OK, that may be a bit harsh. But the danger is that a translation that is out-of-date or badly done will turn you off the book. Many classic books whose translations are now beyond copyright are available for free. But these translations are, generally speaking, poor. To really appreciate these books, find a translation that is up-to-date and that suits your reading style.
For the Iliad, I have a preference for Richmond Lattimore. His is fairly true to the original and so it feels like an old story from far away, which I like. I think most people like Robert Fitzgerald better though?