The first thing you’ll want to know before buying a new car is whether or not it’s dependable. Of course, you can’t say that without first getting behind the wheel of the vehicle, and that’s where Consumer Reports comes to your aid. Similar to previous years, it has published a list of the most and least dependable automakers as well as the most and least dependable vehicles for 2023. Lots of data was pulled to make these conclusions of the most unreliable cars.

After gathering data from more than 300,000 car owners over the previous three model years, forecasts were formed. Additionally, the list of vehicles considered to be the least reliable is a little shocking, even though automobiles like the Toyota Corolla Hybrid or Lexus GX are among the most dependable cars of 2023. Even more shocking is the fact that Mercedes was named the least dependable brand by Consumer Reports for the very first time!

Before making a decision, prospective car buyers should thoroughly research and test drive vehicles, consider long-term ownership costs, and read reviews from both experts and fellow owners. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your specific needs, preferences, and tolerance for potential reliability issues.

I’m a huge car nut, and LOVE doing these kinds of blog posts. Let’s dive in to this list of the most unreliable cars for 2023!

The Data Sources

The majority of the data used to construct the information below came from the Consumer Reports website, but also incorporated information from RepairPal, CarEdge, and J.D. Power.

• 1. 2023 Jeep Wrangler

  The Jeep Wrangler is renowned for its off-road prowess but is unreliable in everyday use. Consumer Reports claims that even on smooth roads, it exhibits constant brief motions that make it twitchy, making its on-road performance inferior to that of contemporary SUVs. It feels out of place on highways.

  The steering/suspension and interior electronics of the Jeep Wrangler have been claimed to be problematic by owners. Another common issue is excessive noise when driving.

  $634 yearly maintenance costs (RepairPal)
  Estimated Maintenance Over 10 Years: $10,397 (CarEdge)
  5 recalls

• 2. 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe

  The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe boasts a distinctive and futuristic outward look compared to other premium cars, which can be a divisive trait. Its dependability, though, falls short.

  Consumer Reports claims that while the GLE offers a smooth ride and a quiet cabin, using the controls may be difficult, and the keyless entry system frequently leads to issues. The electronics, engine, temperature control, and hardware of the car are frequently a source of complaints from owners and lessees.

  Costs of annual upkeep: $908
  Maintenance Cost Estimated for 10 Years: $14,738
  Recalls: 1 (molding on the rear door window).

• 3. 2023 Jeep Gladiator

  The Jeep Gladiator, which is simply the Jeep Wrangler in a truck form, has many of the same reliability issues as its sibling. Although it fills the void left by the 1985 Jeep Scrambler’s retirement, it is not advised for daily usage as a dependable truck. According to Consumer Reports, the Gladiator is more appropriate for off-roading.

  Owners of Gladiators assert that the vehicle has issues with the electrical system, engine, transmission, brakes, and power equipment.

  Costs of annual upkeep: $634
  Cost of Ten-Year Maintenance: $11,803
  Clutch pressure plate: 1 recall

• 4. 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 / GMC Sierra 1500

  Surprisingly, the popular GMC Sierra 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 are named among the least dependable vehicles for 2023. In 2022, approximately 48,000 Silverado 1500 vehicles were sold, therefore their presence was unexpected.

  Consumer Reports noted a number of problems with the Silverado, including those related to fuel economy, gearbox security, the engine, and the brakes. Owners detail infotainment system faults, engine failures, electrical problems, drivetrain problems, and braking troubles.

  Costs of Annual Maintenance: $649
  $10,03 in estimated ten-year maintenance
  Recalls: 1 (lighting outside).

   

• 5. 2023 Chevrolet Bolt

  Recently, electric automobiles have become very popular, providing an environmentally beneficial alternative to conventional gas-powered cars. Nevertheless, reliability issues have plagued the Chevrolet Bolt virtually yearly since 2016. 2020 saw the need to halt manufacturing because of a significant battery fire recall. It is currently the last year of manufacture, which is 2023.

  The Bolt is one of the least dependable electric vehicles on the market, according to Consumer Reports. Battery pack, charging, electric drive system, climate control, and in-car electronics are just a few of the reported issues.

  Costs of Annual Maintenance: $649
  Recalls: 1 (fire dangers associated with the deployment of seat belt pretensioners)

• 6. 2023 Ford Explorer

  The 2023 Ford Explorer doesn’t have the same level of dependability as its rivals, despite its robust sales. The Ford Explorer is listed as one of the worst midsize SUVs by Consumer Reports, with owners citing a variety of issues, including transmission and power equipment failures.

  Its transmission, powertrain, body components, steering, suspension, temperature control, paint, and leaks have all been problematic.

  Costs for yearly upkeep: $775 (RepairPal)
  Estimated Maintenance Over 10 Years: $9,017 (CarEdge)
  Recalls: 3 (problems with the backup camera and the engine)

   

• 7. 2023 Nissan Sentra

  For buyers who are on a tight budget and are seeking for a dependable, little sedan, the 2023 Nissan Sentra can seem intriguing. The whole ownership experience is, however, impacted by claimed issues with the brakes, climate control, paint, noise, and leaks. Additionally, the Sentra’s halogen headlights cast a dim light and reduce safety in low-light situations.

  $500 yearly maintenance costs (RepairPal)
  Estimated Maintenance Over a Ten-Year Period: $5,441 (CarEdge)
  0 recalls

• 8. 2023 Lincoln Aviator

  The 2023 Lincoln Aviator offers a smooth ride and a quiet interior, but owners and lessees have complained about problems with the climate control, steering, suspension, electronics, and entertainment systems.

  In addition, there have been a number of recalls concerning seat belts, backup cameras, powertrain issues, and seat belts that might come loose while driving. The 2023 Lincoln Aviator should be approached with caution due to these problems and high maintenance expenses.

  Costs for yearly upkeep: $879 (RepairPal)
  Estimated Maintenance Over a Ten-Year Period: $11,691 (CarEdge)
  4 recalls

   

• 9. 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric

  Under $50,000, the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric is a practical, enjoyable-to-drive electric vehicle that also has outstanding fuel economy. Due to several problems with its battery pack, charging, electric drive system, climate control, and in-car electronics, it has been named as one of the least dependable automobiles in 2023. Current owners have complained about these issues, which have a negative impact on the vehicle’s overall dependability.

  The cost of annual maintenance is $468 (RepairPal).
  Price of Ten-Year Maintenance: $7,871 (CarEdge)
  0 recalls

• 10. 2023 Ford F-150 Hybrid

  A strong vehicle with exceptional towing capabilities and a fuel-efficient hybrid drivetrain, the 2023 Ford F-150 Hybrid. Owners have, however, mentioned problems with the electrical setup, machinery, motor system, noises, and leaks. They claim that it is less comfortable than its rivals because to its hard ride quality and clunky handling.

  Costs for yearly upkeep: $775 (RepairPal)
  Estimated Maintenance Over a Ten-Year Period: $10,245 (CarEdge)
  0 recalls

Get The QYK Country Connections Newsletter

Enjoy the latest Country music & entertainment news, Tampa/St. Pete happenings, plus exclusive contests, games, and more.

Email *

Subscribe

By clicking "Subscribe" I agree to the website's terms of Service and Privacy Policy. I understand I can unsubscribe at any time.