The car brands that break down most often in the U.S. can be summarized as follows based on multiple surveys.

In fact, even if a brand is known for frequent breakdowns, many people still buy them due to dealer persuasion, and there are personal preferences, so they are not completely unpopular cars, which is the irony haha.

This information is based on the latest data (2023) from Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and other research institutions, including common issues by brand and model examples.

Car Brands with High Breakdown Rates in the U.S. in 2023

1. Land Rover

   • Main Issues: Electronic system defects, engine/transmission issues, high maintenance costs

   • Ranked lowest in J.D. Power reliability survey with a PP100 of 273 (number of problems) for 3-year-old vehicles.

   • Representative Models: Range Rover, Discovery

2. Jeep

   • Main Issues: Transmission defects, suspension problems, low reliability of electrical systems

   • Ranked lowest among 30 brands in Consumer Reports 2023 survey.

   • Representative Models: Wrangler, Gladiator

3. Chrysler

   • Main Issues: Engine overheating, infotainment system errors

   • Ranked 3rd in J.D. Power with a PP100 of 265, frequent issues reported with the minivan "Pacifica".

4. Volkswagen

   • Main Issues: Electrical system defects, declining reliability of DSG transmission

   • Ranked 28th in Consumer Reports, particularly issues with battery management in the ID.4 electric vehicle.

5. Mercedes-Benz

   • Main Issues: Complex electronic device errors, climate control system problems

   • Significant drop in reliability score among luxury brands (Customer Reports 2023 ranked 29th).

6. Alfa Romeo

   • Main Issues: Engine cooling system, software bugs

   • Ranked lowest among European cars in J.D. Power survey.

It is advisable to carefully check model reviews and maintenance reliability reviews by brand.

Unless it's a lease, I've seen many people struggle when selling their used cars later.