Which Car Brand Has the Worst Problems?

There isn’t a single brand that universally has the worst problems, but across the latest 2024–2025 reliability and dependability studies, Land Rover and Rivian often land at or near the bottom, with Jeep, Chrysler, Tesla, and Mercedes-Benz frequently below average; meanwhile, Lexus and Toyota typically lead for reliability. The answer depends on how “problems” are measured (short-term defects, long-term repairs, cost, or owner complaints) and can vary widely by model and model year.

What “worst problems” really means

Before ranking brands, it helps to clarify what counts as a “problem.” Different organizations use different yardsticks, which is why rankings can diverge. The items below summarize how major sources measure issues.

• Short-term defects and build quality: Initial problems per 100 vehicles (e.g., JD Power IQS historically; now often captured via early ownership surveys).
• Long-term dependability: Problems per 100 vehicles over 3+ years (e.g., J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study, VDS).
• Predicted reliability: Survey-based forecasts of future trouble spots (e.g., Consumer Reports brand/model reliability surveys).
• Repair cost and severity: How much and how often cars need unscheduled repairs (e.g., RepairPal aggregated shop data).
• Owner complaints and recalls: Frequency and seriousness of complaints and NHTSA recalls (e.g., CarComplaints; NHTSA databases).

Because each metric focuses on a different phase of ownership, a brand can look good in one study and poor in another. It’s best to triangulate across multiple sources and, crucially, drill down to the specific model and year.

What the latest rankings show (2024–2025)

Consumer Reports brand reliability (2024–2025)

Consumer Reports (CR) compiles large owner surveys to forecast reliability by brand and model. In the most recent cycle covering late-2023 through 2024 data for 2024–2025 shopping, some brands consistently appeared near the bottom for predicted reliability due to electronics, build quality, or drivetrain issues.

• Often near the bottom: Rivian (early-build quality issues), Jeep (electrical/infotainment, drivetrain), Mercedes-Benz (complex electronics), Volkswagen (electrical/infotainment glitches), Tesla (body hardware, paint/trim, in-car tech), Chrysler (minivan-related issues), and Lincoln (electrical/tech).
• Consistently near the top: Lexus, Toyota, and usually brands like Acura, Honda, Subaru, Mazda, and Mini.

CR’s rankings are survey-based and can shift as models are redesigned. Early production runs of new vehicles—especially EVs with cutting-edge tech—tend to report more issues, which can pull brand averages down.

J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study (2024)

J.D. Power’s VDS measures problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) in three-year-old cars (model year 2021 for the 2024 study). It’s a snapshot of mid-term ownership issues across powertrains and technologies.

• Least dependable brand in 2024 VDS: Land Rover, which historically posts high PP100, commonly tied to complex electronics, air suspension, and accessory systems.
• Other below-average performers: Chrysler and several luxury marques with heavy tech content; Tesla has typically trailed the industry average when included.
• Top performers: Lexus and Toyota regularly lead, reflecting fewer reported problems over three years.

VDS emphasizes issues that surface after the honeymoon period—when infotainment bugs, driver-assist calibration, and wear-related faults begin to show.

RepairPal, owner-complaint databases, and recalls

RepairPal aggregates real-world shop data (frequency, severity, and cost), while owner-complaint sites and recall records add context about systemic trouble spots.

• High repair cost/severity: Land Rover consistently rates poorly for annual repair costs and severity; some European luxury brands also trend higher due to parts and labor.
• Patterns in complaints: Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep have long-running complaints about transmissions and electronics on certain model years; Nissan has a history of CVT issues in specific 2010s models; Ford’s 2011–2016 Fiesta/Focus DPS6 dual-clutch issues remain a standout caution for used buyers.
• EV context: Many EVs report fewer drivetrain failures but more body hardware, trim, and infotainment problems, affecting brand averages for younger EV-focused makes.

These datasets highlight cost and severity, not just counts, which is why brands with pricier parts or complex systems can look worse even if visit frequency isn’t extreme.

Why results differ—and what patterns to watch

Several industry-wide trends help explain why some brands appear to have “worse problems” than others, even when individual models perform well.

