since 34,000 Miles. I meticulously maintain the vehicle (trans fluid changed twice already for example). These engines are hard on oil. Fortunately though, the owner can simply change to the oil as needed and have a great engine. I do. Oil life hits 20% (about 5,000 miles/6 months with my usage) and I change it with Mobil 1 High Mileage combined their 1 year/20,000 mile filter.
@E.J. Roe I also just went through and had my trans fluid done. Not sure that had ever been done before but got it done since the fluid was in OK shape and didn't smell burnt. All fluids have been done on mine except for the diff fluids. That's next on my service list. After that it should just be maintenance from here on out. Everything else is in good shape. No leaks either.
I would still go bye bye 👋
As a tech that worked in a GM dealership for 5 years GM 3.6 and GM 1.4 are two of the worst engines ever made. That said our customers that did 3000 mile full synthetic oil changes “USUALLY” avoided timing chain issues on the 3.6. I had a sonic with the 1.4 and can tell you even with meticulous maintenance I couldn’t keep the thing from braking constantly.
My parents bought a 2012 enclave new. We changed the oil ourselves every 5k. It did have the injectors fail around 150k. We they traded it in at 188k the engine still ran good and didn’t burn any oil. The transmission was failing. They bought a used Lexus and now years later that Lexus has 210,000 and it’s literally never had a problem. The spark plugs were original until about a month ago.
They did love the Buick! But Lexus is just better quality by far.
Maintenance is key! Cheers
Thank you so much for your information. You helped a lot of people staying away from traps. And I like Mrs. Wizard partnering with you, it makes the video more fun.
I want trap gf
I like this guy. He calls it as he sees it. Thanks bro.
We all could use more Car Wizards, Mr. and Mrs. in our community. Very genuine. Period full stop.
Thank you for your insight and honesty. You are a true asset to your community. From a happy Toyota Highlander owner 190,000 + mi. and going strong !
if toyotas are so good why did they use a rubber timing belt ///also what about the frames rusting in half/and rear end failures/
My 2010 F150 with a 5.4 Triton has 183k miles on both the original motor and transmission. I've still got the original cam phasers as well. Running strong still after 7 years of ownership with 120k miles driven by me personally. Maintenence is everything.
Nice 👌 mine is approaching 200.000 😉 196.000
Absolutely maintenance is key! My 2008 5.4 is at 160,000 no problems
My 2012 has 154,000 and is still doing great. It even looks great because maintenance has been done and taken very good care of. My new King Ranch is scheduled to be built on 8/18/2022, ordered on 2/15/2022. I’m keeping the 2012 because it still is awesome.
@@sprint2648 same 08, 110k miles all good except bad design stupid warped passenger exhaust manifold gotta go to the shop
07 F150 5.4 215k bought it with 125k just had the full timing set, rockers and upgraded oil pump done at the dealership just incase. I requested the old parts back for inspection. Oil changes every 3-4k with pennzoil platinum 5w-30 as Fordtechmakoloco recommends
Bought new 2014 Chrysler Town and Country 3.6 engine. Cylinder head replaced twice. When new purchased Chrysler lifetime warranty. ( no longer available) Over $13,000 of warranty work since new.
Dodged the 5.4 Triton F150. I was looking at one so I called my mechanic, he said don’t do it. Ended up with a 2014 F150 5.0. Had to fix the fuse issue but that was an easy fix. As a bonus it is a southern driven truck with zero rust.
the new 5.0 is a great engine..its a keeper!!
Hey Wizard & Mrs Wizard, I really enjoy your "Don't buy these" videos!!! 👍👍
Me, too.
What about Engines and transmissions we can buy, the 3800 series by GM, the 4.0 I6 and 2.5 i4 by AMC, the Non-AFM LS based truck engines, the 4.6 2v by Ford, the 5.7, 5.2 and 5.9 Hemi by Chrysler and 1.8 and 2.0 I4 by Toyota
@@brianlego98gaming The Car Wizard will do that installment of six used vehicles with these engines and transmissions, that you should buy soon. @ATX-CVPI told me that the 3.3 L and 3.8 L V6 engines from Chrysler are fairly reliable. They are used in the 2001 to 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan and the Chrysler Town and Country. Also, the 2.3 L and 2.5 L four-cylinder, as well as the 3 L V6 engines are excellent from Ford. This is the reason, that the older Ford Fusion's, Taurus', Escape's, as well as the 2002 to 2006 Mazda MPV (which uses the five-speed automatic transmission) and the first-generation Mazda 6 are still great vehicles to buy. The Mazda 3 with the 2 L four-cylinder engine is also a buy as well.
