Which cars break down the most? What 2024 reliability data really says

The most accurate answer is that there isn’t a single car that “breaks down the most” everywhere; however, large independent surveys in 2024 consistently show that certain brands and models have higher-than-average problem rates. Consumer Reports and J.D. Power data put brands such as Land Rover, Jeep, Chrysler, Tesla, Rivian, Lincoln, and (in some studies) Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen near the bottom, with specific models like the Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Ford Explorer, Chrysler Pacifica (especially the plug-in hybrid), Tesla Model S and Model X, and Mercedes-Benz GLE frequently cited for reliability issues. Below is how the findings fit together—and how to use them when choosing a vehicle.

How “breakdowns” are measured—and why the answer varies

Different organizations define and track reliability differently. Consumer Reports collects hundreds of thousands of owner surveys covering 12+ problem areas across multiple model years, while J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study looks at problems per 100 vehicles for three-year-old models. Roadside assistance data (e.g., AAA, RAC, AA) often reflects immediate breakdowns requiring a tow. Because methods and sample sizes differ, no single list can claim a universal “most breakdown-prone” car, but overlapping trends are meaningful.

Brands most often flagged for problems in recent surveys

The following list reflects brands that, in 2024 reporting by major sources like Consumer Reports’ Auto Reliability data and J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study, were frequently ranked below the industry average for dependability. This doesn’t mean every model from these brands is unreliable, but it indicates higher overall rates of issues compared with leaders like Lexus, Toyota, and (often) Honda and Subaru.

• Land Rover: Regularly near the bottom in UK and US reliability rankings, often due to electronic, drivetrain, and build-quality issues.
• Jeep: Multiple models score below average; off-road variants and PHEV versions (e.g., Wrangler 4xe) have been frequent trouble spots.
• Chrysler: Limited lineup but persistent reliability challenges; the Pacifica—especially the PHEV—has had repeated problem areas.
• Tesla: Strong powertrain fundamentals but ongoing issues reported with body hardware, paint/trim, infotainment, and build consistency; Model S/X more affected than 3/Y.
• Rivian: Startup challenges typical of early production; owners report software and hardware teething issues, though updates are frequent.
• Lincoln: Often below average in dependability studies, with electronics and in-car tech among common complaints.
• Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen: Mixed results by model; complex tech and first-year updates can weigh on rankings.

Across sources, these brands appear more often at or near the bottom than peers. Still, individual models and refresh years can buck the trend, so it’s essential to drill down to specific vehicles and model years.

Models frequently cited for high problem rates

Below are examples of models that have been repeatedly flagged for below-average reliability in recent reporting cycles. Lists vary by study year and methodology, so verify the specific model year you’re considering.

• Jeep Wrangler 4xe (PHEV): Owners report drivetrain and electrical issues, especially early model years; off-road hardware adds complexity.
• Ford Explorer: Multiple recent generations have drawn complaints about transmission, power equipment, and in-car electronics.
• Chrysler Pacifica (particularly Hybrid): Known for electrical and drivetrain-related issues; some years improved, others backslid—check year-specific data.
• Tesla Model S and Model X: Often ranked below average by owner surveys due to body hardware, climate, and trim issues, despite strong EV powertrains.
• Mercedes-Benz GLE: Frequently reported infotainment/electronics and build-related problems in owner surveys.
• Full-size pickups (Chevrolet Silverado 1500/GMC Sierra 1500, certain years; Ford F-150 Hybrid): Complex drivetrains and new tech have resulted in uneven reliability across model years.

Problem patterns tend to cluster around complex electronics, new or hybridized powertrains, and first-year redesigns. Always check model-year-specific data because reliability can change markedly after a refresh or update.

Why some cars break down more than others

Several recurring themes cut across surveys when explaining higher breakdown or problem rates.

• Complex electronics: Infotainment, connectivity, and driver-assist systems are top sources of complaints and repairs.
• New powertrains: First- and second-year EVs and PHEVs often face early-life software and hardware issues; conventional hybrids tend to fare better than PHEVs.
• First model year risk: Fresh redesigns and newly introduced models have more bugs; reliability usually stabilizes after updates.
• Heavy-duty duty cycles: Large SUVs/trucks and off-roaders endure greater mechanical stress, increasing failure odds without meticulous maintenance.
• Supplier and production variability: Startups and fast-scaling brands can struggle with quality control and parts consistency.

These factors don’t doom any given car, but they raise risk, especially if combined—like a first-year PHEV with a complex infotainment suite.

How to lower your risk of breakdowns

Shoppers can minimize downtime by filtering choices through proven data and adopting preventive practices.

