Buyer Beware: 8 SUVs That Are Known to Fail Frequently Before 100,000 Miles

“BMW 335is E93 (5228079021)” by Christian Flores from Carlsbad / Encinitas, United States of America is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

SUVs have undeniably claimed a dominant position on our roads, and for a multitude of compelling reasons. Their imposing presence, expanded interior space, and versatile all-weather capabilities make them highly appealing choices for busy families, adventurous spirits, and daily commuters alike. Many of these vehicles are engineered with impressive durability, capable of exceeding 200,000 miles without major incident, embodying a true sense of long-term value.

However, a significant divergence exists within the SUV market. While some models are celebrated for their bulletproof engineering and minimal maintenance needs, others unfortunately struggle to surpass their warranty periods before owners face a cascade of expensive repairs. This crucial difference often boils down to fundamental aspects like reliability, inherent build quality, and long-term durability—qualities that are rarely evident from a glossy marketing brochure or a flashy television commercial.

This in-depth feature aims to arm consumers with critical insights, offering a clear-eyed warning about specific SUV models that have earned a reputation for frequent breakdowns well before reaching the 100,000-mile mark. These vehicles, often plagued by issues ranging from persistent transmission woes and electrical nightmares to poor parts quality and outright design flaws, can quickly transform from an exciting purchase into a frustrating money pit. Understanding these common pitfalls is essential for anyone shopping for a long-term companion rather than an unexpected burden.

1. **Jeep Cherokee (2014–2020)**The Jeep Cherokee, particularly the models produced between 2014 and 2020, appeared to hold immense promise. With its revitalized modern styling and a name deeply embedded in automotive heritage, it seemed poised to deliver a compact SUV experience that skillfully merged off-road capability with urban practicality. Yet, for a substantial number of owners, this generation of Cherokee instead delivered one of the most consistently frustrating ownership experiences in recent SUV history. This disappointment largely stemmed from significant mechanical flaws, most notably within its transmission system.

The heart of the Cherokee’s reliability woes can be traced directly to its ZF 9-speed automatic transmission. This unit, initially introduced with considerable fanfare for its supposed contributions to fuel efficiency and smooth shifting, unfortunately proved to be a consistent source of problems in real-world driving. Owners frequently reported a range of undesirable behaviors, including harsh shifts that jolted the cabin, noticeable hesitation during acceleration, unsettling clunking noises, and in numerous severe cases, outright transmission failure. Jeep attempted to address these widespread issues by issuing multiple software updates and recalls aimed at refining the shifting behavior, but despite these efforts, the fundamental problems persisted for many.

For many owners, the situation escalated beyond mere inconvenience; some units necessitated full replacement, sometimes more than once, long before the vehicle even approached the 100,000-mile threshold. Adding to this significant drivetrain concern was the performance of the 2.4-liter Tigershark inline-four engine, which became infamous for its excessive oil consumption. This issue frequently left owners finding their oil levels critically low between scheduled changes, an oversight that often led to severe engine damage if not constantly monitored and addressed. While the more powerful V6 engine option generally exhibited better performance, it too could not fully escape the shadow cast by the Cherokee’s overarching reputation for trouble.

Beyond the primary powertrain issues, electrical problems were also a recurring theme. Common complaints included persistent glitches within the Uconnect infotainment system, unpredictable illumination of various warning lights on the dashboard, failures of the backup camera system, and unreliable keyless entry mechanisms. The overall quality of interior materials, particularly evident in lower trim levels, also drew criticism for its tendency towards rapid wear and the development of bothersome rattles over relatively short periods of ownership. Despite Jeep’s storied off-road legacy, the capability of the Cherokee’s all-wheel-drive systems was often overshadowed by these pervasive reliability concerns, which impacted all trim levels equally.

This generation of Jeep Cherokee serves as a crucial case study because many unsuspecting buyers were drawn to it, believing they were acquiring a stylish and capable Jeep in a compact package. Instead, they frequently found themselves with a vehicle that too often left them stranded or facing unexpectedly high repair bills far earlier than any new vehicle owner should expect. The widespread negative experiences also took a toll on resale values, with used Cherokees frequently trading hands for significantly less than their competitors duea to their well-known poor reliability track record. If the goal is long-term dependability, the 2014–2020 Jeep Cherokee stands as a stark reminder of how ambitious engineering, when coupled with rushed or flawed execution, can create a vehicle that ultimately delivers more headaches than genuine utility.