I like the don’t buy these videos but it’s time to do a buy this not that for Lincoln/Mercury.
@@brianlego98gaming And the K20/24 by Honda.
One of the best YT auto mechanics.. Salute to you and i wish more prosperity for you and your family. I appreciate all the knowledge and wisdom from you💪🏾
Definitely a much nicer guy to watch than that rude ford boss me idiot.
Yep, Wizard and Rainman Ray are both good at what they do
I had a 2011 Pentastar, no head issues for the 180k miles i iwned it. At 150k i went to put in new roller rockers and found the originals were all still perfect. Regular 6000 mile oil changes on Mobil 1 and lots of the problems people have wouldn't ever occur.
Had a '99 Ford F-350 with 5.4 Triton.It had a catering body on it from brand new. Parked it with 403,000 miles cause it finally gave up the ghost.....and it was the only vehicle I ever owned in 50 years of driving that would blow spark plugs OUT of the holes and sometimes with no warning stranding me and costing me lost wages. When all the coils and plugs were firing properly it ran like a top and burned absolutely no oil. Oil changes were done at 3,000 miles from new and transmission done at 253,000 miles. Problem is one can not maintain a vehicle that has DESIGN flaws. I wrote Ford a letter way back then informing them it would be my last Ford vehicle....and so far it is.
The '99 F-series had the 2valve version, much more reliable than the later 3valves.
@@chynacash3138 the issue with them he is talking about is the lack of useful threads in the head to hold the spark plugs in. My son has a 2003 4.6 f150 and had to make sure none broke coming out and also made sure to torque them to specs. This is literally the first time I've seen spark plugs having to be torqued so they don't blow out of the head. HAHA
Did you get a reply from them?
I love how when Wizard makes these Do Not Buy lists, the Traverse and Encore (aka Buick Chodemaster) always find their way onto it. You can set your watch to it. Lol.
The Buick marque just needs to die already. They had the perfect opportunity to bring back the grand National with that V-series turbocharged v6 Coupé they made a few years back.
@@stoneylonesome4062 they had some genuinely good cars in the regal GS and tour x, but nobody bought them. So now all that's left of them in the US is a bunch of mom-mobiles
@@stoneylonesome4062 The Buick brand is extremely popular in China, where there is no cultural memory of those awful Malaise Era cars.
@@stoneylonesome4062 I am still baffled as to why they got rid of Olds but kept Buick. When my inlaws bought a new car after 3 decades of new Oldsmobiles they bought a Toyota instead of going to another GM line.
Honestly Buick styling is pretty neat and I loved the look of their sedans before they went the way of the dodo.
Buick is just so shackled by GM it can't compete. It's meant to be affordable luxury right? People don't want that anymore. I don't understand why GM doesn't make it a performance brand like a budget Porche. But what do I know. In the end though Buick North America really needs some changes.
Pretty sure I've heard about overheated/failed turbine blades getting sucked back into the cylinders before, but this is the first time I've heard about an engine that can choke to death on chunks of its own cat converters. That's a pretty crazy failure mode.
I don't even understand how that is possible. Like, does the engine reverse stroke and start sucking in the exhaust? Makes no sense
@@thompsonwelds Not an automotive engineer, but from my enthusiastic layperson's understanding, this is how it happens:
Most if not all modern 4-stroke engines suck a bit of exhaust gas back into the cylinder and/or push a bit of gas back up the inlet manifold during the period in the timing cycle known as "valve overlap" when the intake and exhaust valves are both open. This is done to help manage combustion chamber temperatures and improve mixing of the incoming fuel/air charge, and also to improve scavenging of spent gasses from the cylinder.
It's all about managing the pulses in the exhaust system from each cylinder to maximise efficiency, which all works fine when there's minimal back-pressue in the system during normal operation. But if pressure builds up due to a blockage like a failed turbo or cat converter the pulses/gas flow get all fucked up resulting in more exhaust gas getting dragged back into cylinder alongs with chunks of turbine wheel or catalyst.
We have a 2015 Toyota Highlander purchased new, that except for oil & filter changes and the normal crappy OEM tires that only lasted 35,000 miles, has had zero issues with any other component. It currently has 79,000 miles with original brake pads. Shop says there's still about 50% wear on the pads and rotors look good.
Thanks for sharing all this knowledge. You're actually helping us to avoid a lot of headaches.
