Buying or leasing a new or gently used vehicle is a big decision. As you explore your options, you want to trust that the car you choose will operate smoothly and safely. Unfortunately, not all vehicles work perfectly—safety risks may arise seemingly out of nowhere. Suddenly, you may find yourself taking your car or truck to the dealership in search of answers and lasting solutions to the recurring problem. Although the dealership may be able to identify the source of the issue and repair it for good, some defects may elude inspection and cause recurring problems and safety concerns indefinitely. If you suspect that the vehicle you have purchased or leased is defective, California lemon law allows you to seek compensation for your troubles in the form of a replacement vehicle or refund. It’s best to enlist the support of a knowledgeable and experienced Berkeley lemon law attorney to guide you through each step of the process, helping you understand your options along the way. In the meantime, let’s take a look at some of the least reliable vehicles on the market, as well as the highest-rated trucks and cars out there, according to a Consumer Reports 2023 rankings report.
The Least Reliable Cars in 2023
According to a comprehensive survey asking drivers to rate the reliability of their vehicles, Consumer Reports identified ten makes and models that ranked the lowest. The agency collected survey data on 300,000 vehicles to calculate the least dependable new vehicles. Overall, the survey found that electric vehicles and pickup trucks received the lowest reliability ratings from customers. In contrast, hybrid vehicles earned the highest number of favorable ratings pertaining to dependability. Below are the five lowest-ranking 2023 vehicles when it comes to reliability.
Ford Explorer
Although the 2023 Ford Explorer SUV has only been on the market for a little while, the manufacturer has issued three safety-related recall campaigns. Two of these recall campaigns concern faulty review cameras that can reduce the driver’s rear visibility and increase the risk of a collision. Another investigation determined that these vehicles may contain a loose bolt in the transmission that can prevent the vehicle from remaining in the park position and increase the likelihood of a rollaway, crash, or injury.
Nissan Sentra
Those who own or lease a 2023 Nissan Sentra should know that the manufacturer has uncovered multiple issues with this make and model. Numerous problems with exterior lighting functions, such as the headlamp, fog lamp, and rear lights, have experienced recurring problems that jeopardize the vehicle’s overall safety, especially at night or in dark conditions. Additionally, reports of clicking noises or operational issues with the front or rear axle have arisen, prompting the manufacturer to warn drivers of potential safety concerns.
Lincoln Aviator
So far, the 2023 Lincoln Aviator SUV has become the subject of four separate auto safety recall campaigns. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), two recalls concern defects in the rearview camera display. These malfunctions can reduce the driver’s rear visibility and increase the risk of a crash. Another safety risk involves a malfunctioning seat belt warning system. In some cases, the audible warning chime alerting the driver of an unbelted seat can put the driver and passengers at risk of injury in the event of a hard stop or collision. The fourth recall pertains to the potential for the SUV to roll away because it may fail to be secured in the park position.
Hyundai Kona Electric
Many customers who have purchased or leased a 2023 Hyundai Kona electric vehicle should know that at least two significant defects have been identified since this model hit the market. One such issue concerns a misfiring “Check Electric Vehicle System” message that displays for no apparent reason. Even after multiple trips to the dealership, the underlying issue has not been identified. Other safety concerns pertain to faulty or unresponsive braking systems in these vehicles.
Ford F-150
The NHTSA has revealed that the 2023 Ford F-150 is impacted by three distinct auto safety recall notices. An investigation determined that many of these trucks contain a front axle pinion that has not been adequately heat-treated, increasing the likelihood that this delicate component will fracture and cause the loss of 4-wheel drive capability. In some cases, this issue may cause the front wheels to lock and increase the risk of a collision. A separate recall campaign involves a defect in the front passenger airbag system, which makes it possible for the airbag to fail to deploy when necessary and boosts the possibility of the seat occupant suffering an injury during a collision. The third safety recall focuses on a loose bolt in the transmission that makes it more likely that the truck will roll away or move because the park mode has not been sufficiently engaged.
The Most Reliable Vehicles in 2023
Now that we’ve identified the least-reliable trucks and cars currently on the market, let’s explore the opposite end of the spectrum. The vehicles that received the highest ratings for dependability include the 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata, the 2022 Toyota Prius, the 2023 Mini Cooper, the 2023 Lexus GX, and the 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid. Consumers who purchased or leased these makes and models have reported few to no issues or defects. They praise the quality of these vehicles and report that they feel safe driving them on the road, regardless of weather conditions.
How a Bay Area Lemon Law Attorney Can Help
There are few things more frustrating than owning or leasing an unreliable vehicle. If your car or truck is spending more time at the dealership than on the road where it belongs, it’s time to explore and understand your rights as a consumer under California’s lemon law. Working with a seasoned attorney is the best way to obtain your desired outcome. Together, you and your lawyer will assess the details of your case and identify the most strategic path forward.
If you are struggling with a vehicle that experiences recurring issues, call Lemon Law Partners, LLP, today at (510) 944-0336 to schedule a free case evaluation with a dedicated and friendly Berkeley attorney.