Car Model Information: 2016 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk
Name: Jeep Cherokee
Caption: Fifth generation (KL)
Manufacturer: Jeep
Aka: Jeep Liberty
ModelYears: unbulleted list
Class: unbulleted list
Layout: unbulleted list
Chassis: unbulleted list
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, Anti-Indigenous racism in the United States, Articles with short description, Compact sport utility vehicles, Crossover sport utility vehicles
Summary: The Jeep Cherokee is a line of sport utility vehicles (SUV) manufactured and marketed by Jeep over six generations. Marketed initially as a variant of the Jeep Wagoneer (SJ), the Cherokee has evolved from a full-size station wagon (before the SUV description came into use) to one of the first compact SUVs and into its latest generation as a crossover SUV. Named after the Cherokee tribe of Native Americans in the United States, Jeep has used the nameplate in some capacity since late 1973 when American Motors Corporation (AMC) introduced the 1974 model year line. Production of the Cherokee ended in February 2023. The Cherokee nameplate has since been used by the Grand Cherokee and its extended version, the Grand Cherokee L.

Get more information about: Jeep Cherokee

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Brand: Jeep Model: Cherokee
Price: $5,999 Mileage: 242,441 mi.

2. **Ford Explorer (2011–2019)**The 2011–2019 Ford Explorer represented a significant pivot for one of America’s most recognizable SUV badges. Eschewing its traditional rugged body-on-frame construction for a more contemporary unibody design, this generation aimed to offer a more refined driving experience, enhanced family friendliness, and improved fuel efficiency. Regrettably, instead of being celebrated for innovation or comfort, this particular iteration of the Explorer became widely notorious for a series of serious reliability issues, ultimately making it a financially risky proposition for those hoping for long-term ownership.

Among the most pervasive and damaging complaints associated with this Explorer generation were those centered around its transmission. The 6-speed automatic units deployed throughout these model years gained a reputation for exhibiting a range of problematic behaviors, including harsh and abrupt shifting, alarming slipping between gears, noticeable hesitation during acceleration, and an unnerving tendency for premature failure. These critical issues frequently manifested well before the odometer even reached 80,000 miles. For an SUV that is often relied upon as a primary family transporter or a demanding fleet vehicle, such fundamental problems proved especially detrimental, leaving many owners facing thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses for rebuilt or, in some cases, repeatedly replaced transmissions.

Further compounding the Explorer’s reliability struggles were significant flaws within its cooling system and overall engine durability, a concern particularly pronounced in the turbocharged EcoBoost engines. While these engines were lauded for their respectable performance figures, they proved to be highly susceptible to issues such as overheating, problematic carbon buildup, premature turbo failures, and concerning coolant intrusion. Certain 2.0L and 3.5L EcoBoost engines even suffered catastrophic failures attributed to head gasket issues or warped components. Even the naturally aspirated V6 engines were not entirely immune to trouble, notably experiencing issues like leaking water pumps that were inconveniently positioned deep inside the engine, necessitating extensive and costly labor to access and repair.

Perhaps one of the most alarming and widely reported problems was the issue of exhaust fume intrusion into the cabin. This was a concern so pervasive it not only sparked multiple class-action lawsuits but also triggered a formal investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Numerous owners of 2011–2017 Explorers described a distinct and often strong odor of exhaust fumes permeating the interior, particularly noticeable under heavy acceleration. This was not merely an irritating nuisance; it presented a potential health hazard to vehicle occupants. Beyond these severe issues, electrical system malfunctions added another layer of frustration. Problems with the MyFord Touch infotainment system, intermittent power loss to crucial vehicle systems, faulty sensors, and persistent door latch issues all contributed to this Explorer’s consistently poor reliability rankings. The cumulative cost of ownership for these vehicles could escalate with alarming speed, often well before they reached the 100,000-mile mark.

While the Ford Explorer of this generation offered a spacious and comfortable interior when new, its long-term track record reveals a vehicle fundamentally plagued by a combination of mechanical and design failures. For consumers who reasonably expect a full-size SUV to provide reliable service for a decade or more, this particular iteration of the Explorer stands out as one of the most regrettable options available on the market. Its history serves as a cautionary tale for those prioritizing lasting dependability in a substantial family vehicle.

