Buyer Beware: Consumer Reports’ 2025 Guide to the Least Reliable New Cars You Should Avoid

Autos

Buyer Beware: Consumer Reports’ 2025 Guide to the Least Reliable New Cars You Should Avoid

Buying a new car feels thrilling new tech, better protection on the road, that clean-car excitement. But amid all these shiny options, smart shoppers need to ask: which models could turn into trouble later? A ride’s long-term happiness isn’t about flash it comes down to one thing: how well it holds up over time.

For nearly nine decades, Consumer Reports has been a trusted voice, pointing drivers toward better choices using careful research instead of hype. Instead of guesses, their yearly ratings come from real feedback more than three hundred thousand car owners sharing what’s gone wrong or right. Each survey digs into two dozen everyday issues, ranging from annoying sounds to serious breakdowns. Because of this deep look, shoppers get clear facts when sorting through confusing options.

In their 2025 review, CR sounds the alarm again calling out fresh models that look great but may struggle to last. Thanks to live data from Car Edge Pro, we’re breaking down exactly which rides are more trouble than they’re worth. If you’re eyeing an EV, a hybrid, or sticking with gasoline, knowing this stuff helps dodge costly fixes later on. Get ready to explore what makes these picks shaky choices, so your next buy isn’t a gamble.

1. Ford F-150 Power Boost (Hybrid)

The Ford F-150 Power Boost hybrid sits dead last on this list its predicted reliability rated a shocking 7 out of 100 by Consumer Reports. That number stands out since hybrids usually rank high when it comes to trustworthiness. But this model breaks the pattern, showing flaws where you’d least expect them. Buyers hoping for strong performance plus fuel savings may think twice after seeing these results. Falling to the very end means issues go deeper than in nearly every other new truck around.

Major reliability collapse:

  • Just 7 out of 100 reliability’s nearly bottomed out
  • Big problems with the gearbox plus the powertrain
  • Mixed glitches across gadgets and add-ons
  • Hybrid battery flagged as a key problem area

Trouble zones flagged by CR in the F-150 Power Boost cover lots of key parts. Instead of just surface stuff, we’re talking serious hardware like the drivetrain, which keeps everything moving. When those go wrong, it’s not a quick fix; think high costs, days stuck off the road, real headaches. It hits harder if you rely on your truck daily, especially hauling big loads. For people counting on their ride to perform, these flaws aren’t small they shake trust in the whole machine.

Beyond the main engine parts, Power Boost runs into headaches with its AC, gadgets, or dashboard tech. Though not as serious as a broken gearbox, nagging glitches here still mess up daily comfort and ease. Say, when power windows fail often those fancy perks meant to wow customers start feeling flaky. On top of that, the hybrid batteries flagged as shaky a real red flag since it’s key for any hybrid; swapping one burns a big hole in your pocket down the road. All these flaws together? That’s why it lands flat at the bottom for dependability among brand-new cars this year.

2. Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon

Tied by common design and parts, the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon got a joint reliability rating of 15/100. That poor mark puts these well-known midsize pickups near the bottom for dependability in 2025’s new vehicle lineup. Since truck shoppers usually need strong performance plus tough builds, this news raises real red flags. Ongoing flaws hint at trouble ahead whether you’re using it daily or hauling gear for work, downtime and repair costs might pile up.

Widespread component weakness:

  • Only 15 out of 100 trust level’s real low
  • Issues seen with engine plus gearbox
  • Several wiring issues along with broken parts
  • Faults in oversight throughout various models

The issues flagged by Consumer Reports cover a wide range from major mechanical parts to small details on how the car looks and works. Problems with the engine stand out, along with slight glitches in the transmission. Even though the transmission hiccups seem small, anything tied to the drivetrain might turn into big headaches later costly fixes, unexpected breakdowns, even shorter life for the car. Trouble under the hood, especially in recent versions, raises red flags because it hints at core mistakes in design or builds quality; these aren’t easy or cheap to fix, and they shake confidence in what should be reliable machinery.

