Buying a used car can be fraught with pitfalls, especially when you’re shopping for a luxury brand. There’s a lot to consider when selecting the make, model, and year. Buying a used car also means researching problems other owners have faced. The seasoned professionals at Infiniti of Honolulu know the common problems many luxury brands experience as they age, and they know what to look for in a used car. 

A major problem when buying used luxury cars is the cost of repair. Due to the cost of the parts in vehicles like BMW and Lexus, routine maintenance such as brake pad replacement or even an oil change can far exceed the price of that same repair in a vehicle like Infiniti. Vehicles from Jaguar, BMW, Land Rover, and Mercedes-Benz all show up on “most expensive to repair” lists. They can quickly make up for the money saved in the initial purchase. 

Some BMWs from 2014, particularly the 335i, scored poorly in AutoTrader reliability tests. A common problem is the use of plastic parts as opposed to metal in many components. Most Japanese brands opt for the metal parts, boosting their reliability. Vehicles such as the 2014 Infiniti Q50 or the Lexus GS350 often score better in reliability tests. Between those two Japanese brands, however, the Infiniti surpassed the Lexus in a head-to-head test. Despite these vehicles having a higher profile than Infiniti in the automotive world, they’ll cost you since they don’t perform as well, according to these tests. 

Some models of Mercedes can experience electrical and mechanical problems. Since they are high-end vehicles, buying one used can result in major expense. S-Class sedans from the middle of the 2000s have a valve that can get stuck open, allowing rainwater to come in, which can damage electrical systems. The engine balance shaft from the 1990s and 2000s Mercedes usually need replacing, so if you’re purchasing this vehicle used, make sure this has been handled. 

In general, when buying a used car, the most important thing you can do is get a comprehensive repair and service history. Knowing what has been done to the car will give you a better idea of how long it will last and whether it’s worth the money. 

If you are thinking about buying a luxury car and want the best service and prices possible, call Infiniti of Honolulu today at (808) 836-0848. You can also follow them on Twitter or like them on Facebook for the latest lease offers and other deals.