15 Vehicles That Get Dinged for Poor Reliability

This year’s annual reliability survey by the magazine shows that many vehicles continue to exhibit problems with engines, transmissions, suspensions, and, most commonly, electronics. Based on detailed information from owners of more than 740,000 vehicles, CR reached verdicts on sub-systems that include, not only the obvious powertrain components, but also body hardware, climate systems, electrical systems, fuel systems, in-car electronics, brakes, and many other parts. “It includes any problem, from electrical gremlins to transmission replacements, that might require a trip to the dealership or mechanic for a repair,” the magazine’s editors wrote. “That information helps consumers see how troublesome a particular model might be.”

We’ve collected some models that have been plagued by repeated problems over multiple model years. From Chevys and Fords to BMWs and Cadillacs, following are snapshots of the industry’s biggest offenders.

Click the image below to start the slideshow:

Consumer Reports gave poor reliability ratings to the Mini Cooper from 2008-2012 due to a multitude of problems. Those included unspecified major and minor engine issues, as well as engine cooling, electrical problems, noises, and leaks.
(Source: Wikipedia)

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Senior technical editor Chuck Murray has been writing about technology for 32 years. He joined Design News in 1987, and has covered electronics, automation, fluid power, and autos.

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