Beyond the main engine setup, these rigs show lots of build flaws. Electrical add-ons along with paint jobs and panels often fail early. Rattles plus water seepage pop up way too much. Body parts like handles or hinges feel flimsy, while onboard tech glitches without warning. Sure, dents or scratched trims look minor at first glance yet together they hint at sloppy factory work. Squeaks or drips could mean weak frames or bad seals underneath. Faulty gadgets inside don’t just annoy they pile on stress every time they act up. When so many different pieces go wrong regularly, it signals a ride that may fall apart faster than expected, leaving fresh buyers holding a money pit.

Rivian-r1t-2021” by Photo by Rivian is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

3. Rivian R1T

The Rivian R1T, a much-hyped electric truck, lands at just 20 out of 100 for expected dependability sitting near the bottom in Consumer Reports’ 2025 list. That matters more because the company itself ranks dead last among car brands, scoring only 18/100 on reliability. Even with advanced features and a steep average price around $85K, this model faces numerous problems, showing expensive doesn’t mean better or trouble-free.

EV tech troubles:

  • Critical breakdowns in EV batteries or the systems that charge them
  • Faults in many devices or circuits
  • Brake issues along with troubles in the frame components
  • Fancy cost doesn’t match how well it works

The main issues with the Rivian R1T tend to show up in parts unique to electric cars, showing how tough it’s been for newer brands trying to nail down advanced EV tech. Battery performance and charging setup stand out as common pain points. Since these pieces are central to an EV’s function, glitches here mess with driving distance, refill time, and day-to-day reliability turning road trips or regular drives into stressful guesses. Because certain EV features are still fresh, along with fast-paced upgrades across the industry, first buyers might run into more hiccups compared to older gas-powered models.

The R1T faces problems across several areas like climate control, braking, body parts, electrical features, paint finish, odd sounds or leaks, plus infotainment glitches. These widespread hiccups hint that Rivian’s dealing with tricky EV engineering as well as basic production flaws. Brake troubles aren’t just annoying they’re risky. Meanwhile, ongoing faults in panel fit or coating tend to frustrate buyers fast, particularly since this truck aims at the premium market. All this adds up to a bold machine that might still fall short on reliability, leaving owners budgeting extra cash for fixes down the road. Also keep in mind: Cox Automotive, which runs Kelley Blue Book and Autotrader, holds a small stake in Rivian – but Consumer Reports’ findings stand regardless.

4. Ford Escape Hybrid

Ford’s name pops up again here this time with the Escape Hybrid scoring just 21/100 in predicted reliability, showing yet another one of their hybrids isn’t holding up well over time. What makes this odd? Well, most hybrid engines tend to last longer and cause fewer headaches across the car industry. But owners keep reporting issues with the Escape Hybrid, which goes against what we usually expect from such vehicles. That means shoppers hoping to save gas without future troubles might still run into surprises. Turns out, even if two cars use similar tech, how they’re built really matters in the end.

Hybrid weak point exposure:

  • Battery marked might need swapping out soon
  • Brakes plus electrical problems with the motor
  • Electronic accessory malfunction
  • Issues with how it’s made like sounds or drips

Ford’s not alone here take the Escape Hybrid, scoring just 21/100 in predicted reliability, showing yet another one of their hybrids with shaky staying power. That result stands out because most hybrid engines tend to run solidly across the car world. Still, real-world issues flooding in about this SUV clash hard against that usual trustiness. So, if you’re after better gas mileage but don’t want headaches down the road, this pick might backfire. Bottom line it doesn’t matter if it’s labeled ‘hybrid’; how it’s built makes all the difference.

The top issue flagged for the Escape Hybrid? Its hybrid battery Consumer Reports says it might need swapping out. Big problem if you own a hybrid, since that part’s super pricey once warranty coverage ends, possibly wiping out any money saved on gas over time. Swapping the battery later can spike overall costs, adding real financial risk. Smart shoppers should weigh this downside before buying.

On top of worries about the hybrid battery, the Ford Escape Hybrid tends to have trouble in other spots too. Brake troubles show up often this matters a lot since they keep you safe. Electrical gadgets inside the car sometimes stop working, messing with how smoothly things run day to day. Glitches tied to the engine’s electronics hint at hidden flaws in how power is managed. Some owners hear odd sounds or spot fluid leaks, signs that parts might not fit right during assembly. Over time, those little faults could grow into bigger headaches without attention. All this adds up: it’s a car that helps cut emissions but may cost more effort and cash to keep going compared to others like it.