Car Model Information: 2021 Ford Explorer XLT
Name: Ford Explorer
Caption: Sixth-generation Ford Explorer
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Production: 1990–present
ModelYears: 1991–present
Class: unbulleted list
Chassis: unbulleted list
Predecessor: Ford Bronco II
Successor: Ford Territory (Australia)
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles in need of updating
Summary: The Ford Explorer is a range of SUVs manufactured by the Ford Motor Company since the 1991 model year. The first five-door SUV produced by Ford, the Explorer, was introduced as a replacement for the three-door Bronco II. As with the Ford Ranger, the model line derives its name from a trim package previously offered on Ford F-Series pickup trucks. As of 2020, the Explorer became the best-selling SUV in the American market. Currently in its sixth generation, the Explorer has featured a five-door wagon body style since its 1991 introduction. During the first two generations, the model line included a three-door wagon (directly replacing the Bronco II). The Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a crew-cab mid-size pickup derived from the second-generation Explorer. The fifth and sixth generations of the Explorer have been produced as the Ford Police Interceptor Utility (replacing both the Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor and the Ford Police Interceptor Sedan). The Explorer is slotted between the Ford Edge and Ford Expedition within North America’s current Ford SUV range. The model line has undergone rebadging several times, with Mazda, Mercury, and Lincoln each selling derivative variants. Currently, Lincoln markets a luxury version of the Explorer as the Lincoln Aviator. For the North American market, the first four generations of the Explorer were produced by Ford at its Louisville Assembly Plant (Louisville, Kentucky) and its now-closed St. Louis Assembly Plant (Hazelwood, Missouri). Ford currently assembles the Explorer alongside the Lincoln Aviator and the Police Interceptor Utility at its Chicago Assembly Plant (Chicago, Illinois).

Get more information about: Ford Explorer

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Brand: Ford Model: Explorer
Price: $23,331 Mileage: 60,880 mi.

3. **Chevrolet Equinox (2010–2017)**The Chevrolet Equinox, specifically models manufactured between 2010 and 2017, initially presented a highly attractive package. It promised a stylish aesthetic, commendable fuel economy, and a comfortable ride within the competitive compact SUV segment. However, for a significant portion of its owners, the reality of living with this Equinox generation proved to be a daunting challenge, riddled with costly engine problems, persistent transmission troubles, and premature component failures. These issues collectively eroded owner satisfaction and severely undermined long-term confidence in the vehicle.

The most prominent and concerning reliability issue stemmed directly from the 2.4-liter Ecotec four-cylinder engine, which served as the predominant powerplant during these critical years. This engine gained an infamous reputation for its excessive oil consumption, often reaching a point where many owners reported their vehicles running critically low on oil, or even dry, between regular service intervals and without any prior warning. This severe oil depletion frequently led to irreversible engine damage, manifesting as worn piston rings, scoring within the cylinder walls, and in a significant number of documented cases, the necessity for a complete engine replacement. General Motors eventually responded to the widespread volume of complaints by issuing technical service bulletins and extending warranties, but for thousands of affected owners, the extensive and expensive damage had already occurred.

The engine’s troubles did not end there. The timing chain system within these Ecotec engines also emerged as a recognized weak point, with numerous instances of premature failure causing catastrophic internal engine damage. Compounding these issues were fragile PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) systems and poorly sealed intake manifolds, all of which pointed towards an engine design where cost-cutting measures may have been prioritized over long-term durability and robust engineering. While the six-speed automatic transmission was not as notorious as the engine, it too had its own set of significant problems. These included harsh shifting characteristics, premature internal wear, and failures of the torque converter. Many owners were confronted with major transmission repairs around the 80,000 to 100,000-mile mark—a mileage range where most vehicle owners would reasonably expect their drivetrain components to be operating without serious issues.

Beyond the powertrain, electrical gremlins were a recurring and frustrating theme in this Equinox generation. Common reports included failing infotainment systems, intermittent losses of power steering functionality, malfunctioning HVAC controls, and a bewildering array of dashboard warning lights that would illuminate seemingly without cause. The interior build quality also left much to be desired; cheaper plastics had a tendency to degrade rapidly, door handles were known to crack prematurely, and seat upholstery often exhibited signs of accelerated wear, making the cabin feel older than its actual years. These issues were not isolated incidents but rather consistent patterns of failure that collectively diminished the vehicle’s overall quality and reliability.

