When purchasing a new car, buyers often expect reliability and a hassle-free ownership experience. According to Consumer Reports, however, their latest analysis report strongly indicates that certain vehicles are likely to fall short in this regard. This compilation highlights the five cars to avoid buying in 2025 based on extensive data collected from over 300,000 vehicles, letting potential buyers know just which least reliable models to steer clear of.
Ford Escape Hybrid and Rivian R1T take fifth and fourth place, respectively
The Ford Escape Hybrid has held a tumultuous reputation over the years. Despite a brief resurgence in reliability with its 2023 model, the 2025 iteration has been flagged by Consumer Reports as one of the least reliable vehicles. Key trouble areas include the hybrid battery, brakes, and various electrical components.
With a reliability score of just 21 out of 100, chances are that you will have no choice but to frequently service this troubled car.
The Rivian R1T, an electric vehicle (EV) that has garnered considerable attention, ranks fourth on this list with a score of 20. While it has made waves for its innovative features, the R1T is plagued by issues in its drive system, climate control, and electrical accessories.
Despite being a new entrant in the EV market, Rivian’s struggles in reliability could dissuade potential buyers hoping to own a dependable electric truck.
Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon tie for second place
Although being a popular midsize pickup, the Chevrolet Colorado has also made the list with a concerning reliability score of 15.
Trouble spots include engine issues and minor transmission problems—this can lead to costly repairs over time. As such, you may want to opt for a trusted alternative instead of the Colorado.
Sharing the same score as the Colorado, the GMC Canyon falls just short of the top spot. Similar to its sibling model, it faces challenges with engine performance and electrical accessories.v Such concerns mean that potential buyers should reconsider before investing in this truck.
Least reliable car for 2025: And the winner is…
Taking the dubious honor of being the least reliable vehicle for 2025 is the Ford F-150 Hybrid, which received a dismal reliability score of 7. For one of America’s most iconic trucks, the F-150 Hybrid has been soundly criticized for serious issues across multiple areas, including its transmission, drive system, and hybrid battery. Naturally, these reliability concerns may be shocking to loyal customers and could lead to significant frustration for new buyers.
While the main focus is on these five vehicles, other car models were also highlighted by Consumer Reports for their underwhelming reliability:
- Volkswagen ID.4 (Score: 29): Issues with the EV battery and climate system make this electric SUV a risky choice.
- Genesis G70 (Score: 29): This luxury sedan is riddled with engine and transmission problems.
- Ford F-150 Lightning (Score: 28): Another Ford model, it faces similar reliability issues as its hybrid sibling, especially with its EV battery.
- Jeep Wrangler (Score: 27): The rugged Wrangler has persistent challenges regarding its engine and electrical system.
- Nissan Frontier (Score: 27): This truck encounters reliability issues mainly with its transmission and electrical accessories.
As you can see, while purchasing a new car is a significant financial commitment, reliability should be a key consideration. The findings from Consumer Reports serve as a crucial guide for potential buyers looking to avoid car models that could lead to ongoing maintenance headaches and costly repair bills. As the analysis shows, the Ford F-150 Hybrid stands out as the least reliable choice for 2025, a surprising revelation that has long been a favorite among truck enthusiasts.