With Kelley Blue Book (KBB) citing the average new car price at around $48,000, low long-term ownership costs are more important than ever and nothing impacts long-term ownership costs more than a vehicle’s reliability.
If you’re in the market for a new car, you should plan to spend a decent amount of money up front, but spend wisely by investing in one that won’t drain your emergency fund as you drive.
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Be leery of any nameplate that’s known for regular visits to the mechanic’s shop, frequent recalls or otherwise letting their owners down, leaving them stranded and making them reach for their wallets more than they should. This is especially true for the patriotic purchasers who limit themselves only to U.S.-based automakers. Keep reading to learn about the least reliable American car brands of 2025.
Wondering which are the overall least reliable car brands? Check these out.
The Studies Behind the Rankings
The independent nonprofit Consumer Reports gathered and analyzed data on more than 300,000 vehicles to create its 2025 vehicle reliability rankings. Japan dominates the enviable side of the list, with Subaru, Lexus, Toyota, Honda and Acura claiming the top five spots. Unfortunately for those looking to buy American, domestic brands occupy five of the bottom six.
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CarEdge complemented the Consumer Reports study with CarEdge Insights data to include the average sale price for each brand and to add its own reliability ratings, which, like those from Consumer Reports, range from 1 to 100, with higher being better.
Interestingly, a pair of EV-only automakers bookend the five-place list, which also includes a pair of storied GM brands.
Rivian
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Consumer Reports Reliability Rating: 14
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CarEdge Reliability Rating: 18
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CarEdge Average Price: $85,000
Cadillac
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Consumer Reports Reliability Rating: 27
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CarEdge Reliability Rating: 27
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CarEdge Average Price: $72,586
GMC
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Consumer Reports Reliability Rating: 33
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CarEdge Reliability Rating: 33
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CarEdge Average Price: $67,516
Jeep
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Consumer Reports Reliability Rating: 33
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CarEdge Reliability Rating: 33
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CarEdge Average Price: $50,001
Tesla
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Consumer Reports Reliability Rating: 36
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CarEdge Reliability Rating: 36
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CarEdge Average Price: $41,000
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 American Car Brands Named the Least Reliable of 2025
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