DRIVERS have been cautioned about multiple car companies that have been prompting consumer complaints.
Five popular automakers were slammed for vehicles that have been breaking down frequently.
Five popular automakers were slammed for shoddy vehicles[/caption]
Tesla owners were predicted to pay $4,320 on maintenance in a 5-year period[/caption]
Cadillac owners are looking at an average of $6,875 in repairs over 10 years[/caption]
These five auto brands were evaluated on 20 possible problem spots, ranging from squeaky brakes to charging system breakdowns, as reported by GoBankingRates.
Several factors contribute to a car’s reliability, including build quality, the use of durable components, and consistent, preventative maintenance.
Generally, drivers seek a reliable car that requires minimal maintenance, avoids frequent breakdowns, and retains its value over time.
Cadillac might scream luxury, but under the hood, things aren’t always so smooth.
The 2025 XT5 and Lyriq models both flunked reliability tests, which could mean big trouble down the line.
Over 10 years, owners are looking at an average of $6,875 in repairs—on top of a starting price that can hit nearly $70K.
Jeep may be made for the rugged outdoors, but owning one can be a rough ride for your wallet.
The 2025 Gladiator, Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, and Grand Cherokee L all scored low on reliability, raising eyebrows among car experts.
With average maintenance costs of around $6,470 over a decade, that adventure lifestyle comes at a hefty price.
GMC might boast brawny trucks and sleek EVs, but don’t be fooled—reliability isn’t its strong suit.
Models like the Sierra 1500, Canyon, and Yukon XL didn’t perform well in long-term dependability ratings.
Whether you go gas or electric, both new and used GMCs have a track record that’s a little too shaky for comfort.
Rivian may look like the future of driving, but according to GoBankingRates, it’s the worst in terms of reliability.
The 2025 R1T and R1S—both starting well north of $75K—are more likely to break down than cruise smoothly.
How can I check if my car is part of a recall?
If you own a car that’s been recently recalled, you can easily check your VIN.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) makes it incredibly quick and easy for drivers to check and see if their vehicle is part of a recent (or past) recall.
The VIN checking tool also allows drivers to see whether or not the repair was completed within the last 15 years, making it an incredible tool for buyers of used cars.
All recalls initiated by the NHTSA mean free repairs for drivers, even if it’s an engine or a transmission replacement. If your VIN shows an active recall that has not been repaired, it’s important to make an appointment at your nearest dealership.
Here’s how to make an appointment for a recall:
- Look up your VIN using the NHTSA tool.
- Find out the recall number/ID from the manufacturer.
- Call your nearest dealership’s service center with the ID number handy, and mention you’d like to schedule an appointment to repair the recall. The repair can only be done at a dealership, as they’re authorized by the manufacturer to conduct the repair free of cost using genuine parts.
- Try to make the appointment as soon as possible.
- Once the repair is completed, the dealership will update the information associated with the VIN to reflect it’s been completed.
Source: NHTSA
Owners love the ride quality and EV perks, but mechanical issues might leave you stranded with a very expensive paperweight.
Tesla continues to dominate EV headlines, but when it comes to reliability, it’s a bumpy road.
The Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X all scored below average for predicted performance.
Early owners can expect to pay up to $4,320 on maintenance in just five years—proof that sleek design doesn’t always mean smooth sailing.
With some models racking up over $6,000 in repairs within the first decade, it pays to check reliability ratings before committing to a car that might cost you more in the long run than it’s worth.
Cadillac, Jeep, GMC, Rivian, and Tesla did not immediately respond to The U.S. Sun’s request for comment.