• Start with model-year reliability: Check Consumer Reports owner data and J.D. Power’s VDS for the exact year and trim you’re eyeing.
• Favor mature powertrains: Conventional hybrids from Toyota, Honda, and Lexus often score highly; be cautious with first-year PHEVs.
• Avoid first-year redesigns: Wait a year after a major refresh or generation change if reliability is a priority.
• Check recalls and TSBs: Look up NHTSA recalls and dealer Technical Service Bulletins; ensure fixes were performed.
• Get a pre-purchase inspection: For used cars, an independent inspection can reveal looming electrical or mechanical issues.
• Mind the 12-volt battery: In EVs/PHEVs, a weak 12V battery strands cars more often than the high-voltage pack; replace proactively.
• Maintain on schedule: Fluids, filters, tires, and software updates prevent many roadside failures.

No car is failure-proof, but careful selection and maintenance dramatically reduce the chance—and cost—of breakdowns.

Bottom line: A single “worst” car doesn’t exist—but patterns do

There is no universally agreed-upon “car that breaks down most.” Still, 2024 reliability data converge on patterns: certain brands (notably Land Rover, Jeep, Chrysler, Tesla, Rivian, Lincoln) and specific models (Wrangler 4xe, Explorer, Pacifica Hybrid, Model S/X, GLE, and some full-size pickups in particular years) are more frequently problem-prone. Conversely, brands like Lexus and Toyota—and often Honda, Subaru, and Mazda—continue to lead for trouble-free ownership.

Summary

There isn’t a single, definitive car that “breaks down most.” Across major 2024 surveys, the highest problem rates cluster around brands such as Land Rover, Jeep, Chrysler, Tesla, Rivian, and Lincoln, with recurring trouble on tech-heavy systems, first-year designs, and some PHEVs and EVs. To minimize risk, focus on model-year-specific data, favor proven powertrains, avoid first-year redesigns, verify recalls/TSBs, get independent inspections for used cars, and maintain proactively.

What vehicle is most likely to break down?

What vehicle is the most unreliable? The Cadillac Lyriqis the most unreliable vehicle for 2025. Its predicted reliability score of 53 out of 100 is well below every other vehicle on the market.

Which brand of car is most unreliable?

The World’s Least Reliable Car Manufacturers

Rank	Manufacturer	Score (Higher score = Less reliable)
1	Mazda*	86.08
2	Vauxhall/Opel	81.78
3	Volvo	71.59
4	Ford	64.11

Which car blows up the most?

Kia & Hyundai. Kias and Hyundais are among the most fire-prone vehicles. In 2019, they settled for $760 million over non-crash-related fires. A 2018 study found that midsize Kia and Hyundai models were over twice as likely to have non-crash fire insurance claims compared to similar vehicles.

What brand of car breaks down the most?

Based on recent reports from Consumer Reports and other sources, car brands like Rivian, Jeep, GMC, Cadillac, and Chrysler consistently rank among those with the most problems, especially over the long term, while electric vehicles (EVs) from brands like Tesla also show some reliability concerns. The specific brand and model can vary, so checking the latest reliability data from reputable sources is recommended for any purchase. 
Brands to Watch For Reliability Issues

• Rivian: Opens in new tabThis electric vehicle manufacturer is frequently cited for its new models’ low reliability, with significant issues often reported. 
• Stellantis Brands: Opens in new tabJeep, Dodge, Chrysler, and Ram brands are consistently rated as having high numbers of problems. 
• General Motors (GM) Brands: Opens in new tabCadillac and GMC also frequently appear in reliability studies as having some of the most problems. 
• Tesla: Opens in new tabWhile some models show promise, Tesla has also been noted for reliability issues, with specific models having lower scores, according to sources like Consumer Reports. 

Factors to Consider

• Vehicle Dependability vs. Initial Quality: Studies like J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) track issues over a longer period (e.g., three years), while initial quality studies measure problems within the first few months of ownership. 
• New vs. Used Vehicles: Reliability concerns for brands like Nissan may be different for used models, particularly those equipped with problematic CVTs (Continuously Variable Transmissions). 
• Model-Specific Issues: A brand may have one or two unreliable models, but the rest of its lineup could be dependable. For example, while some Subaru models are reliable, the Solterra has a low reliability score. 

Where to Find More Information

• Consumer Reports: This organization publishes extensive reliability data based on owner surveys. 
• J.D. Power: They conduct studies on both initial quality and long-term vehicle dependability. 
• Yahoo! Autos: This site compiles and reports on reliability data from various sources. 
• What Car?: A UK-based source that conducts its own reliability surveys. 
• Car Reviewers: Online reviewers and mechanics often have practical knowledge of which brands are prone to expensive and frequent repairs.