The Least Reliable Cars in America
Most Americans decide to buy a new car because it means they will have less mechanical trouble to worry about, especially within the first few years of ownership. But according to Consumer Report Magazine, some cars are less reliable than others, even when they are purchased brand new. Before considering buying one of these new rides, take a look at what Consumer Reports has to say about their reliability and make sure the pros outweigh the cons.
Fiat 500L
The Italian brand vehicle can frequently be found at the bottom of many review lists. Consumer Reports commented explicitly on the Fiat 500L’s interior electronics and automatic transmission issues. It received an unsatisfactory safety rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, making it a questionable purchase for any concerned auto owner. The Fiat 500L has also received poor reviews from other auto experts, such as Car and Driver as well as the United States News and World Report.
Ford Fiesta
Despite a lousy rating from Consumer Report, the Ford Fiesta is one of Ford’s top-selling vehicles behind the F series and the Ford Marques. More than sixteen million Fiestas have been purchased since 1976. In 2010, the Fiesta was brought back to the states after being unavailable for purchase since the 1980’s. According to a 2016 Consumer Report review, the Ford Fiesta scored well on its fuel efficiency features but was noted to have unscheduled clutch replacements and a transmission that does not shift cleanly.
Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon
The Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon are often considered reliable vehicles, so their appearance on this list may come as a surprise to some. Although they are made from different manufacturers, both vehicles boast a V8 engine and many luxurious high-technical features. Consumer Reports had a problem with the vehicle's lack of fuel efficiency. They also found difficulties with the in-car electronics and steering vibrations. If it comes down to a decision between the two vehicles, it might help to know the US News and World Report ranks the Tahoe as the better buy.
Ram 2500
The Ram 2500 is one of the better rated big trucks in its category and is perfect for hauling large trailers. Newer models come equipped with 429 max gas torque and 410 best in class horsepower. Its max diesel towing weighs in around 17,980 pounds with a robust frame and a heavy-duty engine to get the job done. But Consumer Reports had several complaints, including issues with emissions controls, sensors, steering vibrations and more.
Telsa Model X
The Telsa Model X received a five-star rating from Car and Driver, but Consumer Reports was not impressed with the vehicle’s main feature. Although the Falcon doors look cool and Car and Driver stated they might be the smartest door ever fitted on a vehicle, Consumer Reports complained they were not functional because they took too long to open and close. There were also issues with the door’s reliability and other problems in the vehicle, such as its climate controls and in-car electronics.
Chrysler 200
The Chrysler 200 has not exactly blown the socks off of most credible car reviewers. Car and Driver called it “not the worst but not the best.” Consumer Reports stated that the Chrysler 200 was “a mediocre car with competent, even excellent, alternatives.” According to Consumer Reports, there were problems with the car’s “uncooperative and rough” automatic transmission. The buyer who is in the market for a good commuter car will not be disappointed, but do not expect this vehicle to do much else.
Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL
Many Americans rely heavily on their big SUVs to get work done, which might make the appearance of the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL on this list a bit disappointing. Consumer Reports states that both vehicles had problems with in-car electronics and four-wheel-drive components. Other reported issues included slipping or rough shifting with the eight-speed automatic transmission. However, the Chevrolet Suburban has slightly better ratings than the GMC Yukon according to the US News and World Report.
Jeep Renegade
Although the Jeep Renegade is brand’s smallest crossover, many Americans have been willing to sacrifice size and interior room for the reliability of having an all-wheel drive vehicle that is good in the snow. Buyers get their choice of either a 1.4 liter turbocharged engine with a six-speed manual gearbox or a 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine with a nine-speed automatic transmission. According to Consumer Reports, the automatic transmission is unreliable. There were also complaints about the vehicle’s radio and faulty power equipment.
Ford Focus
Americans do not like being told that an American made car is unreliable, especially one that is a popular choice for everyone from struggling college students to the elderly and budget-seeking middle-income families. Testers at Consumer Reports had a problem with the vehicle’s small cabin, which is counteractive for most families with children. The vehicle also tested poor in reliability with reports of a jerk transmission at low speeds. Fuel efficiency is also a bit on the unimpressive side with an average twenty-five miles per gallon overall with both the two-liter five-speed manual and one-liter automatic versions.
Cadillac Escalade
Unreliability is what happens when a buyer focuses on a flashy vehicle instead of one with tried and true long-term capabilities. The Cadillac Escalade is the most unreliable car in America, according to the 2016 Consumers Report. Testers were not impressed with the vehicle’s transmission replacements, problems with the in-car electronics, and poor shifting. The SUV was also reported to have inept handling and a stiff ride. With fifteen miles per gallon fuel efficiency, Consumer Reports choosing another ride.