What makes the 2010–2017 Equinox particularly frustrating for consumers is its deceptive initial appeal. It consistently sold well and appeared to be a safe, economically sound option for many. However, countless first-time SUV buyers and budget-conscious families discovered, often through expensive and inconvenient experiences, that the Equinox of this era was simply not a reliable long-term investment. Its pervasive repair history is heavily stacked against it, making it a model that is unequivocally best avoided for anyone seeking an SUV that promises low maintenance costs and dependable peace of mind for many years to come.

Car Model Information: 2022 Chevrolet Equinox 1LT
Name: Chevrolet Equinox
Manufacturer: General Motors
Aka: ubl
Production: 2004–present
ModelYears: 2005–present
Class: Mid-size crossover SUV
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Layout: Transverse engine,Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: ubl
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Chevrolet Equinox is a crossover SUV introduced by Chevrolet in 2004 for the 2005 model year. It was intended to replace the North American Chevrolet Tracker and Chevrolet S-10 Blazer. The third-generation Equinox also replaced the first-generation Chevrolet Captiva. An all-electric battery-powered (BEV) version called the Equinox EV was introduced in 2022 with sales starting in 2023 for the 2024 model year. It adopts a separate design and underpinnings from the internal combustion engine powered Equinox.

Get more information about: Chevrolet Equinox

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Brand: Chevrolet Model: Equinox
Price: $20,997 Mileage: 42,754 mi.

4. **Nissan Pathfinder (2013–2020)**The 2013–2020 Nissan Pathfinder was introduced with the ambitious goal of charting a new course for Nissan’s midsize SUV offering. The design brief called for a vehicle that delivered enhanced crossover comfort, a more refined ride, and improved fuel economy, moving away from its more rugged predecessors. While it largely succeeded in presenting a modern and spacious exterior, the Pathfinder quickly developed an unenviable reputation for serious reliability problems, with its drivetrain emerging as the most significant area of concern. What could have been a versatile and reliable family vehicle frequently devolved into a repair-prone headache for its owners.

At the very core of the Pathfinder’s reliability issues lay Nissan’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), a unit primarily manufactured by JATCO. This transmission, which was theoretically designed to provide ultra-smooth acceleration and contribute to better fuel efficiency, ultimately became one of the model’s most glaring and widely criticized failures. Owners across the board reported a litany of problems, including jarring jerking, unsettling slipping, noticeable hesitation, loud whining noises, and in numerous severe instances, complete transmission failure. These critical breakdowns often occurred well before the vehicle had even accumulated 100,000 miles. Furthermore, many drivers expressed legitimate safety concerns due to unexpected lag or surging behavior, particularly when accelerating from a standstill or attempting to merge onto highways, situations where predictable power delivery is paramount. Nissan attempted to mitigate these widespread problems through multiple service bulletins and extended warranties, but even replaced CVTs often succumbed to failure again within relatively short intervals, indicating a fundamental design flaw.

The 3.5-liter V6 engine, while generally considered a decent performer in isolation, did not escape criticism entirely when paired with this problematic drivetrain. It was frequently hampered by poor tuning or became linked to various drivetrain diagnostic codes that would trigger the vehicle’s “limp mode,” or cause erratic operational behavior. Beyond these primary powertrain concerns, owners also reported cooling system problems, oil leaks, and premature wear on engine mounts, all contributing to elevated long-term ownership costs. These issues highlighted a broader lack of integration and durability within the Pathfinder’s mechanical systems, further diminishing confidence in its overall reliability.

Beyond the pervasive powertrain problems, the Pathfinder also suffered from a range of electrical gremlins and general build quality deficiencies. Common complaints included malfunctioning backup cameras, touchscreens that would frequently freeze or fail completely, and persistent issues with the keyless entry system. Inside the cabin, signs of premature wear were evident in the seat leather, rattling trim pieces became commonplace, and the HVAC systems often exhibited malfunctions. Furthermore, the third-row seating, while present, was often criticized for its subpar comfort, and the sliding second-row seats were known to develop mechanical issues or fail to lock securely in place, adding to the daily frustrations of owners.