Jeep Grand Cherokee” by Petr Magera is licensed under CC BY 2.0

5. Jeep Grand Cherokee & Grand Cherokee L

The Jeep Grand Cherokee along with its larger sibling, the Grand Cherokee L lands at just 22 out of 100 for expected reliability, making it one of the riskier choices among new SUVs in 2025. These two models, central to Jeep’s current lineup, point to deeper problems within the brand, which Consumer Reports rates poorly (matching GMC at 33/100). If you’re eyeing the Grand Cherokee for its tough look, trail-ready performance, or roomy cabin, think twice about possible repair hassles down the road. Trouble shows up everywhere not just here and there but throughout major parts of the vehicle.

System-wide reliability breakdown:

  • Big problems in the drivetrain also electrical parts linked to the motor aren’t working right
  • Turning, ride comfort also stopping power all took a hit
  • Several gadgets plus devices stopped working
  • Sounds, drips also issue with the cooling setup

Consumer Reports points out serious flaws across many parts of both Grand Cherokee versions nearly hitting every key area. When it comes to getting the car moving, trouble with the drivetrain or engine wiring raises red flags. Instead of smooth operation, drivers might face jerky responses or worse, sudden stalls. Because these vehicles are built for tough roads and changing terrain, weak spots in such essential systems break what buyers actually rely on them for.

The Grand Cherokee often has serious flaws in its heating and cooling setup, along with shaky steering or bumpy rides due to weak suspension both making drives less smooth or predictable when roads get rough. Faulty climate systems bring constant annoyance, whereas loose steering shakes trust behind the wheel, especially off pavement or in bad weather. When brakes act up, it’s not just annoying it becomes risky fast. On top of that, failing door parts, glitchy power features, broken interior gadgets, strange sounds, or dripping water add to a growing list of headaches. All this mess points toward poor assembly and mismatched tech under the hood. Owning one might mean frequent shop trips not only for fixes but also extra costs piling on past basic oil changes.

6. Nissan Frontier

The Nissan Frontier, well-liked among midsize pickups, shows up on Consumer Reports’ 2025 list of least dependable new trucks rated just 27 out of 100. Because many people buying trucks want solid build quality plus steady operation whether on job sites or weekend trips, this low rating raises red flags. Even though it looks tough and works hard, being on the list suggests real-world problems might show up, possibly making it less attractive over time.

Frontier reliability snapshot:

  • Low forecasted trustworthiness just 27 out of 100
  • Fears about toughness even though it seems tough yet appearance doesn’t always match reality
  • Engine troubles or electrical glitches might show up
  • Fewer chances you’ll keep it running smoothly over time

The Nissan Frontier, which many people like in the mid-size truck group, shows up on Consumer Reports’ 2025 list of newest cars with the worst dependability getting only 27 points out of 100. Buyers looking for trucks that last and run well every time might think twice when they see this rating. Even though it looks tough and gets jobs done, problems reported by drivers suggest real headaches down the road.

A big worry with the Frontier is how it handles power delivery through its transmission and drivetrain. When these key parts fail, the truck might struggle to run right sparking fixes that take forever and cost way too much. If you’re pulling heavy loads, even small hiccups here can mess up performance and make owning one more hassle than expected. We’re talking major breakdowns; not just little glitches stuff that needs real focus.

The Nissan Frontier isn’t just let down by its engine electrical bits, brakes, paintwork, odd sounds, drips, and loose parts add to the headaches. Sure, chipped paint or cracked trim looks bad, but when paired with constant creaks or water sneaking in, it hints at sloppy build habits. Faulty electronics kill the ease and usefulness folks want in today’s trucks, whereas dodgy brakes? That’s straight-up dangerous. All these flaws piling up mean owning a Frontier could get messy fast if you’re hoping for smooth sailing over time.