Can absolutely back you up on those Nissan CVT’s, my 08 Sentra’s CVT failed at 71k miles because the maintenance was never done. I performed the flush myself at 100k miles with Nissan CVT fluid, and the fluid with not even a full 30k miles on it was looking rough, and just barely glittery. It’ll definitely go out again, but I love that little car. You only have one first car, yknow?
We've had some bad experience with Nissan in the past. 2003 Terrano (not sold in North America) with a five speed manual. The first four years were great, by the fifth year it started to have issues. Alternators failed, clutches burnt (probably driver's fault), belts snapped for no apparent reason, and ocassional overheating, all with routine maintenance. The 2003 Pathfinder we got after that with the automatic transmission was better, but that had issues with the fuel pump. After those two it was Toyota/Lexus every time we bought a new car, and we've not had any issues whatsoever since then.
I have a friend who used to have a 2010 Nissan X-Trail and never had a problem with the CVT... Though I do agree that they're average at best (Nissan CVT) and maintenance is key!
My first car is a 98 camry. I only had small stuff done to it in the year and a half i owned it. I put around 6k miles on it since i bought it.
@@damilolaakanni Unfortunately Nissan had some severe quality control issues in the early 2000's through to around 2012-13. Quality control got better after that point, and while I would definitely recommend Nissans from that time period to now, they're still no Toyota. Pretty sure they're 3rd place runner up, though, which isn't too shabby. My poor little Sentra has those quality control issues too, one of the radio buttons broke years ago and replacing was just too much, so that button just hangs loose. Driver door panel arm rest had weak plastic that snapped and doesn't sit right anymore, etc etc. I'm still proud of that car, though, still meandering around town at 105k miles and 14 years old is good enough for me.
I agree with the first car part! But I did my research and bought myself a used Lexus ES330 for my first car. 180k miles, one owner car, 4 years ago. Last week I just crossed 280k and the only issue so far has catalytic converters , but nothing major to the far. My first car ever and I love it dearly, never gonna sell it. Hope to get at least 500k out of it, it’s still jn very good shape
Ha, I knew the Ford 5.4/3 valve would be one of these, though I thought you might save the "best" for last. I'm not surprised to see the horrible Jatco/Nissan CVTs got in, too. While any brand of car needs to be maintained to remain reliable, I think the big difference is that well made engines and transmissions can tolerate inconsistent service intervals with minimal impact to reliability and longevity.
I'm surprise he didn't talk about the north star
@@JDMHaze northstars can be fixed to be great again.. these other engines maybe not so much lol
@@silosis lmaoo Yes I did see the video where there's the rebuild kit for the heads on the north star where you re-thread the heads... But getting it secondhand ehhhhhhh idk lol
whats even funnier is having that truck in the background of this video
If you do not like to maintain a car/engine, use public transport or buy an electric car. Almost all the problems mentioned are lack of maintenance related except the 1.4 ecotec and the crackhead chrysler.
Thanks.some of this I already new but you gave me even more insight. It's amazing what these car companies are asking for some of these cars. And they are junk right off the lot.
I drive an 88 S-10 with a 5.3LS swapped and a TH-400. Zero problems and the smile factor is off the charts! Great video sir!
My dad's 86 S-10 is still going
Nice. Good to see those still going.
Love the S-10! My father had one with the 4.3 and it was a beast. Can't imagine what would be like with a 5.3LS!
Wizard I could hear you in my ear when I replaced the fluid in my wife's CVT transmission I wish people would take your advice. You help so many people. Thank you 👍I don't know why for some reason when I service my cars is like they are happy that I did. When I sold my truck to my best friend he said he bought my old truck because of the service history. I have him dates off every service and it still runs amazing.
Took a friends advice in 2011 and bought a Toyota - best advice i have ever gotten. I now own 3 trouble free Toyota trucks
Desperately looking for an '04 myself.
bought a 97 Camry 2 years ago and boy that thing has fewer issues than my 03 Saturn did in 2013 I live in the hills and those 4 cylinders could barely make it home. it still blows me away that my Saturn got me home its last day.
#3 here also
This slightly arouses me
Two Toyota trucks here. 12 in my neighborhood.
Anyone else out there watch this video and hold your breath waiting for him to point his finger at whats parked in your driveway? Hahaha
Great video, subbed
Pretty much every car my company uses as rentals are on this list, the amount returns we've made for engine problems is insane
A good buy is a 2003 4.8L Chevy Tahoe, mine thankfully has been well maintained with OEM mechanical and electrical parts (and no parts from O'Reilly or AZ). She's still kicking at 317000 miles. These vehicles are built like tanks and will last!
my brother inlaw has 350k on his, same tranny only a converter and reg maintenance
The older ones weren't bogged down by technology either. A friend had a Suburban about that year and got 349K out of the engine before it went.