This SUV’s pronounced downfall is particularly significant because it was primarily marketed towards families—a demographic that inherently prioritizes safety and unwavering reliability above almost all other features. Instead, many owners found themselves making repeated, often annual, trips to dealerships for software updates, intricate transmission diagnostics, or significant, early major repairs. While later models reportedly saw slight improvements, the severe damage to the Pathfinder’s reputation was already done. Today, this generation frequently appears on “avoid” lists for used SUVs and suffers from markedly poor resale value, a direct consequence of its extensive track record of transmission and quality-control issues. In a market segment brimming with dependable competitors, the 2013–2020 Nissan Pathfinder unfortunately stands out for all the wrong reasons.

Car Model Information: 2023 Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek 4WD
Name: Nissan Pathfinder
Caption: 2022 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum 4WD (R53, US)
Manufacturer: Nissan
Production: 1985–present
ModelYears: unbulleted list
Layout: unbulleted list
Class: unbulleted list
Chassis: unbulleted list
Predecessor: unbulleted list
Successor: unbulleted list
Categories: 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles
Summary: The Nissan Pathfinder is a range of sport utility vehicles manufactured by Nissan since 1985. Until the third-generation model, the Pathfinder is based on Nissan’s compact pickup truck platform which it shares with the Navara/Frontier. The Pathfinder was marketed as the Nissan Terrano (Japanese: 日産・テラノ, Hepburn: Nissan Terano) outside North America. Beginning in 2004, the vehicles were marketed globally as the Pathfinder. In 2012, the R52 series Pathfinder was released as a three-row crossover SUV based on the unibody Nissan D platform, moving away from the body-on-frame chassis format. The role of a mid-size body-on-frame SUV in Nissan’s global lineup was passed to the Terra/X-Terra, which was released in 2018 and based on the D23 series Navara.

Get more information about: Nissan Pathfinder

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Brand: Nissan Model: Pathfinder
Price: $31,943 Mileage: 53,763 mi.

5. **Dodge Journey (2009–2020)**The Dodge Journey stands as a stark testament to how a vehicle can remain on the market for an entire decade, enticing buyers with its price point and styling, despite a foundational lack of reliability. Positioned as an accessible, budget-friendly family SUV, it appeared promising with its optional third-row seating and available all-wheel-drive. However, beneath this superficially appealing exterior lay a vehicle that was significantly outdated, both mechanically and technologically, even by the standards of its debut era. Its tenure was largely defined by a reputation for poor reliability, substandard build quality, and an alarming frequency of mechanical failures that plagued owners.

The Journey’s most widely recognized and frustrating problem resided within its base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. This powerplant was consistently found to be chronically underpowered and perpetually overworked, a combination that frequently led to premature wear and persistent overheating issues. Compounding this struggle was its pairing with an equally outdated 4-speed automatic transmission. This drivetrain configuration resulted in a sluggish and inefficient driving experience and, critically, was notorious for premature failure, leaving many owners facing significant repair bills far too early in the vehicle’s life cycle. Even the more robust 3.6-liter V6 variants, while offering slightly more power, were not immune to trouble, especially when mated to the problematic 6-speed automatic transmission, which suffered from jerky shifting, rough engagement, and mechanical breakdowns often well before the 100,000-mile mark.

Beyond the core powertrain woes, the Journey was notorious for rampant engine cooling issues. Owners frequently reported serious problems such as blown head gaskets, persistent radiator leaks, and thermostat failures, sometimes occurring incredibly early in the vehicle’s lifespan, even before reaching 60,000 miles. The electrical systems presented another significant source of frustration, proving to be highly problematic. Faulty TIPMs (Totally Integrated Power Modules) were a common culprit, causing random system failures across the vehicle, while glitchy keyless entry systems and freezing infotainment units added to the daily annoyances. Adding insult to injury, dashboard warning lights, including those for ABS and traction control, would frequently illuminate without any clear underlying reason, often remaining unresolved despite numerous costly trips to dealerships.

The interior quality of the Dodge Journey was another significant drawback. It was widely criticized for its reliance on cheap plastics that degraded rapidly, leading to squeaky panels and seats that showed signs of premature wear, making the cabin feel much older than its actual years. Even fundamental features that drivers rely on daily, such as power windows and door locks, were known to fail on vehicles with relatively low mileage, further eroding owner confidence. The continued presence of the Journey in the used car market, largely due to aggressive discounts during its new car sales and its widespread use in rental fleets, means that many unsuspecting buyers continue to be drawn to what appears to be a bargain. However, as countless long-term owners discovered, the Journey is anything but, standing as one of the most failure-prone SUVs of the modern era.

