Now that people are starting to return to work, it’s inevitable that some will need some new transportation. If you’re one of the lucky folk that can afford a new car, my first tip is… don’t. Although I am generally opposed to generating car debt, I know some of you just can’t help yourselves. New cars have a feel of their own, and many can’t get enough of it. Since I know this about you already, I’ll leave you with the second-best bit of advice I have: The cheap car brands you should avoid.

Avoid At All Costs

Kia/Hyundai

Listen, I know Kia’s prices are insane. In fact, when you get to the dealer, the deals they will make for you are even more insane. Don’t fall for the trap, these cars are basically disposable. While Kia had some decent cars way back in the day, they have shifted their focus on being cheap, decent looking– and barely operable. They’ll feel good at the dealership, but once your warranty wraps up, the build quality will start to rear its ugly teeth. Kia’s engine recall list looks like the Webster dictionary, with major faults like engines that produce black sludge, to dangerous fuel leaks that can cause fires. Kia is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Group, and Hyundai brand cars have many of the same issues. With the same draw of decent looks, modern feel, and shockingly low price tags, newer Hyundai models will most likely leave you stranded almost as quickly as Kias.

Fiat/Chrysler/Dodge

Another instance of a dumpster fire taking ownership of a sinking oil tanker is Fiat-Chrysler. This one is probably even worse than Hyundai and Kia. With Fiat seemingly a year away from pulling out of the US completely, their reliance on the horribly-built parts of their subsidiary has been one of many downfalls. Just like the last pairing, these three brands own the dealership game. With the prices they offer, and deceiving looks, its easy to accidentally drive one off of the lot. Dodge may still have somewhat reliable flagship engines like their HEMI, the ensemble surrounding them make it too great a risk. Do not make this mistake, you will regret it.

Try to Avoid

Nissan

Recently, Nissan’s parent company announced that it saw $4 billion in losses. These losses were caused primarily by the Nissan brand, as they have fallen hard from their glory days of reliable Datsun vehicles. After being purchased by Renault, Nissan started to tank when it came to reliability. They have many of the same downfalls as the “avoid at all costs” brands, but their looks and practicality put them a little bit ahead of those. While being Japanese cars increases their perceived value on the resale market, you don’t even want to take the risk. Cheap plastic parts and transmission issues are the major downfalls with these.

What Should I Buy?

This is really up to personal taste. If you have to have a new car, save up (or borrow) a little extra for a Toyota or Honda. If you’re in the cheap car brand game, these two will give you a lot more bang for the buck. The fatter down payment, or larger monthly payments, will hurt a little; it will all be worth it when you realize you will be able to keep the car for twice as long.
Not only that, but the car will feel new for much longer, and be far more capable on the road down the line. There is nothing more valuable in a commuter car than peace of mind, and the build quality of these two Japanese giants will give you that in spades. Finally, if you decide you eventually want something new, resale values on Hondas and Toyotas are amazing for sellers.