Buying a new car should mean peace of mind, but that is not always the case. Consumer Reports’ latest reliability survey shows that not every brand new vehicle delivers on the promise of worry free ownership. In fact, some of the most popular models on the market are also among the most trouble prone, sending owners back to the dealership far more often than they expected. From nagging electronic glitches to major drivetrain headaches, these are the ten new cars ranked among the least reliable right now.
Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler may be a legend off road, but owners report that daily reliability leaves much to be desired. Common complaints include shaky steering at highway speeds, suspension problems, leaking roofs, and endless electronic faults. Even the infotainment system has been flagged for freezing or rebooting mid drive. While buyers expect some quirks from a rugged utility vehicle, the sheer volume of issues often turns excitement into frustration after just a year of ownership.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The Silverado is supposed to be a dependable workhorse, but recent surveys paint a different picture. Transmission problems top the list of complaints, with drivers reporting shuddering, hard shifts, or outright failures. Engine sensors and electronics also crop up as problem areas, making ownership unpredictable. For contractors and families who depend on their trucks daily, repeat service visits mean lost time and mounting costs.
Ford Explorer
The Explorer is still a household name, but reliability has not kept up with its popularity. Owners report gear slipping and hard shifts from the transmission, along with electrical glitches that affect everything from backup cameras to climate controls. Add in squeaks, rattles, and poor build consistency, and the Explorer quickly loses its shine. Families who bought it expecting a bulletproof SUV often find themselves annoyed by problems that crop up long before the warranty expires.
Volkswagen Atlas
The Atlas was designed specifically for American families, offering space and comfort. Unfortunately, it has also developed a reputation for reliability issues that surface early in ownership. Owners frequently report faulty climate control systems, glitches with the infotainment setup, and premature wear of interior components. While the Atlas shines on paper with size and features, real world complaints about quality make it one of the least satisfying new SUVs to live with.
Tesla Model Y
Tesla’s Model Y has been a sales success, but it continues to score poorly in reliability rankings. Fit and finish problems are widespread, with owners reporting uneven panel gaps, cheap trim that peels, and paint defects right off the lot. Electronics often glitch, including touchscreens that freeze or features that behave unpredictably. Tesla’s over the air updates can fix some software issues, but they do not solve the underlying build quality concerns. For a car that starts at a premium price point, many owners are left feeling shortchanged.
Kia Sorento
The Kia Sorento looks like a strong value in the midsize SUV market, but reliability has not been a strength. Transmission failures, malfunctioning sensors, and electrical gremlins are common complaints. Hybrid versions add another layer of complexity, with some drivers reporting stalling or drivetrain warning lights. For families expecting an affordable and dependable option, the Sorento can become a financial headache faster than expected.
Nissan Sentra
The Nissan Sentra is marketed as a simple, affordable sedan, but owners have found it to be less reliable than rivals. The main culprit is the continuously variable transmission, which has long been a sore spot for Nissan. Many owners report rough operation, slipping, or total failure within a short period. Electrical issues also pop up, from faulty sensors to malfunctioning driver assistance features. For buyers seeking a worry free commuter, the Sentra too often falls short.
Chrysler Pacifica
The Pacifica is meant to be a family friendly minivan, but parents often discover reliability headaches they were not bargaining for. Electronics are the biggest complaint, especially the infotainment system that freezes or lags. Transmission problems and hybrid system glitches also show up in survey data. For a vehicle that many families rely on every single day, having it repeatedly stuck in the shop quickly becomes more than just inconvenient—it becomes exhausting.
Chevrolet Bolt EUV
Chevrolet’s affordable electric crossover has attracted plenty of buyers, but reliability has been shaky. Early models faced battery recall campaigns, and even newer ones have dealt with charging issues and random error codes. Owners also report electrical problems with displays and connectivity features. While the Bolt EUV is efficient and practical, its shaky reliability record undermines buyer confidence in GM’s EV strategy.
Why Reliability Scores Matter
Consumer Reports bases its rankings on owner surveys, repair history, and reported problem areas across major vehicle systems. That includes engines, transmissions, climate systems, in car electronics, and even paint and trim quality. The result is a clearer picture of what it is really like to live with a new car after the initial honeymoon period. A flashy test drive may sell the dream, but real world ownership often exposes weaknesses fast.
The Buyer Beware
A new car should mean confidence, not constant service appointments. These ten models show that buying new is not a guarantee of reliability. From pickup trucks to EVs and family haulers, even big name brands can leave owners frustrated. For buyers in 2025, the lesson is clear check the reliability rankings before you sign the paperwork. It could save you a year of regrets and thousands in repairs.