Car Model Information: 2016 Dodge Journey SE
Name: Dodge Journey
Caption: 2012 Dodge Journey
Manufacturer: Dodge
Aka: Fiat Freemont,Dodge JC (Japan),Dodge JCUV (China)
Production: 2008–2020
ModelYears: 2009–2020,2011–2015 (Freemont)
Assembly: Toluca, Mexico
Designer: Ryan Nagode
Class: Mid-size crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Platform: Mitsubishi GS platform
Related: Chrysler 200,Chrysler Sebring,Dodge Avenger
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Engine: ubl
Transmission: Ultradrive#40TES/41TES
Wheelbase: 2890 mm
Abbr: on
Order: flip
Length: 192.4 in
Width: 72.2 in
Height: 66.6 in
Weight: 3818 lb
Predecessor: Fiat Ulysse,Fiat Croma
Successor: Dodge Journey (2021)
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with dead external links, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Dodge Journey is a mid-size crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ Dodge brand for model years 2009 to 2020 over a single generation, with a facelift for the 2011 model year. The Journey was styled by Ryan Nagode, and was marketed globally in both left- and right-hand drive, including as the Fiat Freemont. Internally identified as the JC49, the Journey shares FCA’s global D-segment platform with the Dodge Avenger and a nearly identical wheelbase to the outgoing short-wheelbase (SWB) Dodge Caravan. Having debuted at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Journey subsequently appeared at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. All models were manufactured in Mexico at FCA’s Toluca Assembly facility, with just over 1.1 million manufactured before production ended in 2020.

Get more information about: Dodge Journey

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Brand: Dodge Model: Journey
Price: $7,744 Mileage: 90,187 mi.

6. **Land Rover Range Rover**The allure of the Land Rover Range Rover is undeniable, with its commanding presence and luxurious pedigree. Yet, the price tag alone, often starting over $109,000 brand new according to Kelley Blue Book, belies a challenging ownership experience for many. As Melanie Musson, an auto industry expert with AutoInsurance.org, keenly observed, “it costs a lot of money to buy new, but it loses value quickly because of how problematic ownership can become.” This rapid depreciation is a direct consequence of the widespread reliability issues that unfortunately plague these otherwise aspirational vehicles.

Among the most frequently reported and frustrating issues are those tied to the vehicle’s sophisticated, yet often temperamental, technology. The infotainment system, a central feature of any modern luxury vehicle, often malfunctions, leading to a host of inconveniences for drivers and passengers. Beyond the cabin tech, owners routinely encounter more critical electrical issues that can affect various vital components, often without warning. Adding to this list of woes are air suspension failures, a particular concern given the Range Rover’s reputation for a refined ride and off-road capability, as these failures can severely impact both comfort and safety, leading to expensive repairs.

The heart of any vehicle is its engine, and here too, the Range Rover can present significant challenges. Musson further elaborated on the severity of these potential issues, stating that “Engine problems can result in repairs that take weeks to restore the vehicle’s operational status.” Such protracted repair times not only incur substantial costs but also severely disrupt owners’ daily lives, highlighting that the beauty and luxury of a Range Rover can come with a hidden, and often hefty, price tag in terms of long-term reliability and peace of mind.

Car Model Information: 2024 Ford F-150 XLT
Caption: 2022 Range Rover SE P440e (L460, fifth generation, United Kingdom)
Aka: unbulleted list
Name: Range Rover
Manufacturer: unbulleted list
Production: 1969–present
Assembly: unbulleted list
Class: unbulleted list
Layout: Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Sp: uk
Categories: 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars
Summary: The Land Rover Range Rover, generally shortened to Range Rover, is a 4WD luxury mid to full size crossover marque and sub-brand of Jaguar Land Rover, owned by India-based Tata Motors. The Range Rover line was launched in 1970 by British Leyland and since 2022 is in its fifth generation. Additional models have been launched under the Range Rover name, including the Range Rover Sport, Range Rover Evoque, and Range Rover Velar.

Get more information about: Range Rover

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Brand: Land Rover Model: Range Rover
Price: $41,604 Mileage: 9,645 mi.

7. **Volkswagen Taos**The Volkswagen Taos, a relatively newer entry into the compact SUV market, has unfortunately quickly earned a reputation for significant reliability concerns, particularly centered around its engine. These engine issues are not only frequent but also notoriously expensive to diagnose and repair, quickly eroding the perceived value of this otherwise attractive vehicle. Reviewers on Edmunds have consistently pointed out that maintenance problems are frequent, coupled with unreliable electronics, and some owners have been faced with costly repairs surprisingly early in their ownership journey, well before a new vehicle should be experiencing such problems.

