The Most Unreliable SUVs Under $40,000 - 2023 Edition

TLDRDiscover the 8 least reliable SUV models under $40,000 in 2023, including the Hyundai Kona, Ford Bronco Sport, Jeep Compass, Mercedes-Benz GLA, Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Explorer, Kia Sorento, and Volkswagen Taos.

Key insights

🚗The promise of a hassle-free ownership experience entices car buyers, but some new car owners face frequent trips to the service department.

🔧Consumer Reports analyzes 17 potential trouble spots to assess the reliability of new cars, including engines, transmissions, brakes, power equipment, and electrical systems.

⚠️The eight least reliable SUV models for 2023, based on Consumer Reports data, are the Hyundai Kona, Ford Bronco Sport, Jeep Compass, Mercedes-Benz GLA, Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Explorer, Kia Sorento, and Volkswagen Taos.

⭐️These SUV models have various issues ranging from unreliable engines and malfunctioning electrical systems to transmission problems and body hardware issues.

🛠️Owners have reported problems such as excessive oil consumption, knocking noises, stalling engines, and difficulty starting the vehicles.

Q&A

Which SUVs have the lowest reliability rating for 2023?

The Hyundai Kona, Ford Bronco Sport, Jeep Compass, Mercedes-Benz GLA, Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Explorer, Kia Sorento, and Volkswagen Taos have the lowest reliability ratings based on Consumer Reports data.

What are some common problems with these SUV models?

Common problems include unreliable engines, malfunctioning electrical systems, transmission issues, body hardware problems, and difficulties starting the vehicles.

Why is reliability important for car buyers?

Reliability is important because it ensures a hassle-free ownership experience, saving owners from frequent trips to the service department and unexpected repair costs.

Are there any reliable SUVs under $40,000?

Yes, there are many reliable SUVs under $40,000. It is important to research and consider factors such as Consumer Reports' reliability ratings, owner satisfaction scores, and professional reviews when choosing a reliable SUV.

Should I avoid buying these SUV models?

While these SUV models have low reliability ratings, it is ultimately up to the buyer to decide. It is recommended to thoroughly research and consider factors such as reliability ratings, owner reviews, and professional opinions before making a purchase decision.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Buying a brand new car promises a hassle-free ownership experience, but some new car owners face frequent visits to the service department.

01:35The Hyundai Kona, Ford Bronco Sport, Jeep Compass, Mercedes-Benz GLA, Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Explorer, Kia Sorento, and Volkswagen Taos are the least reliable SUV models under $40,000 in 2023, based on Consumer Reports data.

03:35Common problems with these SUV models include unreliable engines, malfunctioning electrical systems, transmission issues, and body hardware problems.

05:54The Ford Explorer and Kia Sorento have been plagued with various issues, including transmission trouble and electrical system problems.

08:30The Volkswagen Taos takes the top spot as the most unreliable SUV in the US under $40,000 category, with major and minor engine problems, electrical component issues, transmission failure, defective fuel system, and drivetrain problems.