Think Twice Before Buying These 13 Cars, According to Consumer Reports

When you're in the market for a new car, it's easy to get swept away by a great deal or a nice design. But before you sign on the dotted line, you might want to know a little more about what's lurking under the hood. Consumer Reports digs deep into the reliability of every model each year, and helps us to know exactly which vehicles to avoid.

Choosing a car known for its unreliability could mean that what looks like a great deal today turns into a huge financial drain tomorrow. Unexpected repair bills can add up fast, sometimes even exceeding the car's purchase price.

To save you the trouble, we've made a list of 13 unreliable vehicles that Consumer Reports says aren't worth your money.

Jeep Wrangler

If you’ve got your heart set on a Jeep Wrangler, you might want to rethink that. We all know the Wrangler is legendary for off-roading, but its reliability score of 27 from Consumer Reports suggests you might run into more than a few bumps.

Issues like steering, suspension, and engine problems are pretty common. To make it worse, it's also had four recalls. Yeah, it’s rugged, but the noisy, rough ride and awkward access kind of make it hard to enjoy.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Jeep Grand Cherokee has long been the go-to for anyone looking for a cool ride that offers a bit of luxury, but a reliability score of 26 might make you think twice. It's ranked pretty low among mid-sized SUVs for reasons like recurring suspension and electrical issues, plus a whopping six recalls.

While it drives okay and looks pretty slick, the controls can be fiddly, and the brakes might not inspire much confidence. There might be better options out there that won't leave you visiting the mechanic quite so often.

Volkswagen Jetta

Thinking about getting a Volkswagen Jetta? Well, it might be worth a second thought. Despite its insane fuel efficiency of 34 mpg overall, it's not exactly nailing it in the reliability department, with a score of 25 from Consumer Reports.

Ranked #16 out of 18 in compact cars, the Jetta struggles with brake issues, temperamental in-car electronics, and a finicky climate system. While it’s great on gas, especially on the highway, these electrical and mechanical issues could put a damper on your drive.

Nissan Frontier

On the surface, the Nissan Frontier seems like a solid pick in the midsized pickup category, especially if you’re comparing it to the likes of Chevrolet Colorado or Ford Ranger. It ranks #4 out of 7, thanks to a great powertrain and easy controls that make driving it a breeze.

However, its reliability score sits at 23, and it’s been hit with three recalls. Issues with the transmission and body hardware, plus a pretty rough ride, mean it doesn’t quite keep up with pickups like the Honda Ridgeline or Hyundai Santa Cruz.

Jeep Grand Cherokee L

If you're considering the Jeep Grand Cherokee L for its roomy and fancy interior, you might want to weigh in on a few other factors. It ranks nearly last in its category, at #18 out of 19 for 3-row midsize SUVs, and has a reliability score of 23.

This model struggles with quite a few issues, including the suspension, drive system, and noisy leaks that can be more than just annoying. Its performance in acceleration and braking, along with its measly fuel economy, might leave you wanting more.

Rivian R1T

The Rivian R1T is ranked #2 out of 7, but it still has a few flaws. With a reliability score of 22 and three recalls under its belt, the R1T faces challenges with its drive system, climate controls, and body integrity.

Drivers have also reported frustrations with its braking feeling a bit too aggressive, difficult-to-use exterior door handles, and a user interface that can be a headache. Plus, it doesn't even offer Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which might be a dealbreaker if you need these for your daily drives.

Volvo XC60 Plug-In Hybrid

While this hybrid does offer pretty decent fuel economy for a luxury compact SUV, clocking in at 28 mpg overall, its reliability score of 21 should make you pause. This model, known as the Recharge, lands at #15 out of 27 in its class but comes with a laundry list of issues.

From EV battery and charging troubles to frustratingly complex controls and a less-than-smooth ride, the XC60 Plug-In Hybrid has some flaws that really need to be smoothed out.

Ford F-150 Hybrid

Ranking #6 out of 17 among full-sized pickups, this hybrid version struggles with a reliability score of just 19. In case you're wondering, that's pretty low, especially for a Ford.

It has quite a few issues, including problems with its transmission, electrical system, and hybrid battery. Other headaches like the high step-in, noisiness, and leaks can really take away from the overall experience.

Volkswagen Taos

The Volkswagen Taos might not be as reliable as you'd hope. With a reliability score of 18, it's near the bottom of its class, ranking #10 out of 11 among subcompact SUVs.

Drivers have reported serious issues with its brakes, transmission, and electrical systems, and don't even get us started on the powertrain. Apparently it can be a bit jittery with uneven power delivery.

Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid has decent fuel economy for a minivan, getting up to 27 mpg overall, but it's the least reliable in its category, with a score of 14. The hybrid model has some issues with its battery, charging system, and electric motor, which might lead to some serious headaches down the road.

This hybrid option also loses out on the Pacifica’s Stow ‘n Go seating, which cuts down on your cargo flexibility. For families needing a minivan, they can depend on, this version of the Pacifica might not tick all the boxes.

2023 Audi Q3

Owners have given the Audi Q3 a middle-of-the-road satisfaction score, partly because of its noisy engine and limited rear visibility. Plus, it doesn't offer a heated steering wheel. That may not sound like a big deal, but it's a feature many expect in this class.

Fuel efficiency is decent for its category, averaging about 25 mpg according to owners. However, a safety recall concerning a potentially deactivated front passenger airbag raises some eyebrows.

2023 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2023 Chevrolet Suburban might seem like the ultimate family vehicle, but it comes with its own set of challenges. It has plenty of space and power, but its fuel economy is on the lower end, with an EPA rating of 16 mpg.

Visibility issues due to a high step-in and tall hood make driving it more difficult than it should be. Even worse, there are safety concerns with two recalls, including one for a suspension issue that could misalign the rear wheels and increase your risk of getting into a crash.

2023 GMC Yukon XL

Lots of families gravitate to the Yukon XL for its huge size, but there are a few things they should first consider. Yes, there's room to stretch, but it guzzles gas at just 16 mpg, and it's not exactly acing the reliability tests, ranking dead last among its 2023 peers.

What we're most concerned about is its enormous hood, which could block your view of anything too close to the bumper. I think busy city streets where a small pedestrian is missing could spell big trouble.