As warranties near their end, the financial burden grows heavier. Consumer Reports data and other reliability information uncover the truth: some modern vehicles are riddled with early breakdowns, putting unsuspecting drivers at risk.
This slideshow dives into which cars are more likely to fail early and what you can do to avoid them.
What You’ll Learn in This Gallery
Some cars can consistently perform poorly in reliability surveys. Consumer Reports’ data and recall information reveals troubling patterns, including transmission, drivetrain, and electronic failures that can occur far too soon.
Consumers should be well informed when shopping for a used vehicle, ensuring a reliable car that will save them on mechanic visits.
Fiat 500L: The Poster Child for Low Reliability
The Fiat 500L, with its quirky design, quickly became known for reliability issues. It was rated among the very worst for new car reliability by Consumer Reports. Multiple trouble spots, including serious electrical and drivetrain issues, made it a common name on “least reliable” lists.
Buyers should approach this model with caution.
Jeep Cherokee: Stylish Crossover, Troubled Transmission
While the Jeep Cherokee offers off-road appeal and modern design, its 9-speed automatic transmission quickly became a concern.
Early models, in particular, were plagued by transmission problems, which were heavily noted in reliability data and owner complaints.
This popular SUV fell into the bottom tier for reliability during its first years.
Ford Fiesta: Dual-Clutch Problems in the Spotlight
The Ford Fiesta may be compact and efficient, but its dual-clutch transmission is infamous for shuddering, slipping, and early failures.
Numerous complaints from owners and legal actions have brought attention to this issue, pushing Consumer Reports and other evaluators to rate the Fiesta far below average for reliability, especially in the first few years.
Nissan Pathfinder: CVT Shudder and Warranty Extensions
The Nissan Pathfinder’s switch to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in the 2010s came with a host of problems. Many owners reported severe shuddering and hesitation, prompting Nissan to extend warranties and issue service campaigns for affected models.
These early transmission troubles indicated a broader reliability issue.
Mercedes-Benz CLA 250: Entry-Luxury, Extra Headaches
Despite its luxury badge, the Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 doesn’t shine when it comes to reliability. Early models experienced numerous problems with in-car electronics and other systems, making the CLA 250 one of the less reliable vehicles in its class.
This shows that a high price doesn’t guarantee high durability.
Chevrolet Cruze: Compact Sedan with Mixed Reliability
The Chevrolet Cruze offered comfort and fuel efficiency, but certain 1.4-liter turbo models were found to have significant reliability issues.
Engine and drivetrain problems led to below-average ratings from Consumer Reports and other sources, making this compact sedan a risky choice for those seeking long-term dependability.
Dodge Dart: Sporty Looks, Transmission Concerns
The Dodge Dart with the 1.4-liter turbo and dual-clutch automatic transmission had its fair share of reliability problems.
Surveys and owner reports revealed significant issues with its transmission system, making this sporty, tech-forward car a less reliable choice in the compact segment.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Diesel: Power with Complications
Diesel-powered versions of the Jeep Grand Cherokee promised power and long-distance cruising, but their reliability was undermined by issues with the emissions system.
These problems led to regulatory scrutiny and a reputation for early-life failures, making them a risky choice for consumers looking for long-term dependability.
Nissan Altima: CVT Problems Before Higher Mileage
The Nissan Altima’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) has become notorious for failures occurring anywhere from tens of thousands of miles onward, with some owners reporting problems within the first few years of ownership. Symptoms include jerking, shuddering, delayed acceleration, and complete transmission failure.
Many owners have had to replace their CVTs entirely, with repair costs often running into the thousands of dollars. Reliability data show that CVT-related issues become more common as mileage increases, making the Altima a higher-risk purchase.
Hyundai Elantra: Recalled Engine Problems
The 2011-2019 Hyundai Elantra with 2.0-liter and 2.4-liter Theta II engines became part of a series of large recalls affecting many Hyundai and Kia vehicles. Manufacturing defects related to the crankshaft and oil passages could leave metal debris in the engine, causing accelerated wear on critical components.