One of the most critical and potentially dangerous issues identified with the Taos involves its fuel system. Melanie Musson highlighted a specific flaw, noting that “Fuel system problems can cause drivers to run out of gas because the gauges malfunction, preventing them from accurately indicating the fuel level.” This particular malfunction is not just an inconvenience; it represents a serious safety concern, as it can leave drivers unexpectedly stranded or dangerously low on fuel without adequate warning, undermining the fundamental trust a driver places in their vehicle’s instrumentation.

Furthermore, the Taos has been singled out for an issue with its braking system, adding another layer of expense and concern for owners. Musson also stated that “The brakes often wear out quickly.” This premature wear necessitates frequent brake service, a common but costly maintenance item that significantly contributes to the overall expense of owning a Taos. For a vehicle that promises modern German engineering and efficiency, these recurring issues with essential systems like the engine, fuel gauge, and brakes represent significant drawbacks that consumers should carefully consider before purchasing.

Car Model Information: 2023 Volkswagen Taos 1.5T S
Name: Volkswagen Taos/Tharu
Manufacturer: Volkswagen
Aka: Volkswagen Tharu
Production: ubl
Assembly: ubl
Designer: Klaus Zyciora
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive,Front-engine, all-wheel-drive
Platform: Volkswagen Group MQB A1
Related: SEAT Ateca,Škoda Karoq,Jetta VS5
Engine: Petrol engine,Turbocharger,1.4 L TSI 150 I4,1.5 L TSI 160 I4,Multi-point fuel injection,2.0 L TSI 190 I4
Transmission: Manual transmission
Battery: 44.1 kWh (e-Tharu)
ElectricRange: convert
Wheelbase: 105.9 in
Abbr: on
Order: 4453 mm
Length: 175.8 in
Width: 1841 mm
Height: convert
ModelYears: 2022–present
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, Articles with short description, CS1 Brazilian Portuguese-language sources (pt-br), CS1 Mexican Spanish-language sources (es-mx), CS1 Portuguese-language sources (pt)
Summary: The Volkswagen Taos is a compact crossover SUV marketed by Volkswagen. It was first released in October 2018 as the Volkswagen Tharu in China, while the Taos was released in October 2020 as a restyled version of the Tharu for the North American, South American, and Russian markets. In the brand’s lineup, the vehicle is positioned below the Tiguan, and in South America and China above the T-Cross. It is not marketed in core European market. The Taos is named after Taos, New Mexico. The Tharu name is derived after the eponymous Tharu people, an ethnic group indigenous to Nepal and Northern India.

Get more information about: Volkswagen Taos

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Brand: Volkswagen Model: Taos
Price: $20,475 Mileage: 18,047 mi.

8. **Jeep Grand Cherokee**The Jeep Grand Cherokee, a model celebrated for its formidable off-road capabilities and iconic American styling, paradoxically struggles when it comes to overall reliability. Despite its rugged image and adventurous spirit, the vehicle, and indeed the Jeep brand as a whole, carries a considerable reputation for breakdowns. Melanie Musson straightforwardly commented, “Jeep, as a whole, has a reputation for breaking down.” This candid assessment reflects a broader pattern of reliability concerns that extend across the manufacturer’s lineup, with the Grand Cherokee being no exception.

While specific breakdown issues may vary across different model years of the Grand Cherokee, a consistent thread of recurring problems significantly impacts its long-term dependability. These issues, though perhaps shifting in nature from one generation to the next, remain consistently frustrating for owners, who find themselves frequently grappling with unexpected repairs. The problem is not confined to older models alone; even newer iterations of the Grand Cherokee exhibit these concerning trends, challenging the expectation of modern reliability from a recently manufactured vehicle.

Perhaps one of the most alarming indicators of the Grand Cherokee’s reliability struggles is its history of recalls. Ruth Calkins, general manager and car expert at Findbyplate, pointed out a severe concern, noting, “There is also a serious concern with the fact that the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee has been recalled 11 times by NHTSA, over various safety concerns including issues with airbags, electrical systems, suspension and steering.” Such a high number of recalls for a current model year is exceptionally rare and warrants serious scrutiny, signaling deep-seated issues that affect the vehicle’s core design and manufacturing.