My 03 4.8 is at 220k miles I drive the pics out her lol
Expeted beeing rcsb 4.8 5 speed
Or the 4.8 Silverado. 230,000 miles and still strong.
Even Scotty Kilmer agrees!!!
ua-cam.com/video/BPcSfGA7wtM/v-deo.html
Great video Wizard! I really love how emphatic you were in your advice. It makes me so angry they keep selling this garbage and taking peoples trust and cashing in on it. I have only bought my wife and daughter Toyotas for the sole purpose that I never want them stranded on vulnerable on the side of the road. Ever. I drive Chevy V8, not always happy with them, but it's too late for me, I was addicted long ago...
Thank you! I will bet some people do take your advice but you never hear from them. We have four Toyotas in my family for the reasons you are talking about. I just love the brand.
I''ve got the notorious Nissan Jatco CVT transmission in my 2010 Suzuki. 110k miles and performing flawlessly. Original fluid, never been changed. Smoothest , quietest transmission I've ever experienced. The secret to keeping these troublefree is not to accelerate hard from a standstill. No hole shots at stop lights, no flooring accelerator at merges. Once the car is moving you can accelerate more aggressively, just NOT from a standstill. THis is what causes the Jatco to self destruct. This is exactly the opposite way in which people drive. Most people punch the gas pedal at stoplights.
Mine was never driven hard - the car was not the type to drive that way - and it still failed.
Your car barely has any miles on it
This reflects what I’ve seen with friends, neighbors, and coworkers. Especially the Acadia GMC, multiple times. I’m one of the minority that maintains vehicles “by the book”. I can’t afford to break stuff, and doing this has kept even Fords running great for years.
I've had a few Fords, vans and cars, cheap to get parts. Relatively reliable but not Toyota reliable. But I've had Mondeo's for 2-5 years without a single issue. The Transit vans were good too. But I hear since 2010 Ford isn't as reliable??
@@Google_Does_Evil_Now I wouldn't know, I'm still driving a 1999! All my Ford's have been dead reliable, with one exception. Our 2004 Focus SVT was a lemon, with glitches since new.
@@Google_Does_Evil_Now the newer 10-speed automatics have issues but they're getting better each passing year. The Powerstroke super duties have problems like every other emissions choked diesel. The 1.6 and 2.0 four cylinders made up until around 2020 had major defects with coolant getting into the combustion chamber. As far as domestics go, Ford is probably the most reliable. But like any car brand, there will be problems from time to time.
@@jonlouis2582 1990s Fords are great. The petrols are under stressed and give so few problems. Modern-ish diesels with their exhaust gas recirculation etc I think can be a little annoying with maintenance requiring some parts, depends if it's worth it for the gas mileage.
@@STCWGaming do you think a deleted power stroke would be a solid truck to own?
Thanks to the wizards channel. I been watching for a while. I've learned a lot about what vehicles were good and not so good. Helped me pick my current vehicle.... A Toyota Tacoma. So far really pleased with it.
I try to keep up with my maintenance but yeah I realized many don't. I know it's expensive to pay someone to do it for you. I try to do as much as I can of the routine things to save money and farm stuff I am not able or not completely comfortable with to an independent mechanic. I feel like having a decently maintained car is going to sometimes save you money and more often headaches from breakdowns.
I have a 2013 Cadillac ATS 3.6L, purchased new. Zero problems in 10 years. I change the oil per the onboard oil life system. Typically about 3500 mile intervals (mostly short trip city driving). Also change radiator coolant and transmission fluid on regular basis.
they made impala's for 9 years with the 3.6 vvt for a reason. That engine worked, at least for that car. They would've scrapped it way sooner if it wasn't working.
The LFX & the newer LFY are boss! 🦾 it's the older LLT & LY7 motors that have all the problems...actually I shouldn't say older, GM continued to use the LLT engines in their Enclave/Traverse/Acadia suv's well past 2012 and they were still junk!
Alot of the issue with the 5.4 triton was that it was one of the first to use lightweight oil 5/20 and many people switched to heavier oil which destroyed the engine. Now its common place to use even lighter oil and the oil is much better now. We have had several for many years with no big issues.
Good point. And failure to change the oil was a big issue with these motors. The older 2-valve V8s could put up with that but not the newer 3-valve ones.
I thought switching to heavier oils was usually beneficial to engines that have lubricating problems? Feel free to bust out the crayons and explain it like I'm 5...