Owners reported engine knocking, stalling, and complete engine failure, sometimes relatively early in the vehicle’s life. Hyundai extended warranties for affected vehicles, acknowledging the severity of the defect.
Kia Optima: Same Recalled Engines, Same Risk
The 2011-2019 Kia Optima shares the same problematic Theta II engines as several Hyundai models. The crankshaft-related defect can produce metal shavings that restrict oil flow, leading to bearing wear and eventual engine failure. Some owners experienced engine failure well before high mileage despite regular maintenance and oil changes.
Kia has been involved in class-action settlements covering warranty extensions and compensation for repair costs and other damages related to the defect.
Jeep Wrangler: Electrical Gremlins and Ignition Failures
The 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler (JK generation) became notorious for persistent electrical problems, particularly faulty ignition switches and parasitic battery drain. Common complaints include intermittent no-start conditions, stalling while driving, and loss of electrical power to essential systems.
These gremlins often appear relatively early in the vehicle’s life and can be difficult to diagnose and repair, making ownership frustrating and expensive.
Volkswagen Golf: Ignition Switch Recall & Electrical Issues
The 2011-2018 Volkswagen Golf was affected by a widespread ignition-related defect included in a recall covering roughly 679,000 vehicles. The switch could fail in certain conditions, causing the electrical system to shut down and the engine to stall while driving.
Additionally, buildup on micro switch contacts could prevent the key from being removed from the ignition when the vehicle wasn’t in park. VW had to replace ignition switches and install additional circuit boards to limit current spikes causing the problem.
Subaru Ascent: Least Reliable SUV in Its Class?
The 2019-2022 Subaru Ascent has been plagued by multiple transmission-related recalls. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) allowed the clutch to engage before the drive chain was completely clamped, leading to chain slippage and potential loss of drive power.
Additional recalls addressed hydraulic sensor failures and driveshaft issues. These early-life problems underscore the Ascent’s struggles with reliability despite Subaru’s broader reputation for durability.
Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: Transmission & Electronics Failures
The 2017-2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Plug-in Electric Vehicle has been reported to suffer from critical transmission and hybrid system failures that can occur relatively early in ownership. An internal transmission wiring connector short and motor bearing failures can cause the vehicle to enter limp mode, display “Stop Safely—Vehicle Will Shut Off Soon” warnings, and experience loss of power while driving.
Some owners report lengthy repair times and multiple visits to the dealer. Chrysler has acknowledged related problems with technical service bulletins and extended warranty programs, but owners report that software updates alone do not always permanently fix the underlying defect.
Brands That Stand Out for Long-Term Dependability
While this gallery focuses on models with early reliability issues, some brands consistently perform well in terms of long-term dependability.
Lexus, Toyota, Honda, and several other models from Subaru are often rated highly for reliability, providing a safer bet for consumers seeking durability in the long run.
Turning Data into a Confident Used-Car Choice
For used-car buyers, understanding which models are statistically more likely to experience early problems gives them a significant advantage.
Armed with this knowledge, they can make informed choices, avoiding higher-risk models and potentially saving thousands in repair costs.
Use Reliability Insights to Drive Your Values
Choosing a car isn’t just about features or price—it’s about aligning your purchase with values like financial prudence and sustainability.
Using reliability data helps you make smarter choices, avoiding high-risk vehicles and rewarding manufacturers that build durable, dependable cars.
Sources:
Car and Driver – “Jeep Recalls 2014 Cherokee Again as ZF Nine-Speed Transmission Problems Continue” (July 7, 2019)
The Drive – “How To Tell If Your 2011-2019 Hyundai or Kia Engine Might Fail” (July 5, 2022)
Safety Research – “Hyundai-Kia’s Billion Dollar Engine Problem that Broke the NHTSA Civil Penalty Barrier” (May 17, 2021)
Lemon Law Help – “Nissan Altima CVT Transmission Complaints” (September 22, 2025)
Driving.ca – “Consumer Reports ranks most reliable used cars for 2025” (December 11, 2025)
Consumer Reports Official Website – Used Cars Ratings & Reliability (August 31, 2025)