When Yay’s Turn To Nay’s
A car purchase can shape your daily life, but some models spark more regret than joy. Expect candid insights and a breakdown of why these vehicles miss the mark—essential reading before your next ride decision.
Why Consumer Reports On Car Issues Matter
Consumer reports provide valuable insights into car reliability, helping owners avoid costly repairs and buyers make informed decisions. They offer data on common problems, safety concerns, and overall vehicle performance. The goal is to assess whether a car is a long-term investment or a potential money pit easier.
Common Issues That Arise
Cars often face recurring issues like engine problems, transmission failures, electrical malfunctions, and excessive wear on brakes or tires. Reports highlight these concerns and allow consumers to pinpoint models or years with known issues. This helps avoid unpleasant surprises, whether buying new or used vehicles.
What Car Owners And Potential Buyers Can Do With This Info
Armed with consumer report data, car owners can plan for repairs or maintenance before issues escalate. Potential buyers can use this info to choose reliable vehicles, negotiate better prices, or avoid high-risk models. Informed decisions lead to better investments. Here are the 40 you need to watch out for.
Worst-Case Scenario Of Ignoring Car Defects
Ignoring car defects from the start can lead to catastrophic consequences. A seemingly small issue, like a faulty brake system or engine malfunction, can escalate into a dangerous, expensive breakdown or even cause accidents. Prolonged neglect can result in total engine failure, costly repairs, and a severely reduced car lifespan.
2022 Chevrolet Spark
The Spark’s cramped interior and sluggish engine leave drivers wishing for more. Consumers frequently complain about unreliable electronics and poor safety ratings. In one case, the engine blew out once the car hit 1,500 miles. The infotainment system went kaput after the 4,000-mile mark.
Elise240SX, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Jeep Wrangler
Off-road royalty? Sure. Reliable daily driver? Not so much. Owners report uncomfortable rides and recurring mechanical issues. But that is not all because users also complain of crash sensor defects, welding-related issues, front axle oscillating, and gas overflows. Its charm fades fast when repair bills start piling up.
Benespit, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2022 Nissan Kicks
The Kicks promised value but delivered regret. Despite its stylish looks, drivers cite underwhelming performance and lackluster interior quality. You’ll find complaints about its frequent safety issues like steering failure, vehicle speed control, and forward collision avoidance.
2023 Toyota Tacoma
Toyota’s Tacoma’s reputation precedes it, but recent models miss the mark. Owners complain about the slipping transmission, bouncing while braking, and sometimes the car jerking. More consumer remarks show consistently low scores for power as well. For a truck with such a legacy, it often leaves drivers wanting more.
TaurusEmerald, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Ford Explorer
Spacious, yes, but the Explorer’s appeal dwindles quickly. Owners report frequent transmission issues, engine and cooling problems, defective rearview mirror system, poor wheel alignment, and issues with the infotainment. With such a car, adventure quickly turns into repair visits; excitement quickly disappears.
Elise240SX, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2022 Tesla Model Y
Futuristic but flawed. Owners rave about the technology yet grumble about how inconsistent the autopilot feature is an utter joke. Other downsides to this ride are its glitch tech, and the lights can be harsh on oncoming traffic. This is a case of sleek design that meets constant repairs.
Alexander Migl, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Volkswagen Atlas
The Atlas promises a spacious interior but comes with a list of caveats. Persistent electrical issues frustrate owners, while its below-average fuel efficiency raises eyebrows. Its bold exterior design may turn heads, but it struggles to keep up with reliability expectations.
Dinkun Chen, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2022 Honda Passport
While marketed as an off-road-ready SUV, the Passport falls short of delivering. Safety features malfunctioning and poor handling often disappoint drivers. Braking reliability adds to the list of concerns, as users have noted. This SUV may aim high, but it stumbles over its lofty ambitions.
Kevauto, CC BY-SA 4.0 , Wikimedia Commons
2023 Chevrolet Suburban
The Suburban’s sheer size and luxury features don’t compensate for its shortcomings because you might experience mechanical troubles and abysmal fuel efficiency. Users highlight a troubling pattern of dissatisfaction; they opt for other picks.