Thank you for a very educational video. The factory engineers should not have allowed these flawed designs to be done. Please keep getting the word out to us citizens on the dangers out there.
The manufacturers are doing computer simulations on individual parts - - making them thinner and lighter until they last just 100,000 miles. This saves material cost and vehicle weight and GUARANTEES the car is OBSOLETE and not worth fixing.
The engineers are leashed to the bean counters they want it to last till warranty is over then its not their issue anymore as it's your problem then
Thank you Car Wizard for the advice. I had a 2013 Dodge Caravan 3.6 V6 with about 124,000 miles on it. Seemed nice at first, but was short lived. After a few weeks it threw the CEL for the thermostat code. I thought eh no big deal and replace it. Was good for a month or so and the AC compressor would make like a grind when first starting the van. Then few weeks later it died on me coming to a stop and threw the cam position/crank position correlation code. It died a few more times after that and restarted no problem. But then also noticed it almost like shuddered coming to a stop. Took it to the shop. They tell me it likely needs new timing chains. I took it to get a second opinion at a second shop just to make certain. They tell me the same thing and that the transmission has metal chunks in it. After that I just figured, man I need to cut this thing loose. What a money pit!
It was an early run engine with issues that needed to be worked out.
Same things happen with toyotas.
@@TheSavage3.6 yeah. Like 1 outa of 100000
You sir are a gem and I much appreciate your honesty and the information. Thank you
I loved my 2017 Altima with 50,000 miles. I thought, wow, this is great but I started to get weary of the CVT. I sold it for a very good price to CarMax and bought myself a 2013 Lexus GX 460 with 85,000 miles. Other than gas prices, I think I will have this for 15 plus years.
That lexus is a solid car.
I'd take that trade any day. I'd probably go for the gs350 but who wouldn't love both
It’s wary, not weary.
Just change the trans fluid and filter per manufacturer reccomdations and th vcvt will be fine.
Oof man, you take care of that GX, your grandkids will be able to drive it
I've also been a mechanic in Switzerland for 40 years... And why have I been driving two BMW E30, 325iX, built in 1988 and 1989 ??? Have NO problems with it... My advice : NEVER ever buy a new car with this electronic garbage !!! These cars are no good, believe me...
Ahaa Switzerland. A very nice place to live..you must be a very good Mechanic!!
I’m not a mechanic, far from it, I do a little car maintenance but nothing deep in the engines. I have a 1985 Volvo 244DL, The classic sedan. Literally the engine is bulletproof. Four-Cylinder. I bought it used from my neighbor, it had something like 230,000 miles, and I put another 25,000 or so on it. The engine runs like new, purrs like a kitten, And gets 25 miles per gallon for one hell of a heavy vehicle.
E30 platform is a legend! It got me into BMW’s for many years. Unfortunately each successive generation has been orders of magnitude less reliable.
@@donabeyta252 I agree with you !BUT EVERYTHING is very expensive here not like in the USA... And if you are not good at your job, you have a (financial) problem in Switzerland....
@@steveperreira5850 A 1985 Volvo is a very good car, congratulations ! Take care of it !! What is produced after 1990 and up to now is all scrap, that's a fact !! No matter which manufacturer !!! For me, the BMW E30 are the last "real" BMW's... Luckily I still own two of them...
We had a 2011 armada with the 5.6 liter. Good engine and pretty decent power. Sounds really good. 160k miles and not a single issue. Kept up on regular maintenance. For us at least, it was a great engine.
I have a 2010 armada titanium ... bought it at 118k...has 145k now...have had no issues....oil changes, new tires and nissan idiot actuators needing replaced.
I've got an '07 Armada. I could easily afford a fancy new pickup or SUV, but none of them are as nice as my Armada. It's only got 96K miles, so there are many more years left for me to enjoy her.
I have a 2015 Armada Platinum pushing 400,000 mi no problems at all I love it
Got a 2016 Infiniti QX80. No issues so far. Great engine, lots of power. Gas mileage is what it is for a V8. Not great around town but I get over 20 mpg on the freeway. We just took a trip to Yellowstone and we were able to travel the 340 miles on 3/4 of a tank of gas. The interior is still immaculate. Now I know we take care of things, but nothing is falling apart. Regular maintenance and knock on wood, we can keep going another 8-10 years.
The 1.4T first gen is bullet proof, Wizard is talking about the second Gen 1.4 DI version. The LUV does have PCV challenges, however the market is flooded with intakes and valve covers. The valve cover is a literally a 20 min job and the cover is $50. The intake is straight forward and easy to get at.
