Buyer Beware: The Least Reliable Cars You Can Buy Now

Everyone wants a reliable vehicle. Unfortunately, even big-name companies have cars that are known for having consistent problems. If you want to avoid a headache, here are the vehicles you may want to think twice about, according to Consumer Reports.

Related: Affordable Used Cars Most Buyers Overlook

Consumer Reports released a new report ranking the most and least reliable cars for 2023. To determine reliability Consumer Reports studies, “17 trouble areas, from nuisances — such as squeaky brakes and broken interior trim — to major bummers, such as out-of-warranty transmission repairs and trouble with four-wheel-drive systems.” The site goes on to say, “We weigh the severity of each type of problem to create a predicted reliability score for each vehicle. To be considered for this list, we must have at least two model years of data in calculating the predicted reliability score.” 

Related: These Are the Longest-Lasting Vehicles on the Road Today

Reliability Score: 24/100

Common Problems: On-road capabilities are sub-par compared to other SUVs. “Constant short motions make the Jeep jittery even on smooth roads. On the highway, the Wrangler is out of its element,” says Consumer Reports. 

Related: Why People Are Crazy About Jeeps — And Why You’d Be Crazy to Buy One

Reliability Score: 23/100

Common Problems: Mercedes-Benz may be an expensive brand, but more money doesn’t always mean a better product. The GLE has had numerous recalls and issues with the electronics, engine, keyless entry, and hardware.

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Reliability Score: 21/100

Common Problems: Like the Jeep Wrangler, the Jeep Gladiator is designed with off-roading in mind, but performance and reliability on-road are poor. Besides there being five recalls, the Gladiator has also had problems with the engine and transmission as well as the brakes. Failure of the power equipment and electrical issues are also noted as problems.

Reliability Score: 19/100

Common Problems: Despite its popularity, the Silverado has numerous problems that make it one of the least reliable cars you can buy now. According to Consumer Reports the Silverado has problems with the engine, brakes, and transmissions, not to mention the poor fuel economy.

Reliability Score: 17/100

Common Problems: Chevy isn’t on its A-game when it comes to this electric vehicle. Battery and electric drivetrain problems are both commonly reported issues for the Bolt.

Reliability Score: 16/100

Common Problems: Over 100,000 Ford Explorers were sold in the first three quarters of 2022. Despite this popularity, Ford Explorers are notoriously unreliable. Problems with power equipment, steering, suspension, and hardware have all been reported as have issues with the climate control system and the body paint.

Reliability Score: 9/100

Common Problems: The Sentra is a classic case of, “You get what you pay for.” The lower-cost sedan has issues with paint and trim and is a noisy ride. The brakes and climate control have also been reported by consumers to be trouble spots.

Reliability Score: 8/100

Common Problems: The Aviator’s most common problems include steering, suspension, electronics, and climate control. Cosmetic issues like paint and trim are also a problem for many buyers. Finally, there have been multiple recalls for seats, seatbelts, and engine rail problems.

Reliability Score: 5/100

Common Problems: Kona Electric owners have reported so many issues that it was the second least reliable car according to the most recent Consumer Reports analysis. There have been issues with electronics, batteries, charging, electric drive systems, and climate control.

Reliability Score: 4/100

Common Problems: Most hybrid cars are among the most reliable according to Consumer Reports. Not so with the Ford F-150 Hybrid. Many users complain about the ride and handling, not to mention the problems with power and electrical equipment and the drive system.

If you’re looking to buy a slightly used vehicle, buyer beware of these vehicles. Here are the least reliable vehicles of 2022, that didn’t also make the 2023 list, according to Consumer Reports. Vehicles that were on both year’s lists include Chevy Silverado and Mercedes-Benz GLE.

Common Problems: According to Consumer Reports, common issues are related to the automatic transmission which often slips, stutters, or even fails. Other users report issues with the battery draining frequently.

Common Problems: The most common issues for the Chrysler Pacifica are with the engine and powertrain. The engine has even been reported to shut off entirely at times. The hybrid model appears to have more issues than the non-hybrid.

Common Problems: It might be a shock that an expensive vehicle like a Tesla would make the list of the least reliable vehicles. The most major issue reported for the Model Y is safety concerns with the Auto Pilot mode, so be careful before letting this car drive itself.

Common Problems: There have been two major problems with this vehicle. One is with the vehicle’s infotainment system which often freezes or otherwise doesn’t respond or function properly. Another problem with the Tiguan is related to hesitations after cold-starting the vehicle and then trying to put it into drive.

Common Problems: Powertrain issues are the predominant cause of complaints for the Volvo XC90.

Common Problems: When buying a fancy sports car, users expect the best. Although not as commonly purchased, the Chevy Corvette has enough issues that consumers have noticed. There have been reports of transmission problems and leaky fluid as the primary problems.

Common Problems: Another sports car with reliability issues is the Ford Mustang. According to Consumer Reports, there have been issues with the brakes and brake pressure. Owners have also noted powertrain issues, especially with the EcoBoost.