These numerous recalls are not merely administrative procedures; they directly “point to potential gaps in the design or manufacturing of this vehicle, that may compromise its reliability as well as safety,” as Calkins further explained. This pattern of significant safety and operational concerns, especially in a vehicle that is often relied upon for family transportation and adventurous pursuits, serves as a powerful cautionary tale. It underscores that while the Grand Cherokee might be a capable off-roader, its foundational reliability and long-term ownership experience often fall short of consumer expectations, making it a potentially problematic choice for those prioritizing dependability.

In today’s SUV-dominated automotive landscape, buyers stand at a crucial crossroads: the choice between investing in a vehicle meticulously engineered for the long haul or gambling on one that might quickly transform into a relentless money pit. This comprehensive guide has meticulously illuminated both ends of the reliability spectrum, offering you the essential insights needed to make an informed, confident decision. Because when the stakes are high, and your long-term ownership experience hangs in the balance, it becomes abundantly clear that not all SUVs are created equal.

On one side, we have celebrated mechanical excellence and enduring design embodied by SUVs such as the Toyota Land Cruiser, Honda CR-V, Lexus GX, Toyota 4Runner, and Subaru Forester. These stalwarts have not simply earned their reputations through marketing; they have forged them in the crucible of real-world performance, enduring years of rigorous wear, accumulating high mileage, navigating harsh environments, and withstanding the true test of everyday abuse. Their success lies in a simple, yet profoundly effective, formula: robust, proven engines, highly reliable transmissions, judiciously implemented technology, and the invaluable support of vibrant, dedicated owner communities. The collective result is a fleet of SUVs that continue to run strong, long after many competitors have retired, delivering unparalleled peace of mind, excellent resale value, and remarkably lower lifetime ownership costs.

Conversely, we’ve meticulously examined the other half of this compelling narrative—SUVs like the Jeep Cherokee, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Equinox, Nissan Pathfinder, and Dodge Journey. Each of these models initially arrived with considerable promise and potential, but ultimately stumbled and fell short, victims of critical design flaws, engineering decisions that felt rushed, or a fundamental lack of rigorous long-term testing. Common threads weaving through their problematic histories include persistently weak transmissions, engines that were either underbuilt or prone to excessive wear, an overabundance of complex electronic systems that proved unreliable, and noticeable shortcuts taken in both the quality of materials and overall durability. These systemic failures have, unfortunately, burdened countless owners with a relentless cycle of frequent and often expensive repairs, out-of-warranty fixes that drain wallets, and, in far too many instances, legitimate safety concerns. While many of these vehicles were sold in impressive numbers, their collective track records of unreliability are impossible to ignore, a reality grimly reflected in their consistently poor resale values.

Car Model Information: 2024 Ford F-150 XLT
Name: Jeep Grand Cherokee
Manufacturer: Jeep
Production: 1992–present
ModelYears: 1993–present
Class: unbulleted list
BodyStyle: sport utility vehicle
Layout: unbulleted list
Chassis: Vehicle_frame#Uniframe
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a range of mid-sized sport utility vehicles produced by American manufacturer Jeep. At its introduction, while most SUVs were still manufactured with body-on-frame construction, the Grand Cherokee has used a unibody chassis from the start.

Get more information about: Jeep Grand Cherokee

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Jeep Model: Grand Cherokee
Price: $41,604 Mileage: 9,645 mi.

The overarching lesson emanating from this deep dive is unequivocally clear: when you are in the market for an SUV—especially if your intention is to cherish and keep it well beyond the typical warranty period—the paramount importance of reliability must weigh just as heavily, if not more so, than considerations of flashy features, raw horsepower, or mere brand prestige. A sleek, stylish design or an attractively low sticker price becomes utterly meaningless if you find yourself perpetually stranded on the side of the road or hemorrhaging money through an unending stream of repair bills. Therefore, choose with astute wisdom and careful consideration. An SUV possesses the potential to be a cherished, lifelong companion, faithfully serving you through thick and thin, or it can tragically devolve into a constant, vexing burden. The profound difference between these two vastly divergent paths lies deeply embedded within its engineering DNA, and as our exploration has vividly demonstrated, some SUVs are unequivocally built to conquer the long road ahead, while others were, regrettably, never truly ready for the journey.