Cars You Should Avoid Buying in Pakistan-A Guide by Auto 2000

Auto 2000 understands that the Pakistani car market has unique characteristics, shaped by limited buying power and a fluctuating economy. Just because a car performs well internationally doesn’t mean it will work the same way here. With that in mind, let’s explore the types of cars you should think twice about buying in Pakistan – unless you’re prepared for potential expenses and challenges.

1. An Old Range Rover

An old Range Rover may sound appealing, but in Pakistan, it could quickly turn into a mechanic’s dream – and a nightmare for you. There’s a common saying about Range Rovers: “If you want revenge on someone, buy them a Range Rover.” Why? These SUVs are designed to be luxurious, not necessarily reliable.

• Complex electrical components, sensors, and control modules
• Prone to failure due to design complexity
• High maintenance costs due to imported parts in GBP

Range Rovers require luxury-level maintenance that’s costly. The suspension, transmission, and engines are made for smooth roads, not rough Pakistani streets, so constant repairs are almost a guarantee. At Auto 2000, we caution against buying a used Range Rover unless you’re prepared for frequent service costs.

2. A BMW with an Oil Leak

BMWs are known for their powerful engines and premium design, but certain issues can arise, like the infamous oil leak. BMW’s engines, particularly in the M series, operate under high pressure, leading to oil leaks from the valve cover and oil pan.

• High temperatures stress engine seals
• Synthetic rubber gaskets degrade quickly
• Repairs are expensive, especially for performance models

Auto 2000 advises buyers to be aware of oil leak problems with used BMWs in Pakistan, as repairs are not cheap. Verify with a trusted mechanic before purchasing to avoid costly fixes.

3. A Civic X with Steering Rack Issues

The Civic X, despite its popularity, is notorious for steering rack problems. Honda recognized this design flaw and offered a free replacement in 2018. However, if you’re considering a used Civic X, ensure it has the updated rack.

• Civic X models pre-2018 may have steering issues
• Honda’s free replacement program has ended
• Costly repair if the issue hasn’t been addressed

At Auto 2000, we recommend thoroughly checking the steering rack of any used Civic X or negotiating the price if the car has unresolved issues.

4. A JDM Car with Airbag Deletion

Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) cars, like Toyota Aqua or Honda Fit, are popular in Pakistan, but some come with hidden risks. In some cases, JDM cars restored after accidents in Japan have airbags deleted to cut restoration costs.

• No airbag despite SRS label on the dashboard
• Likely involved in a severe accident
• Auction sheet verification can reveal D-grade history

Auto 2000 stresses that buyers should verify the auction sheet of any JDM car to ensure it hasn’t been heavily damaged. If airbags are missing, consider negotiating a lower price to reflect the true condition.

5. Sports Cars for Daily Driving

Though sports cars are flashy, they aren’t designed for everyday Pakistani roads. These cars usually have low ground clearance and high-performance engines that don’t fare well in local traffic and road conditions.

• Low ground clearance isn’t suitable for bumpy roads
• Engines require high-octane fuel, which is costly
• Frequent repairs due to unsuitable road conditions

Auto 2000 advises against using sports cars for daily commuting in Pakistan, as they require more specialized maintenance and fuel than typical sedans.

6. High-Maintenance Imported Luxury Vehicles

Many luxury brands, especially from Europe, require specialized parts and maintenance that can be challenging to manage locally. Imported luxury cars often end up sitting in repair shops due to part delays or high repair costs.

• Imported parts are expensive and may take time to arrive
• Limited service expertise for certain models
• Risk of counterfeit parts being used during repairs

Auto 2000’s advice is to prioritize locally popular, reliable vehicles for easier and more affordable maintenance.

In Conclusion

In Pakistan, choosing the right car involves more than just performance and looks; it’s about practicality and long-term affordability. Auto 2000 urges buyers to consider maintenance costs, local repair options, and durability before making a purchase. Investing in a reliable, locally favored car can save you from costly repairs and ensure peace of mind.