2022 Dodge Charger
This Dodge muscle-car vibe can be enticing, but its transmission, engine, and electrical issues leave some feeling shortchanged. Common complaints include shifting delays, power loss, and failed warning systems. Even the most enthusiastic speed demons may pause because sometimes, raw power just isn’t enough.
Reinhold Möller, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Subaru Ascent
A family-friendly SUV that misses the mark, the Ascent struggles with a stiff ride and ongoing engine and infotainment problems. Users have even gone to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to complain about its issues with forward collision avoidance, cracking windscreen, and shattering sunroofs.
Kevauto, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2022 Kia Seltos
When you get the Seltos, be ready for a few mechanical glitches with its engine and transmission. It gets worse because the parking gear also presents a headache. The glass quality isn’t the best, either. In short, it’s a car that offers style but falls flat in performance and comfort.
Damian B Oh, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Cadillac XT5
This luxury SUV suffers from frustrating infotainment glitches that constantly mess up with all the settings you set. Because of this, users reveal below-average reliability and satisfaction scores. When elegance meets inconvenience, even the allure of a Cadillac badge starts to fade.
Tokumeigakarinoaoshima, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz
As a truck-SUV hybrid, the Santa Cruz struggles to find its footing. What are its most significant issues? Limited towing capacity and seating. Space concerns, as highlighted by users, dampen its innovative design. It seems this hybrid leans more toward novelty than utility. Another downer? No USB/C charging ports.
Zeometric, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Luxury meets frustration in the GLE. Electronic issues and pricey repairs plague owners, with users frequently needing to see a mechanic for minor and major issues. We are talking about broken windshield wipers and missing parts. Some users also attest to hating the noise while driving.
Alexander-93, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2022 GMC Yukon
The significant issues with the Yukon are engine problems—stalling, oil consumption, and engine light. Then, its transmission faces issues like delayed hard shifting and slipping. There are also issues with its brakes, electric, suspension, etc. Bigger isn’t always better, as many have learned.
2023 Mazda CX-30
Even though this ride aims for a sporty edge, it falters severely. Owners often report issues with the car’s batteries, making reliability a concern. Then, there are several accounts of the car having electrical malfunctions. While the design is stunning, the experience of malfunctions leaves much to be desired.
Captainmorlypogi1959, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2022 Ford Bronco Sport
Bronco’s main issue seems to be braking, making this retro-inspired SUV charming but falls short in execution. Braking is a significant issue that gives even the most experienced driver a headache. The nostalgia of the Bronco might spark interest, but recurring issues can quickly steal the joy.
Alexander Migl, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Chevrolet Blazer
It is a car with a sharp design, but it hides some glaring flaws. Among the top are premature pad or rotor wear, faulty anti-lock systems, and annoying vibrations as you drive. Braking failure is yet another concerning defect. Style may turn heads, but this SUV struggles with reliability.
UltraTech66, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2022 Infiniti QX60
While the QX60 promises luxury, some owners claim it is far from the truth because it delivers mixed results. On the negative side, one user attests to experience issues with the electricals. For instance, the back camera went off while she was reversing. The navigation system is also highlighted.
Kevauto, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Grand Cherokee exudes sophistication, but recurring issues dim its shine. The dimmers are electrical glitches, and below-average build quality is a common gripe among drivers. Users rank its reliability disappointingly low, tarnishing its reputation as a high-end SUV. For its price, many expect a smoother ride—literally and figuratively.
Alexander-93, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Toyota Corolla Cross
When Toyota made the Corolla Cross, they had practicality in mind. However, this ride misses the mark on other fronts. Drivers complain about sluggish performance, constant breakdowns, and bare-bones interiors. User feedback also often highlights dissatisfaction with its overall value. While efficient, this compact SUV doesn’t excite or impress.
Alexander Migl, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2022 Audi Q3
This small luxury SUV leaves some buyers cold with issues like a leaking sunroof, timing chain problems, and battery concerns. Then there are the cramped interiors and high maintenance costs. Because of this, reliability scores also fall below expectations, leaving owners questioning their choices.
Alexander Migl, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Nissan Rogue
The Rogue’s dependability takes a hit, with a few recall cases. Owners frequently report engine, transmission, and forward collision problems. Having such a pattern of reliability concerns makes it less appealing despite its popularity. The Rogue has become an SUV with struggles to live up to its reputation.