• New tech penalty: Brands pushing advanced infotainment, driver-assistance, and over-the-air features see more software and electronics complaints.
• Early production risk: First model years of new designs—especially start-ups or ground-up platforms—tend to have shakeout issues.
• Luxury complexity: More features mean more potential failure points; luxury brands often rank lower on problem counts despite strong performance and safety.
• Off-road and towing use: SUVs and trucks that are used hard can show higher wear-related issues, influencing owner-reported reliability.
• Model-to-model variance: A brand’s compact car can be stellar while its SUV or EV struggles. Always check the exact model and year.

In short, “brand reputation” is a coarse filter; the model, year, powertrain, and options you pick matter more to your real-world outcome.

Practical buying advice to avoid problem-prone cars

If you’re shopping new or used, these steps help you minimize risk regardless of brand rankings.

1. Check model-year reliability: Look up your specific model and year in Consumer Reports (predicted and historical) and J.D. Power VDS results.
2. Scan recalls and TSBs: Search the NHTSA database for recalls; ask a dealer for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) on known fixes.
3. Avoid first-year launches: If possible, choose a model in its second or third year after a redesign, when early bugs are ironed out.
4. Favor proven powertrains: Base engines and conventional automatics often age better than bleeding-edge options.
5. Get a pre-purchase inspection: A trusted mechanic can catch leaks, suspension wear, software version issues, and hidden damage.
6. Budget for ownership costs: Factor in known repair costs, warranty coverage, and extended-warranty value on complex luxury models.

Following these steps can cut your risk far more than relying on a single “best” or “worst” brand label.

Bottom line

No one brand “wins” the title of worst across all measures. As of 2024–2025, Land Rover and Rivian frequently appear at or near the bottom in major studies, with Jeep, Chrysler, Tesla, and Mercedes-Benz often below average; Lexus and Toyota tend to lead. The smartest approach is to evaluate the specific model and year, check multiple data sources, and verify with an independent inspection before you buy.

Which popular cars should I avoid?

Popular vehicles to consider avoiding include the Jeep Grand Cherokee due to ongoing reliability issues, especially with engine and electrical problems; the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid and other Chrysler models such as the Pacifica; the BMW 3 Series and the entire BMW brand; the Mercedes-Benz C-Class for its stiff ride and complicated controls; and the Ford Fusion and F-150 for the high number of owner complaints. 
Popular Vehicles to Avoid & Why

• Jeep Grand Cherokee: Opens in new tabThis popular SUV is frequently cited for poor reliability and a low score from Consumer Reports, with owners reporting engine, electrical, and software issues. 
• Chrysler Pacifica: Opens in new tabThe Pacifica, particularly its hybrid model, is listed among the least reliable vehicles for 2024 by Reddit users and is suggested for avoidance by Le Guide de l’auto. 
• BMW 3 Series: Opens in new tabDespite being a luxury option and thrill to drive, its reliability is questioned by Consumer Reports, who suggest alternatives like the Lexus ES or the Mazda 3 instead. 
• Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Opens in new tabConsumer Reports advises against this luxury car due to a stiff ride, long stopping distances, and overly complex controls. 
• Ford F-150 & Fusion: Opens in new tabThese popular Ford models frequently appear on lists of vehicles with a high number of owner complaints and are best avoided for reliability concerns, according to AAA. 

Why These Vehicles Are On The List

• Reliability: Many vehicles mentioned, such as the Jeep and BMW models, are known for chronic reliability issues and poor performance in surveys, making them risky purchases. 
• Owner Complaints: Some models, like the Ford F-150 and Fusion, have a large volume of owner complaints, signaling potential problems for prospective buyers. 
• Poor Value: Vehicles that are expensive to maintain or have poor resale value are also considered poor choices by consumers and experts. 
• Better Alternatives: Often, a more reliable and better-performing alternative exists in the same vehicle class, such as the Toyota Camry over the Nissan Altima. 

What brand of car has the least problems?