Concur.
My 2019 1.4T is a bit wacky, but hasn't broken anything yet and I'm pretty religious about maintenance including the things that the manual says to "take to the dealer" for.
@@TheMarshall1016 Crazy what happens when you maintain your car and treat it well overall. I'm impressed that I still have the stock engine and trans. I got my 13' 1.4T manual with 20k miles and bolted on all available ZZP power mods, stock turbo max tuned (21-22 psi peak).
I purchased a junkyard 1.4T spare engine that is still on the engine stand since I put it there, in 2015. I bought the spare engine after I hopped up the car. certain I would blow it up.
This is because I learned how to calibrate turbo engines starting with the Cruze as my self teaching platform; and eventually became a development engineer in the dynos working on an OEM performance twin turbo engine project. I was already an engineer, just not doing engine development. This 1.4T engine can take a beating, it's experienced plenty of detonation.
I autocross race it, stock ball joints and tie rod ends, stock wheel bears all around, stock axles that's pretty impressive or I drew a long straw and bought a Tuesday car.
Opel in Germany designed the chassis. I've done a ton of work progressing the suspension into making the Cruze an unstable platform to improve handling and performance on the track. In stock for, it's a stable platform and that's good safe thing for non-racecar drivers and let's keep it that way lol.
Hondas and Toyotas will always be on the top my my list. Just bought a 7th generation accord with the v6 6speed transmission with low miles. Thanks for the video wizard!
toyota, yes. Honda, no. Had an odyssey minivan was the worst lemon I have ever owned. Many problems. I did have good luck with dodge caravan. Go figure. Also SE PDX
@@odomn depends my 04 odd still runs at 250k just fluids, oils,tires regular wear and tear. I do know about the Trans filter but hard to get to. Still the original one 🤞🏼
Honda transmissions cant handle the V6 power.
@@phxrsx that’s an opinion.. my ody still pulls but I take it easy 258k on . Back in the days it was a different story a beast . I did change shift sensors “ blinking green D” afterwards gone.
I think the Honda J series was/is one of the best V6 engines ever made.
Thanks for the heads up on the Armada, Im coming up on cats soon. It's also important to be careful with the stock transmission cooler, as it can get too hot, crack, and take on coolant, pushing it through the transmission.
This strawberry milkshake issue was mainly in Pathfinder, X Terra’s and Frontiers. Even towing 3000lbs with my 14 Armada in the mountains, my transmission doesn’t get hot. Like I said, cracked manifolds and blend door issues are the main ones as long as you do your preventative maintenance.
yea just fix it i install aluminum ebay radiator in the is300 lexus yea it has uss a few bolt holes were off center cost was very low 100.00 or so so i figured as much [china]but i fixed that i all ways up grade to so called racing aluminum radiator s
One weird engine I had was the five cylinder inline 3.5 L Chevy in a Colorado. I was so suspicious of that engine, but I got 220,000 miles on that engine, and only replaced the water pump (twice, but I think that was because the mechanic did a bad job the first time, because it wasn't even a year later, then it was fine the rest of the time I owned it).
I had a Volvo 850 5 cyl and thought it would die every day I drove it after 75,000 miles. It finally died after 260k miles.. After I gave it to my mom and she ran it into a semi truck on a foggy highway one day. Weird motors don't mean bad motors. Its just bad owners
I had a Colorado with the 5 cylinder too, the transmission went out at 244k miles, engine was still fine. It was a good engine for that truck. Made decent power and got 20 mpg in an ext cab Z71.
I was doing research and planning to own one of these
My 5 cylinder Colorado absolutely drank fuel ⛽ 😱... 2 transmission replacements and 2 head replacements before it hit 125k all hwy miles and never towed anything 😢
I used to get 21-22 mpg on the highway and about 15-17 around town, so not horrible but nothing to brag about either. My Hemi Dodge Ram 1500 gets about the same. And, I towed a 6,000 lb center console all over the place with that Colorado. I just made sure to always have it in tow/ haul mode, because I heard you could screw the transmission up quick if you didn't do that towing something that heavy.
Thank you for the heads up. 👍
As per your advice, my wife and I steered clear of the Buick SUVs we were interested in and you made mention of, so we settled on a Verano instead, and are also being very faithful on its maintenance. Again, thank you. 👌
Your video now confirms why I have had no issues with vehicles that have gone down in history as less than reliable. I always follow the maintenance schedule.
I'm really enjoying your videos and I think there's a lot of good info. I own a transportation company we use a lot of Chrysler vans with the 3.6. they're generally quite problem free. I'm surprised at these issues you're seeing with the pentastars based on my experiences.
