English 
Spanish 
3 min read
7 comments
Even with a history of heavy criticism, some automakers insist on technologies that could jeopardize consumer confidence. Recurring mechanical failures, such as those caused by problematic transmissions and oil-soaked timing belts, continue to appear in recent models. These automotive engineering choices have been a warning to attentive drivers.
The Instagram profile of Dr. Mauro Costa, known for revealing curiosities and warning about automotive pitfalls, raised the red flag once again. Among the highlights of the analysis are vehicles that run the risk of becoming real headaches for their owners. Check out some examples of cars with chronic problems.
Hyundai Creta Ultimate 1.6 Turbo with DCT transmission
The Hyundai Creta Ultimate 1.6 turbo, one of the cars with chronic problems, equipped with a dry dual-clutch gearbox, is among the brand's risky bets. Despite promising improvements, this technology already has an unreliable history in Brazil, with frequent jolts and overheating in models from other brands, such as Ford and Volkswagen.
Especially in large cities, where traffic requires constant gear changes, the transmission can suffer premature wear, compromising its durability and increasing maintenance costs. Even with Hyundai's guarantees of improvement, the DCT transmission still raises doubts.
- Chevrolet Vectra GT: The modern sports hatchback that combines style, comfort and costs less than R$40.000
- DER makes the final decision and decides whether or not to install an 'anti-scam' radar on one of the main highways in São Paulo
- Five used automatic cars for under R$50.000 in 2025 that offer comfort, economy and excellent performance
- End of an era: New LAW makes Chevrolet, Hyundai and Toyota announce the definitive farewell to 10 cars in 2025, leaving drivers surprised!
Chevrolet Onix and Onix Plus 1.0 three cylinders
The Chevrolet Onix and Onix Plus models, with three-cylinder engines, use the controversial oil-immersed timing belt. Although it offers benefits such as reduced noise and greater durability, it requires extra care. If the oil is not in good condition, the belt can deteriorate quickly, causing serious damage to the engine.
Reports of engine failures due to belt problems have already emerged, making cars with chronic problems a growing concern among drivers. Chevrolet reinforces the need to strictly follow the manual's guidelines to avoid losses.
Caoa Chery Tiggo 5X until 2022
Until 2022, Caoa Chery's Tiggo 5X was equipped with a dry dual-clutch transmission, similar to Ford's infamous Powershift. Problems such as overheating and jerking left many consumers frustrated.
Starting in 2022, the automaker switched to a CVT transmission, seeking greater reliability. However, those who own the previous models need to be careful, as transmission headaches are still a real risk.
Ford Ranger 2.0 turbodiesel
The Ford Ranger's 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine uses the same oil-immersed timing belt found in other troubled models. When not properly maintained, this part can wear out quickly, accumulating debris and compromising the engine.
For those who depend on their Ranger for long trips or heavy-duty work, the cost of improper maintenance can be high. This makes the Ranger, one of the cars with chronic problems, yet another example of engineering that has yet to prove its robustness.
Chevrolet Montana three cylinders
Following the same line, the Chevrolet Montana with a three-cylinder engine adopts an oil-immersed timing belt. Although modern and silent, the durability of the part in adverse conditions leaves something to be desired. For drivers who use their cars intensively, the risk of wear is a reality that cannot be ignored.
Alert for drivers
Choosing a vehicle involves more than just design and price. Mechanical reliability and the engineering behind the design are key factors in avoiding frustrations and unexpected costs. Pay attention to expert recommendations and, whenever possible, research the models before investing.
With cars with chronic problems increasingly in evidence, the consumer needs to be informed and ready to make safer decisions when buying. After all, no one wants a “bomb” parked in the garage.
Who would have thought that GM would include an engine of this size (oil-immersed belt) in its cars? It has completely lost confidence!
Just use the oil and carry out the changes according to the Manual. It is so reliable that GM has increased the warranty for the part.
It's easy to talk. The hard part is changing people's perceptions. Proof of this is the drop in sales.
You don't need to be an expert in mechanics to understand that the belt passing through the engine and being bathed in oil is a headache for sure, because when you change it you will have to open the engine and possibly have residue from the rubber that wears out over time with or without oil. This was invented to increase sales of parts and reduce the durability of the vehicle and force the consumer to change cars soon. The thing is that here is Brazil and not Japan or the United States, where after 5 years the car is practically discarded. They failed the consumer ****. The solution now is to correct the failure, not to mention that 3 cylinders on the road suffer. I hope GM returns to engines with 4 cylinders and a normal belt. But one thing for the record here, has anyone ever thought that in the era of hybrid or energy engines, because until now they don't make vehicles with a solar panel on the roof to retrofit the vehicle, which would increase the price by at most 5 to 10 thousand? You know why not? What would happen to Enel and other energy distributors? The solution is there for sustainability: ethanol and solar energy for vehicles and the development of the country and less carbon gas emissions. gasoline as a last resort or better to fill the engine tank for when you start the car.