One of the main reasons people buy new cars is the promise of an easy ownership experience and not having to deal with frequent breakdowns. However, the annual exclusive survey by Consumer Reports reveals that some new models may have to visit repair shops or dealer service centers sooner than expected. These are the least reliable predicted models in the magazine’s survey.
To compile the list of the 10 most unreliable car models for 2024 in the US market, Consumer Reports analyzed detailed data from over 330,000 different vehicles. The magazine studied 20 types of problems that users commonly encountered during their vehicle usage, such as squeaky brakes, broken interior trims, engine, transmissions, electric vehicle batteries, or charging malfunctions. Consumer Reports then evaluated the severity of each type of problem to calculate a predicted reliability score based on a 100-point scale for each car model.
Here is the list of the 10 most unreliable car models in 2024 in the US market, according to Consumer Reports.
10. Jeep Wrangler
Consumer Reports’ predicted reliability score: 27 out of 100
Jeep Wrangler can be said to be an unbeatable off-road machine. However, “with great power comes great responsibility”, as the American SUV has somewhat low reliability. According to Consumer Reports’ survey results, Jeep Wrangler often encounters issues with the steering system, suspension system, electrical system, engine, and drivetrain.
9. Jeep Grand Cherokee
Consumer Reports’ predicted reliability score: 26 out of 100
Compared to its Wrangler sibling, Jeep Grand Cherokee offers a more comfortable driving experience on the streets. However, in terms of reliability and durability, it is no less than Wrangler. During usage, Jeep Grand Cherokee users often encounter problems with the suspension system, electrical components, drivetrain, electronic systems, and body hardware. Additionally, this model is also prone to strange noises or fluid leaks.
8. Volkswagen Jetta
Consumer Reports’ predicted reliability score: 25 out of 100
When test driving the Volkswagen Jetta, many people can be convinced by its low starting price and fuel efficiency. However, during usage, some customers are left disappointed due to brake malfunctions, electrical issues, air conditioning system problems, and electronic system malfunctions in the car.
7. Nissan Frontier
Consumer Reports’ predicted reliability score: 23 out of 100
Japanese cars are often known for their reliability and durability. However, the same cannot be said for the Nissan Frontier. This is also the only Japanese car to make the top 10 list of the most unreliable cars in 2024 according to Consumer Reports. Common issues for Nissan Frontier users include transmission, electrical components, and body hardware.
6. Jeep Grand Cherokee L
Consumer Reports’ predicted reliability score: 23 out of 100
Another member of the Jeep family appears in the top 10 list, the Grand Cherokee L. This is not surprising as the Grand Cherokee L is the extended version of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. There is no reason for the Grand Cherokee to be on the list while the Grand Cherokee L is not.
Furthermore, the Jeep Grand Cherokee L has a lower reliability score than its older sibling. The weak points of this model are the suspension system, electrical components, drivetrain, electronic systems, and body hardware. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L also tends to produce strange noises or fluid leaks similar to the Grand Cherokee.
5. Rivian R1T
Consumer Reports’ predicted reliability score: 22 out of 100
The Rivian R1T is a quick and capable electric off-road vehicle. However, reliability is not its strong suit. The vehicle often experiences issues with the steering system, air conditioning, body hardware, strange noises, or fluid leaks.
4. Volvo XC60 PHEV
Consumer Reports’ predicted reliability score: 21 out of 100
The Volvo XC60 PHEV is loved by many for its beautiful design and fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid drivetrain. However, for those seeking a reliable and durable vehicle, this is not the ideal choice. According to Consumer Reports, the Swedish car often experiences issues with the battery, charging system, electrical components, air conditioning, and electronic systems in the car.
3. Ford F-150 Hybrid
Consumer Reports’ predicted reliability score: 19 out of 100
In theory, the Ford F-150 Hybrid should have all the strengths of the regular gasoline-powered version and the added advantage of fuel efficiency. Unfortunately, while the regular F-150 did not make the top 10 list of the most unreliable cars in 2024, the F-150 Hybrid did. Common areas of breakdown for the Ford F-150 Hybrid include the transmission, electrical system, battery, electrical components, drivetrain, and electronic systems. Strange noises and fluid leaks are also problems that many Ford F-150 Hybrid owners have to deal with.
2. Volkswagen Taos
Consumer Reports’ predicted reliability score: 18 out of 100
The Volkswagen Taos is a somewhat lackluster entry in the market. Low reliability is perhaps one of the things that make people not want to remember the existence of this German car. The Volkswagen Taos often experiences issues with the brake system, electrical components, transmission, engine, electrical systems, electronic systems in the car, strange noises, or fluid leaks.
1. Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
Consumer Reports’ predicted reliability score: 14 out of 100
Minivans are popular in the US market. A minivan with a hybrid powertrain that saves fuel seems like an even more ideal choice. However, this is not the case with the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. This model has a low reliability score due to issues related to the battery, charging system, electric motor, and electronic systems in the car.