When it comes to buying a used car, there are several factors to consider before making a decision. Brand reputation, space, performance, looks, and price are all important aspects to keep in mind. However, one crucial factor that often gets overlooked is reliability.
Having detailed reliability data from thousands of actual car owners can be incredibly helpful when choosing a vehicle. Every year, Consumer Reports provides reliability ratings for major vehicle models by surveying members about the problems they have experienced over the past year. This data can give you valuable insights into which brands are more dependable and which ones are more likely to require frequent repairs.
According to Consumer Reports, some brands are significantly less reliable than others. Last year, Mercedes-Benz was ranked as the second least trustworthy brand, with a dismal average predicted reliability score of 18 out of 100. Other brands that ranked poorly in terms of reliability include Rivian, Volkswagen, and Jeep. On the other hand, brands like Lexus, Toyota, Mini, Acura, and Honda consistently rank at the top in terms of reliability, with average predicted reliability scores in the 70s.
To put these rankings into perspective, Consumer Reports rates brands and models based on 20 weighted minor and major trouble areas reported by their members. In addition to reliability ratings, RepairPal provides information on the average annual maintenance costs for each brand.
Based on Consumer Reports‘ latest data gathered from over 330,000 vehicles from the 2000 to 2023 model years, here are the 12 least reliable car brands:
12. Audi
11. Chevrolet
10. Dodge
9. Ford
8. Lincoln
7. GMC
6. Volvo
5. Jeep
4. Volkswagen
3. Rivian
2. Mercedes-Benz
1. Chrysler
It’s important to note that reliability can vary between different models within a brand, so it’s essential to research specific models before making a purchase. By considering reliability data along with other factors like brand reputation, performance, and price, you can make a more informed decision when buying a used car. Remember, a reliable vehicle can save you money and headaches in the long run.