Jeep Wrangler JK” by JamesHenry is licensed under CC BY 2.0

7. Jeep Wrangler

The legendary Jeep Wrangler known for tough trails and a look all its own is expected to land a shaky 27/100 reliability rating by Consumer Reports in 2025. That puts it in the same group as other new cars prone to issues, creating a puzzle for fans who love its strength yet face possible headaches down the road.

Wrangler weak points:

  • Motor issues along with small gearbox problems
  • Uneven steering or shaky suspension
  • Issues with how it’s made like parts failing, dripping, or making sounds
  • Faulty gadgets tend to act up

The legendary Jeep Wrangler is famous for tackling rough terrain and standing out with bold styling, yet it’s expected to land only 27 out of 100 on reliability in 2025, according to Consumer Reports. That puts it in the same group as many newer vehicles known for frequent issues; so, fans may feel torn between loving its strength while bracing for repair headaches. Sure, this SUV holds a special spot that makes people accept odd little flaws, but repeated problems might wear down even loyal drivers.

Consumer Reports points out key flaws in the Wrangler engine troubles stand out, along with small hiccups in the transmission. These transmission glitches aren’t total breakdowns, yet they may cause odd shifts, extra trips to the shop, or added strain over time. When it comes to engines, even slight issues matter more in a rig built for rough use; poor power delivery or stalling could mess with daily drives or trail confidence just as much. Trouble under tough conditions tends to snowball fast, shaking trust in what’s supposed to be a dependable machine.

On top of everything, the Wrangler often acts up with steering and suspension this messes with how it drives, feels on rough roads, plus overall safety when tackling tough trails. Brakes don’t always work right, which is obviously risky. Rattling sounds or fluid leaks pop up now and then, along with shaky hinges and clunky parts outside, hinting the thing might not hold up well under heavy use. Inside, gadgets glitch out more than you’d expects, so instead of smooth tech perks, you’re left dealing with glitches. All this adds up to extra trips to the shop.

8. Ford F-150 Lightning

The Ford F-150 Lightning, an electric version of the nation’s top-selling pickup, scored just 28 out of 100 on projected dependability according to Consumer Reports’ 2025 data. That places it among vehicles struggling with consistency especially newer EVs making their way into the market.

Lightning EV issues at a glance:

  • EV battery concerns & charging failures
  • Early-generation EV system glitches
  • Electrical accessories prone to malfunction
  • Advanced tech brings chances of failure

The Ford F-150 Lightning, an electric version of the country’s top-selling truck, scored just 28 out of 100 on reliability predictions in Consumer Reports’ 2025 review. That places it among vehicles struggling with dependability especially newer EVs hitting the market lately. Although this pickup delivers strong performance without emissions or fuel needs, early signs point to hiccups tied to advanced tech. So, unlike gas-powered models people know well, it brings different kinds of uncertainties.

Biggest issue? The F-150 Lightning’s electric setup has weak points especially the battery and charging parts. These bits keep an EV running; if they act up, you lose driving distance or face spotty charge behavior, maybe even expensive fixes. When drivers depend on their trucks far from cities or out on long trips, hiccups in power storage or plug-in systems mess up daily routines. What seemed like a smart upgrade suddenly feels more annoying than helpful.

Beyond the main electric parts, the Lightning sometimes struggles with gadgets inside the cabin. Since it’s loaded with high-tech screens and digital tools, hiccups here can mess up how things feel day to day turning handy tricks into guesswork. These aren’t life-or-death like motor troubles, but constant bugs mean more trips to the shop. It shows even cutting-edge trucks still run into basic wiring quirks. Anyone looking at the F-150 Lightning should keep in mind possible electronic gremlins popping up alongside its new-EV traits.

9. Genesis G70

The Genesis G70, a high-end sporty car praised for how it drives and looks, gets a forecasted dependability rating of 29 out of 100 by Consumer Reports in 2025. That puts it near the bottom for trustworthiness among fresh cars going against the idea that fancy autos are naturally more reliable.