The brands with the fewest problems are consistently Subaru, Lexus, and Toyota, which frequently top reliability rankings by sources like Consumer Reports and J.D. Power. These Japanese brands have a reputation for reliable and long-lasting vehicles, with Lexus often leading luxury and Toyota leading the mass-market segment. Other brands that often perform well include Honda, Acura, and Mazda. 
Top Brands for Reliability

• Subaru: Opens in new tabConsistently ranked at the top, with models like the Forester and Outback known for their durability, according to recent Consumer Reports data. 
• Lexus: Opens in new tabA luxury brand that frequently earns the top spot for reliability, benefiting from a conservative approach to redesigns that prioritizes proven technology. 
• Toyota: Opens in new tabKnown for long-term durability, with models like the Camry, Corolla, and Prius praised for their longevity and straightforward engineering. 
• Honda & Acura: Opens in new tabThese related brands are consistently highly rated for reliability, partly due to their manufacturing in North America. 
• Mazda: Opens in new tabA strong performer, often ranking high for its engineering and long-term durability. 

Key Factors Contributing to Reliability

• Conservative Redesigns: Brands like Toyota and Lexus have a history of improving their vehicle lines incrementally, rather than introducing many new and unproven systems. 
• Tried-and-True Engineering: Focus on durability and longevity in design, with engines like Honda’s K and J series known for lasting long past 200,000 miles. 
• Simple, Efficient Designs: This approach often leads to longer life and fewer issues for the vehicle. 

Where to Find More Information

• Consumer Reports: This organization provides detailed reliability ratings based on owner feedback. 
• J.D. Power: Conducts the U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study to measure long-term reliability. 
• RepairPal: A resource to find brands with lower repair costs and a widespread network for parts and service. 

What’s the least reliable car?

There is no single “least reliable car,” but the Ford F-150 Hybrid, Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Gladiator, and various new models from brands like Land Rover, Rivian, and Tesla are frequently cited as having significant reliability issues in recent reports. Reliability varies by specific model and year, so it’s best to check reports from organizations like Consumer Reports and U.S. News & World Report for the vehicle you are interested in. 
Models cited for low reliability:

• Ford: The F-150 Hybrid and F-150 Lightning have experienced problems with their hybrid/high-voltage batteries, electrical systems, and other components. The Ford Bronco Sport has also faced recalls for fire risks and other issues, though some 2021 models have improved. 
• Jeep: The Wrangler and Gladiator are often named among the least reliable, with recurring problems in their steering, suspension, body hardware, and engine systems. 
• Land Rover: This brand is known for widespread electrical issues, including infotainment blackouts, suspension failures, and drivetrain problems. 
• Electric Vehicles (EVs): The Ford F-150 Lightning, Tesla Model 3, Cadillac Lyriq, Chevrolet Blazer EV, and Volkswagen ID4 all reported issues with their electric vehicle batteries and charging systems. 
• Other Models: Rivian R1T, Nissan Frontier, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Volvo XC60 were also listed in a 2024 report for various problems, from charging and climate systems to drive systems and electrical issues. 

What to consider:

• New Models: Newer models and those with cutting-edge technology, especially electric vehicles and complex luxury cars, can present reliability challenges due to their experimental nature. 
• Brand Reputation: While not all models from a brand are unreliable, brands like Land Rover, Alfa Romeo, and Jeep (along with their corporate cousins Chrysler and Dodge) are frequently mentioned in reliability surveys. 
• Model Specifics: Reliability can differ significantly between models from the same brand, or even within different versions of the same model (e.g., gas vs. hybrid). 
• Research the Specific Year: The reliability of a model can change from year to year. What was unreliable in 2022 might be improved in 2025. 

Which car has the worst reputation?

Contents

• 4.10 Leyland P76 (1973–75)
• 4.11 Ford Mustang II (1974–78)
• 4.12 AMC Pacer (1975–80)
• 4.13 Bricklin SV-1 (1975)
• 4.14 Triumph TR7 (1975–81)
• 4.15 Chevrolet Chevette (1976–87)
• 4.16 General Motors cars with Oldsmobile diesel engines (1978–85)
• 4.17 FSO Polonez (1978–2002)