Popular cars you may want to avoid in 2025—and why

Several high-selling models have red flags in specific years or trims due to reliability problems, recalls, crash-test gaps, theft/insurance risk, or steep depreciation. Examples frequently cited by safety agencies, owner surveys, and recall data include: Ford Explorer (2020–2022), Jeep Wrangler (2018–2024), Nissan models with early Jatco CVTs (roughly 2013–2018 Rogue/Sentra/Altima), Hyundai and Kia models with Theta II 2.0/2.4 GDI engines (2011–2019) and 2011–2021 non‑immobilizer cars targeted by thieves, GM trucks/SUVs with 2015–2019 8‑speed transmission “shudder” and 2019–2022 V8 lifter failures, Volkswagen Atlas (2018–2020), Honda CR‑V 1.5T (2017–2018), Subaru Ascent (2019–2020), Chevrolet Bolt EV (2017–2022 without the battery recall remedy), and early-build Tesla Model 3/Y. Below is a detailed, evidence-driven guide to help you decide what to skip—or what to buy only with careful verification.

How this list was built

This guide synthesizes recent trends from widely used sources: federal recall filings (NHTSA), crash-test results (IIHS), owner surveys and reliability studies (Consumer Reports, J.D. Power), insurance loss and theft data (HLDI), and large-scale owner complaint databases. Model-year detail matters; many vehicles improve after fixes, mid-cycle updates, or powertrain changes.

Models with recurring reliability headaches

The following models have patterns of mechanical or electrical issues in specific generations or years that can mean higher downtime and repair costs. The emphasis is on popular vehicles where problems are well-documented across recalls, TSBs, and owner reports.

• Ford Explorer (2020–2022, 6th gen): Multiple recalls including rear-axle bolt failures that could lead to rollaway in Park; early-build transmission and infotainment glitches.
• Nissan Rogue, Sentra, Altima (roughly 2013–2018 with early Jatco CVTs): Elevated rates of CVT judder/failure; many extended-warranty and TSB campaigns. Later updates improved but verify service history.
• Hyundai/Kia with Theta II 2.0/2.4 GDI engines (2011–2019 Sonata, Santa Fe Sport, Tucson, Optima, Sorento, Sportage): Engine wear and fire risk prompted large recalls and extended warranties; oil consumption and knock common in affected VIN ranges.
• GM trucks/SUVs and some cars with problematic automatics:
  

  • 8-speed “shudder” (2015–2019 8L90/8L45) in Chevrolet Silverado/Sierra, Tahoe/Suburban, Camaro; GMC Yukon; Cadillac CTS/CT6—addressed by fluid updates but still a buying caution.
  • V8 lifter collapse (2019–2022 5.3/6.2L with AFM/DFM) in Silverado/Sierra, Tahoe/Suburban, Yukon, Escalade—costly repairs reported; ensure warranty coverage or documented fix.

• Volkswagen Atlas (2018–2020): Early electrical faults, coolant leaks, and airbag/wiring harness recalls; additional door-harness issues also hit 2021–2023.
• Honda CR‑V 1.5T (2017–2018): Oil dilution/fuel-in-oil in cold climates prompted software updates and extended coverage; 2019+ generally improved.
• Subaru Ascent (2019–2020): First-model-year glitches (including a rare body weld recall in 2019) and CVT issues; reliability steadied in later years.
• Chevrolet Bolt EV (2017–2022): Battery recall for fire risk affected all years; only consider units with documented full battery/module replacement and updated software.
• Tesla Model 3/Model Y (early builds 2017–2021): Panel alignment/paint and HVAC issues more common in early production; ongoing high insurance/repair costs and driver-assistance recall actions are additional considerations.

Not every vehicle listed is a blanket “no”—later model years often improve. If you’re considering one, verify recall remedies, service records, extended warranty eligibility, and have a brand-savvy mechanic inspect before purchase.

Safety and crash-test gaps to think about

Some popular models sell on image or capability but lag in updated crash tests or have inherent design trade-offs. If top-tier crash performance is a priority, take special care with these:

• Jeep Wrangler (2018–2024 JL): Beloved off-road, but has struggled in some IIHS crash tests (including updated side-impact) and retains higher rollover risk versus car-based SUVs; not a frequent Top Safety Pick.
• Toyota 4Runner (2014–2024): Exceptionally durable, yet based on an older platform; middling results in newer IIHS tests and lacks the latest crash structures of newer rivals.
• Mitsubishi Mirage (many years through 2024): Budget-friendly but weaker crash-test performance and limited active-safety tech on lower trims.

Certain trims and option packages can change outcomes (for example, headlights and collision-avoidance systems can affect IIHS ratings). Always check the exact model year and trim against IIHS and NHTSA results.