Sounded like the Wizard said the 3.6 Pentastar head usually fails very quickly, like days to weeks, after purchase if it's going to fail. To me that sounds like a manufacturing quality control issue rather than a design flaw. So, if you didn't get a van with a bad engine at purchase, you're probably good for a normal service life.
same with the 5.7 litre hemi.
Does your company have mechanics that service regularly? Thats probably why. Good maintenance.
@@tevinabeysekera6038 we have good relationships with a local shop. We get our stuff worked on when it breaks. The Chryslers seem to spend less time in the shop than our fleet of odysseys.
Yeah Pentastar is solid. I have 225k on mine. Only engine issues I’ve had is the oil filter assembly housing which leaks on all of them over time and one bad cam position sensor.
Very well said! I wanted to make a little note that my parents have owned the GM 3.6 and currently own a Nissan 5.6. Both 3.6’s ran like tops for 260000 miles. You are absolutely right on the 5.6 though; they do get terrible fuel economy. They have to use premium gas as well! I watched your videos on diesel trucks, and I bought an lb7 duramax from my uncle. I know you said those have injector issues, but when I bought my truck, that issue was hammered out. It has 230k miles on it and still runs like it was new!
I like the GM 3.6l engine when they are maintained. Plenty of power, decent fuel economy. If you fail to change the oil, they can sludge like any other engine. Plus before covid you could buy some of those cars dirt cheap that had those engines.
@@mph5896 very good!
@@mph5896 The Ford 3.5/3.7 needs more than just regular oil changes. They also need regular coolant flushes as well because of the timing chain driven water pump on FWD models. Every 3 years or 30,000 miles the coolant needs to be flushed out and replaced with Ford coolant. Don’t use anything but the factory coolant.
@@atx-cvpi_99 No. Ford Gold antifreeze is good for about 80k. There is no difference for the water pumps on the fwd vs awd in the Explorers/Taurus. I have changed out these water pumps before, its not as bad as people say it is. Book time is like 10 hrs, so that will get spendy if you are paying somebody to do it. Last one I did I was able to complete it in 4 hours. Bigger issue is the PTU oil on awd. That should be done every 30k.
Nissan 5.6 in titans require 89 octane or flex fuel, only the Infiniti 5.6’s require premium. I had one back in the day in my QX56 and it lasted way past 300,000 miles
I've been driving Nissan Titans since they came out in 2004. I'm on my 3rd Titan now, 2018, with 80,000 miles . I have never had any problems with my Titans, and I set the cruise on the highway driving 80mph, getting 18mpg. to 19 mpg. On the highway and 16 to 17 in town.
Keep them serviced oil change every 3k miles ,transmission fluid change every 30k.
Run the highest octane fuel because it is a high compression engine. Running the wrong fuel is probably what's causing the catalyst problem. It's not the Titan it's the Nut behind the wheel.
You went through 3 Titans in that short period of time?? Even if you had luck (which I’m not sure you did) he even says himself in the video we’re talking percentage chance. Not every one will fail prematurely but it happens more than other vehicles.
I worked at a Nissan dealer and Titan engines were a job that all the techs were trained in on. It was a necessary skill to be a technician there. It’s a much bigger problem in colder climates.
I remember an equinox being dropped off with the 3.6l, no start. Turn the key for a second and you can hear the clanking and crunching of whats left of the lifters rolling around, so I stopped and decided the timing chain probably went bad. My "mentor" at the time sat there and kept cranking it over and over and over until the battery died, just listening to the crunching and grinding sounds from the engine.
It was really sad because they just bought the car for around 10 grand. My "mentor" at the time decided to have the heads re machined and try to laboriously repair the likely oil-starved engine instead of replacing it with a new drop-in engine, so they quoted the customer around another 10 grand for the repairs. They had to get a second car loan to fix the car they just took a car loan out for
That is a damn shame.
And this is another reason people need not to buy these vehicles, getting misdiagnosed makes it more expensive as well
I had a 2002 Monte Carlo SS with the 3800 Series II and that was one great engine. Got good mileage and had decent power. Too bad the tranny blew at 250K and the body was rusting out. Traded it for 2012 Impala with the 3.6L VVT, and I have to say, this engine has a lot more power and runs as smooth as silk. You just have to change the oil between 4 and 5K. Too many people would wait for the stupid computer to tell them when to change oil and that would be at almost 10K miles. THAT is why the timing chains and guides go bad so fast.
