Consumer Reports Reveals the Least Reliable Car Brands of 2023: Who to Avoid and Why

Is your car brand on the list of most unreliable/ Wrost cars of 2023? Check out the latest report by Consumer Reports to find out. Don't get stuck with a car that's going to cost you a fortune in repairs!

Consumer Reports Reveals the Least Reliable Car Brands of 2023: Who to Avoid and Why
In today's automotive market, reliability is a critical factor for buyers looking for a new car. No one wants to spend their hard-earned money on a vehicle that will constantly be in the repair shop. Consumer Reports, a leading consumer advocacy group, regularly publishes reliability rankings for various car brands and models based on its surveys of thousands of car owners. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the least reliable car brands and models according to Consumer Reports 2023 latest survey, and what factors contribute to their low scores

10. Nissan

According to a survey, Nissan received an average livability score of only 44 out of 100, with the least reliable model being the Santra, which scored a dismal 9 out of 100. While Nissan has made efforts to update its model lineup over the past few years, reliability has been a persistent issue for the brand. It is not surprising that they continue to struggle with this problem. However, it is hoped that they will be able to improve the quality of their cars after sorting out the early reliability issues with their redesigned models. In the meantime, Nissan needs to focus on addressing this issue.


9. RAM

According to Consumer Reports, the Ram lineup received an average reliability score of only 42 out of 100. This is not surprising as many brands under the Stellantis group, including Dodge, Fiat, and Jeep, are known for having quality issues and reliability problems. Ram trucks, in particular, have been notorious for serious reliability issues, especially with the EcoDiesel engines, which have had a high failure rate. Ram trucks are also expensive to repair, and the quality of service is not very good. Therefore, if you are looking for a reliable pickup truck, it is advisable to explore other options.


8. Cadillac

According to the survey, Cadillac received an average reliability score of 42 out of 100, with the full-sized Escalade SUV being the least reliable model, scoring only 37 out of 100. This result is not surprising since General Motors is not known for having stellar reliability. Moreover, Cadillac produces the most complicated and technology-heavy cars in its lineup, making it unsurprising that their reliability is not great.



7. Ford

According to Consumer Reports, Ford received an average reliability score of only 41 out of 100. The least reliable models include the Explorer SUV, scoring only 16 out of 100, and the F-150 EcoBoost hybrid grid, which scored a dismal 4 out of 100. These findings are supported by Consumer Reports as these vehicles are known for having electronic issues, problems with the 10-speed automatic transmission, and issues with the EcoBoost turbo engines.



6. Tesla

Consumer Reports indicate that Tesla has an average reliability score of only 40 out of 100, with the Model Y SUV being the least reliable model, with a score of only 25 out of 100. To be fair to Tesla, many of their issues are not related to major components such as motors and battery packs, but rather cosmetic issues such as the finish and quality of the interior and exterior. However, Teslas are known for being expensive to repair and servicing them can be a major problem. If you are still interested in the brand, the Model 3 appears to be the safest and least expensive option, with the best build quality among Tesla's offerings.


5. Chevrolet

According to Consumer Reports, the brand received an average reliability score of only 40 out of 100. The least reliable models are the Silverado pickup truck and the Bolt electric car, with an average reliability score of 17 out of 100.



4. GMC

According to Consumer Reports, the brand received an average reliability score of only 36 out of 100. The least reliable model is the Sierra pickup truck, with a score of only 19 out of 100.



3. Volkswagen

According to Consumer Reports, the brand received an average reliability score of only 31 out of 100, which is quite disappointing. The brand's most popular models, including the Atlas and the Tiguan SUVs, both received a reliability score under 20 out of 100. It is not surprising to see Volkswagen struggle with reliability issues, especially as their vehicles age beyond the warranty period. In addition, they are also known to be more expensive to repair compared to other brands such as Honda and Toyota. If you are looking for a reliable car that won't cost you a lot of money in repairs as it ages, Volkswagen is one of the brands you should avoid.


2. Jeep

According to a survey by Consumer Reports, Jeep received an average reliability score of only 30 out of 100, and unsurprisingly, the Brand's least reliable models include the Wrangler and the Gladiator, both with an average reliability score of only 21 out of 100. As mentioned earlier, the Stellantis group, which includes Dodge, RAM, and Jeep, is not known for having strong build quality or reliability. However, despite the unreliable reputation, Jeep models continue to be extremely popular in the market. For instance, the Wrangler has one of the strongest resale values of almost any model, which speaks to its popularity and desirability with buyers. So, it's comforting to know that even if you get tired of spending a lot of money on repairs, you can sell it for a good price.

1. Mercedes-Benz

According to Consumer Reports, Mercedes-Benz has been ranked as the least reliable car brand of 2023 with a disappointing score of only 26 out of 100. As in the previous year, the GLE SUV remains the least reliable model with a score of only 23 out of 100. Unfortunately, reliability is not something that high-end European luxury brands are known for in North America. In addition to being problematic past the warranty period, they are also known for being very expensive to repair as they age.