High theft and insurance-risk vehicles

Insurance costs and theft exposure can turn a “cheap” buy into an expensive one. These are widely reported hotspots in recent insurance and law-enforcement data:

• Hyundai/Kia (roughly 2011–2021 base/older trims without engine immobilizers): The “Kia/Hyundai theft” wave spiked losses and premiums in many cities; software updates and wheel locks help, but underwriting remains strict in some ZIP codes.
• Dodge Charger/Challenger (2015–2023): Extremely high theft claim frequency—particularly powerful trims—often translates to higher premiums or coverage hurdles.
• Full-size pickups (Ford F‑150, Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra): Most stolen by volume; risk varies by region and trim. Consider factory immobilizers, tracking, and insurance quotes before buying.

Before you commit, get real insurance quotes for your address and verify anti-theft updates or hardware. Even within the same model line, theft risk can vary greatly by year and trim.

First-generation EVs and electric pickups: promising but bumpy

Early-build EVs often improve rapidly with software and hardware refreshes. Still, the first couple of model years can be rougher with recalls and service availability.

• Ford F‑150 Lightning (2022–2023 early builds): Production pauses and battery-related recalls occurred; ongoing software maturation and cold-weather range realities to consider.
• Rivian R1T/R1S (2022–2023): Early recalls (e.g., steering/suspension fasteners), plus a still-growing service network; later builds and updates have addressed many issues.
• Volkswagen ID.4 (2021–2022): Early software instability and 12V battery drains improved with 2023+ updates and U.S. production; ensure latest firmware.
• Hyundai Ioniq 5 / Kia EV6 (2022 early): Reports of 12V and software bugs in initial builds; 2023+ vehicles typically more stable after updates.

If you want an early EV, prioritize vehicles with documented software updates, warranty coverage, and convenient service access. Often, one model-year newer can make a material difference.

Depreciation traps if you plan to sell soon

Some popular or halo models lose value quickly, which can sting if you swap cars within 2–4 years.

• Luxury EVs (e.g., Mercedes‑Benz EQS, some early Lucid Air and Jaguar I‑Pace): Rapid tech changes and incentive-driven pricing have produced steep early depreciation and high out-of-warranty costs.
• High-performance V8 sedans/coupes (e.g., used Dodge Charger/Challenger): Theft/insurance headwinds can depress resale or narrow the buyer pool.

If resale matters, favor models with strong reliability reputations and broad mainstream demand—or buy these at an already-depreciated used price with clear service histories.

What to buy instead

Looking for safer bets? These categories and models have stronger recent track records for reliability and safety—though always verify the specific year and trim.

• Compact/ midsize SUVs: Toyota RAV4 (non-2019 fuel-tank issue), Honda CR‑V (2019+), Mazda CX‑5/CX‑50, Subaru Forester/Outback.
• Sedans: Toyota Camry/Corolla, Honda Accord/Civic (avoid 2016–2018 Civic A/C issues unless repaired), Mazda3, Subaru Legacy/Impreza.
• Minivans/3‑row SUVs: Toyota Sienna/Highlander, Honda Odyssey/Pilot (newer gens).
• Trucks: Toyota Tacoma (later years), non‑DFM GM V8s or proven 6‑speed combos if you must go GM, and carefully vetted late-model F‑150s with service history.

No vehicle is bulletproof, but these lines consistently perform well in owner surveys and crash tests. Still, pay attention to powertrain/trim differences within each model.

Smart shopping checklist

Before ruling something in or out, apply this quick due-diligence process to any car you’re serious about.

• Run the VIN for open recalls (NHTSA.gov) and demand documentation of completed remedies.
• Review reliability and crash ratings for the exact year/trim (Consumer Reports, IIHS, NHTSA).
• Get insurance quotes for your ZIP and check theft risk; confirm immobilizer/software updates if relevant.
• Scan service records for pattern failures; get a pre-purchase inspection by a brand specialist.
• Verify software version/warranty status on EVs; test DC fast charging and home charging behavior.
• Consider total cost of ownership: tires, brakes, timing services, battery/drive-unit coverage, and resale.

This process catches most deal-breakers early and helps you negotiate price based on real, documented risks.

Summary

You don’t need to avoid entire brands, but you should be cautious about certain years and powertrains with well-documented issues. In 2025, common skip-or-verify targets include 2020–2022 Ford Explorer, 2013–2018 Nissan CVT models, 2011–2019 Hyundai/Kia with Theta II engines and 2011–2021 non‑immobilizer cars, GM trucks/SUVs with 2015–2019 8‑speed automatics or 2019–2022 V8 lifter problems, 2018–2020 VW Atlas, 2017–2018 Honda CR‑V 1.5T, 2019–2020 Subaru Ascent, 2017–2022 Chevy Bolt EV without confirmed battery remedies, and early Tesla Model 3/Y. Balance popularity with verifiable fixes, strong crash ratings, and realistic insurance/ownership costs—and you’ll avoid the biggest pitfalls.