When you drop cash on a new car, you’re not just snagging a ride—you’re after that sweet certainty that you won’t be bogged down with trips to the mechanic. That desire for a smooth drive without the old car hiccups is what drives many to buy new. But let’s be real—not every new car keeps that promise.
Consumer Reports, armed with insights from over 330,000 vehicle owners, has identified 10 models that might just make you pause. These rides have landed on the least reliable list, dealing with everything from the minor irritations of squeaky brakes to massive money pits like engine blowouts or EV battery and charger issues after the warranty has left you high and dry.
Each vehicle on this list has gone through the wringer with evaluations in 20 different trouble areas, making sure our reliability scores aren’t just cold data—they’re based on actual car owner nightmares. If you’re thinking about a new set of wheels, taking a peek at this list could steer you clear of some serious regrets.
Jeep Wrangler
Reliablity Rating: 27/100
Got your sights set on the 2024 Jeep Wrangler? Brace yourself—it’s a bit of a wild ride when it comes to reliability. With a price range from $31,995 to $91,545, it ranks #12 out of 16 in the mid-sized SUV game. Fuel efficiency isn’t its strong suit either, clocking in at an overall 18 mpg—13 in the city and 24 on the highway. Common headaches include issues with steering and suspension, the electrical system, the engine, and the drive system. Plus, it’s been slapped with three recalls. If you’re after a smooth daily driver, this Jeep might just shake you up.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Reliablity Rating: 26/100
If you’re considering the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee, it’s a slight step up in the reliability department, scoring a 26 and sitting at 10th among mid-sized SUVs. Priced between $38,035 and $74,670, it offers somewhat better fuel efficiency at 20 mpg overall—14 in the city and 28 on the highway. But it’s not without its issues; expect troubles with suspension, electrical accessories, the drive system, in-car electronics, and body hardware. And with nuisances like noises and leaks, plus five recalls on record, this Grand Cherokee could give you pause.
Volkswagen Jetta
Reliablity Rating: 25/100
The 2024 Volkswagen Jetta is a wallet-friendly option in the compact car division, with prices ranging from $21,435 to $28,825. The Jetta shines on the highway with a standout 54 mpg and pulls a decent 34 mpg overall. But it’s trailing in its class, landing at 16th out of 18. The main gripes? Brakes, electrical accessories, and climate control, plus some hassles with the in-car electronics. While it’s economical at the gas station, its reliability issues might just stress your budget in other ways.
Nissan Frontier
Reliablity Rating: 23/100
The Nissan Frontier stepped up with a new design in 2022 after a long hiatus, but it’s not without its glitches. With a price tag ranging from $30,510 to $43,380, it ranks as the second-best mid-sized pickup for 2024. It offers 18 mpg overall, along with a robust engine and a snappy infotainment setup. However, brace for a ride that might be rougher than anticipated. Also, keep tabs on the transmission, electrical accessories, and body hardware, which have been problematic areas. There’s been a recall, too.
Jeep Grand Cherokee L
Reliablity Rating: 23/100
The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L’s got space and style, but it’s not all smooth sailing. This rig will set you back between $40,035 and $64,560, landing it at a lowly 16th among 19 competitors in the three-row mid-sized SUV class. It posts a modest 19 mpg overall—13 in the city and 28 on the highway. The ride itself can be a headache, thanks to shaky suspension, quirky electrical accessories, and a drive system that might let you down. Toss in some annoying noises, leaks, and longer-than-liked braking distances, and this Jeep might just fray your nerves during rush hour.
Rivian R1T
Reliablity Rating: 22/100
The Rivian R1T is the fresh face on the electric pickup block, sporting an MPGE of 70 overall—74 in the city and 66 on the highway. With a price tag ranging from $69,900 to $88,000, it ranks second among electric pickups in 2024. But it’s got its share of issues, from drive system glitches and climate control quirks to body hardware problems, not to mention some troubling noises and leaks. It’s already racked up three recalls.
Volvo XC60 Plug-In Hybrid
Reliablity Rating: 21/100
The 2024 Volvo XC60 Plug-In Hybrid is on the market for between $59,395 and $75,450, landing it 15th in the luxury compact SUV rankings. It boasts a decent 28 mpg overall—21 in the city and 34 on the highway. But hold up—this Volvo might test your patience with its complex control interface and a ride that’s on the stiffer side. And don’t get me started on the EV battery and charging issues, plus other electronic gremlins that could pop up.
Ford F-150 Hybrid
Reliablity Rating: 19/100
The 2024 Ford F-150 Hybrid is quite the contender in the full-sized pickup category, ranking 6th with a price range of $36,965 to $78,440. It delivers 20 mpg overall, with 15 mpg in the city and 24 on the highway. But, here’s the deal—it’s not all smooth driving. This truck’s got a temperamental transmission and electrical system, and even its hybrid battery can kick up a fuss. Factor in some additional electrical issues and potential noise and leaks, and this beast might be a bit of a handful. It’s a solid choice for hybrid truck lovers who don’t mind wrestling with a few quirks, but it might not suit everyone’s taste.
Volkswagen Taos
Reliablity Rating: 18/100
Check out the 2024 Volkswagen Taos if you’re in the market. It’s priced between $23,995 and $33,515 and boasts a roomy interior and nimble handling for a subcompact SUV. However, it only ranks 9th out of 11 in its segment. It scores a solid 26 mpg overall—17 in the city and 39 on the highway. But here’s the kicker: its powertrain has some serious issues, turning what should be a smooth ride into a frustrating stop-and-go ordeal. It also has frequent problems with brakes, electrical accessories, transmission, and the engine.
Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
Reliablity Rating: 14/100
Thinking about the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid? This minivan is at the bottom of its class, ranking 6th out of 6. It’s tagged between $39,400 and $59,495 and manages 27 mpg overall—21 in the city and 32 on the highway. Not too bad for a minivan, but the tech troubles are a dealbreaker. It battles issues with its hybrid battery, charging system, and electric motor, plus the in-car electronics are often glitchy.