Can’t say my experience with the 3800 was quite as good lol
the Pentastar engine was around since before the FCA merger though, so it isn't a fiat engine
Correct; and a variant is used by Mercedes. Pretty much everything he said about the Pentastar is inaccurate; it is a solid engine.
@@tripkayne6645 Same with Nissan 5.6 its also a solid engine
I know that the 2010-2013 pentastar v6 had the issue with left cylinder head failures, then there was a revision which strengthened up the valve seats and valve guides that was causing the pentastar tick and the head issues resulting in a missfire. I know there have been some issues people had till 2015-2016 about then there was another revision for it I've heard very little issues about it. 2013 and Prior there was a warranty extension till 150k or 7 years, i myself have a 2011 Dodge Durango with the 3.6l with 170k very little issues. There are lots of examples of those engines with 200k + one recently hitting 600k miles before failure. They are fairly solid motors
@@MichaelRobinson-up6fo totally true, my Ram's got 276K miles and runs like a champ
@@MichaelRobinson-up6fo that was also a 3.8, not the current 3.6
Sounds like the auto industry needs to make some serious changes. How? Make them accountable for poorly built vehicles.
It's nice to watch one of these "don't buy" videos and know I'm finally not driving a Nissan with their dreaded CVT in it. I had four of them over time (08 Sentra, 09 Altima Coupe, 14 & 16 Rogue) without issue because I made sure the transmissions were getting serviced, but it's not much fun having that albatross constantly hovering over your head at 80-100k miles with no manufacturer or dealer warranty left to speak of.
So you had 4 vehicles with these CVTs never a problem, enjoyed the wonderful mpgs these CVTs confer and because of posts on the internet you got rid of them?
@@elizabethmiller7918 It wasn't just the ever-present possibility of the transmission failing, leaving me on the hook for thousands of dollars that I would not be able to produce all at once should it actually fail. It was just one ingredient in a tasteless smoothie.
That Nissan had never actually done anything about the CVT, only starting to move away from it in 2022 in some vehicles, while doing little if anything to evolve their fleet was a factor.
The "wonderful gas mileage" brought by the CVT actually being unexceptional and worse than much of the competition was a factor.
What became a worse and worse overall driving experience, in part because of how a CVT behaves, especially in the 16 Rogue, was a factor.
I could keep going. Honestly, I dealt with the overall "deal" far longer than I should have. I wasn't doing it again.
@@EXRagnell I've owned a 2014 altima with the CVT. Got 38 mpg on interstate when i was driving a bit faster, 40 mpg when i was chill and 42.5 mpg when i was really trying to get good mpgs. This is measured over along driving distance to account for short term blips in mpg up or down.
@@elizabethmiller7918 Personal experience and being a fairly conservative driver on the highway makes me severely doubt all of these numbers.
And even if I was getting them, somehow, that does nothing to address any of my other issues.
@@EXRagnell The Altima is more economical than the Rogue and about the same as the sentra due to better aerodynamics. It impressed the H. out of me while I owned it. I only got rid of it because it had a dent in the rear bumper and I decided I did not like its color after all. I know stupid reason..
Appreciate your insight. I have owned 6 vehicles with the 3.6. The first was a 2007 ,one of the first with the overhead cam 3.6. Bought it used. 40,000 miles, way out of warranty, Buick repaired the engine(cam chains) free! The car was 6 years old. The rest of my cars, all went 70,000 miles or more trouble free. 2008 Enclave, 2014 Acadia, 2013 Traverse(this one now has over 90,000 miles), 2015 Lacrosse, 2017 Acadia, now over 60,000 miles. None, I repeat, none ever missed a beat. The key is, maintenance, regular oil changes on time or before with correct oil and grade. All vehicles were serviced at GM dealerships. Be certain what type and grade of oil you using. I’ll be buying a new Enclave shortly. These cars were all trouble free.
So what you're saying is that none of your cars have reached high mileage. When I was younger I used to flip cars. Most cars I bought had over 200k miles. Some over 300k.
The same general lack of build quality is happening with major appliances these days. Built to be quickly and cheaply assembled...NOT designed to be repaired!
That is absolutely what these companies are doing. I highly dislike Apple for really pushing for this type of manufacturing process and company culture.
Just replaced an iPhone after only a year. Damn thing stopped connecting to the internet.
But they are much cheaper. A basic washing machine costs the same today as it did 30 years ago, although as you say nowadays they are a throw away item when they go wrong.
Thank you for discussing wrangle r3.6 engine. My JL wrangler 2018 has spent more time in the shop this year than in my driveway.