G70 reliability concerns:

  • Faults tied to the motor or how it gets gas
  • A little glitch in the signal throws off how things run together
  • Weather issues, shaky rides, or brakes acting up often seen together
  • Luxury feel sometimes slips little flaws in the trim or fittings show up now and then

The Genesis G70 is a sleek sports sedan known for strong performance, yet its 2025 reliability rating sits at just 29 out of 100, according to Consumer Reports. That puts it near the bottom for dependability among new cars, which goes against the idea that luxury always means long-term trust. If you’re eyeing a high-end ride, keep in mind the G70’s appeal on paper could come with more frequent repair worries. So don’t judge only by how it feels behind the wheel or looks up front; dig into real-world service history before deciding.

Some weak points in the Genesis G70 cover major parts that keep it running. Problems show up in the engine, fuel setup, or sometimes the gearbox. Even small gearbox hiccups won’t stop the car right away, yet they may mess with how smoothly it drives and adds expensive fixes later. Issues with the engine or fuel side go straight to the heart of what makes the car work leading to big repair costs while hurting performance and resale worth. These kinds of flaws sting extra hard in a class where flawless driving matters most.

Few other areas on the G70 act up too electrical bits, AC, steering or suspension, braking parts, outer finish, and door handles or latches. A glitch in cooling or heating zaps cabin ease fast. When the front end feels loose or clunky, it kills the sharp moves this class promises. Faulty stoppers aren’t just annoying they’re risky. Scratched panels or peeling trims hint at sloppy checks during assembly, which drags down daily joy. That kind of slip happens even among premium names. Genesis as a whole land at 40 out of 100 for dependability, so hiccups might pop up no matter the model.

2020 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro (Netherlands) front view” by Dennis Elzinga is licensed under CC BY 2.0

10. Volkswagen ID.4

The Volkswagen ID.4, part of the growing electric SUV scene, got a low forecasted reliability rating just 29/100 from Consumer Reports for 2025. Despite being a main model in VW’s EV lineup, seeing it here shows how tough it is for automakers to roll out new electric tech without sacrificing steady performance or build quality.

ID.4 EV problem summary:

  • Battery troubles plus similar charging glitches reflect what’s happening across the sector
  • Faults found in the drive setup also showing issues in the climate controls
  • Electronic devices plus apps keep acting up across many places
  • Trust in the brand drops when prices are cut

The Volkswagen ID.4, part of the growing electric SUV scene, got a 29 out of 100 reliabilities forecast from Consumer Reports for 2025. Despite being a main highlight in VW’s electric lineup, seeing it here shows how tough it is for carmakers to roll out new EV tech without sacrificing steady performance. People thinking about switching to electric driving with this model should know early use might bring typical electronic hiccups some unique to EVs, others just common glitches.

Much like other recent electric cars, the ID.4 struggles mainly with its battery and how it charges both key to driving distance, power delivery, and everyday use. When things go wrong here, owners might face longer charge waits or worry about the battery wearing out fast or even dying early which often means steep repair bills. These setbacks show that EV tech is still changing, leaving automakers and buyers alike figuring things out as they go.

Faults pile up on top of each other, making trust harder on top of existing doubts, the VW ID.4 runs into trouble with how it drives, its heating and cooling, power-powered extras, stopping ability, parts holding things together, weird sounds or drips, along with built-in tech gadgets. How it moves down the road might get shaky, whereas broken climate controls mess with how cozy riders feel inside. So many glitches tied to powered add-ons and onboard screens hint at deeper hiccups merging code or circuits a known headache in today’s computer-heavy cars. When brakes act up, safety takes a hit; meanwhile constant creaks, fluid seepage, and loose bits point toward looser oversight during build time, chipping away at owner happiness later on. As a company, Volkswagen lands a mere 34 out of 100 for expected dependability, adding more weight to why this EV raises eyebrows.

John Faulkner is Road Test Editor at Clean Fleet Report. He has more than 30 years’ experience branding, launching and marketing automobiles. He has worked with General Motors (all Divisions), Chrysler (Dodge, Jeep, Eagle), Ford and Lincoln-Mercury, Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan and Toyota on consumer events and sales training programs. His interest in automobiles is broad and deep, beginning as a child riding in the back seat of his parent’s 1950 Studebaker. He is a journalist member of the Motor Press Guild and Western Automotive Journalists.
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