Mr.choppers, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
2022 Chrysler Pacifica
Another car that struggles to position itself as the ultimate family minivan but falters with consistent electronic glitches is the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica. First, the costly repairs will drain your wallet on the engine, transmission, sliding doors, brakes, and infotainment issues.
Kevauto, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Volkswagen Tiguan
One owner reports a frequent issue they termed as a hesitation issue when they step on the gas pedal after a standstill. Apart from that, others attest that this car has a few electronic malfunctions and high repair bills. Looks can deceive—and in this case, they do.
Alexander-93, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Land Rover Defender
If you are up for a rugged car, the Defender is it. But can it really mask its issues? One user attests to failing electrical systems in the car, such as a faulty speaker and a malfunctioning control panel screen, a few months after buying. Users often express dissatisfaction despite its off-road prowess.
Fukswityu, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Lexus GX
Luxury meets an outdated design in the GX. Unfortunately, people have reported facing issues like doors rattling and a few parts that shouldn’t be moving. The good news is that Lexus offers an inclusive warranty and will fix your issues.
Charles from Port Chester, New York, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Hyundai Kona
It’s sporty and hot in all the wrong places: the double-clutch transmission. A user noticed this while they were on bumper-to-bumper traffic. Another attests that the headlights can be annoying since they do not illuminate the surroundings well. Moreover, rough rides and cramped interiors leave drivers unimpressed.
Calreyn88, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 BMW X7
In one case, an X7 user complained about the car’s anemic air conditioning system. The system isn’t powerful enough to cool the entire cabin. It also has issues with luxury on paper but comes with headaches in practice. Frequent electronic issues and high upkeep costs dominate user complaints.
Alexander-93, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2022 Toyota C-HR
Drivers of this car often complain about its blind spots and rear seat access. And that is just the tip of the iceberg because performance also leaves you yearning for more. Also, be aware that if the transmission fails, the warranty doesn’t cover it.
Elise240SX, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Mitsubishi Outlander
First, an Outlander might struggle with execution, with owners reporting inconsistent build quality and lackluster performance. The backup camera and the software might also be problematic, significantly reducing its resale value.
Tokumeigakarinoaoshima, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Dodge Durango
The Durango’s issue, based on clients, is that its horsepower is a bit too low. Then comes poor fuel efficiency and high repair costs. Reliability scores also fall short, mainly when cases of oil leaks occur at only 4,500 milages. Its drawbacks leave much to be desired.
HJUdall, CC0, Wikimedia Common
2022 Tesla Model 3
The Model 3 brings innovation, but owners report quality control issues and frequent reliability concerns. There are notable issues with the battery degrading, white seat staining, inaccurate navigation, road noises, and phantom braking on some cars.
JamesYoung8167, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2022 Kia Carnival
The Carnival offers a fresh take on minivans but misses the mark with a couple of problems. These span from seat comfortability as well as some infotainment issues. Owners also cite discomfort with its seating layout. It’s true that sometimes, innovation needs a better foundation.
SsmIntrigue, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Ford Maverick
This compact truck grabs attention but struggles with issues from the engine, electrical system, powertrain, and brake-related issues. Transmission issues and limited towing power also leave drivers disappointed. Users report mixed reliability scores, adding to its challenges.
RL GNZLZ from Chile, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 GMC Canyon
From the get-go, users attest that the car looks fantastic, but the trim contrasts considerably because of the plastic used. In a way, the Canyon’s rugged appearance doesn’t reflect its performance. Owners frequently cite build-quality issues as well as high price points.
42-BRT, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Acura RDX
The RDX’s 360 camera might be a huge letdown for those who appreciate clearer cameras. The fonts on the controls are also tiny for a few drivers. There are also a few reported electronic glitches, such as an airbag light coming on.
Alexander-93, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2022 Subaru Legacy
The most reported cases regarding the Legacy seem to be a cracking windscreen. There are also issues with the electric and forward collision avoidance systems. For a sedan that promises so much, it often delivers too little.
Dinkun Chen, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
2023 Chevrolet Trax
The Trax is budget-friendly but unremarkably unreliable because of its turbo engine issues. You might also face issues with the brakes and a failing power steering. Users often note that these lead to reliability issues, adding to the cons list. While affordable, its performance doesn’t keep it there.
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