Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesConsumer Reports does not publish an official ranking called the “15 Most Potentially Unreliable SUVs.” The list below is an editorial compilation of SUVs that CR currently identifies as having below-average, well-below-average, or otherwise weaker predicted reliability for the 2026 model year and recent model years.
That distinction matters. A low predicted-reliability rating does not mean every example will break down, nor does it make a specific SUV an automatic purchase mistake. CR’s ratings estimate the likelihood of reported problems compared with other vehicles, using owner surveys and severity-weighted trouble data.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The 15 SUVs Consumer Reports currently flags
The models are grouped by recurring problem patterns rather than ranked from worst to best. Consumer Reports does not publicly provide a directly comparable 1-to-100 score for every SUV in this group.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
| SUV | What Consumer Reports indicates | Why shoppers should pay attention |
|---|---|---|
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | Less reliable than the average new car; a published midsize-SUV reliability score is 29/100. | Its rating is far below the category average, making it one of the clearest warning signs in this group. |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe | Historically well below average. | The plug-in-hybrid system has performed worse than the gasoline version. Jeep discontinued the 4xe for 2026, so this is relevant mainly to recent used and leftover inventory. |
| Mazda CX-70 | The 2026 gasoline model is expected to be less reliable than average; a published score is 32/100. | It uses a new rear-wheel-drive-based platform, engine, and transmission, all of which introduce first-generation risk. |
| Mazda CX-70 Plug-in Hybrid | Below average, with continued concerns involving the EV battery and electric motor. | It combines Mazda’s new platform with the company’s early PHEV hardware. |
| Mazda CX-90 | The 2026 gasoline model is expected to be less reliable than average. | It shares the new platform, engine family, and transmission architecture associated with the CX-70. |
| Mazda CX-90 Plug-in Hybrid | Expected to be much less reliable than average. | CR tracks possible trouble involving the electric motor, EV battery, charging system, engine, transmission, and electronics. |
| Chevrolet Equinox | The 2026 model is expected to be much less reliable than the average new car. | The prediction is based on early data from the redesigned model, so buyers are taking on first-year redesign risk. |
| GMC Terrain | Identified alongside the redesigned Equinox as remaining unreliable. | The Terrain shares much of its engineering with the Equinox and is also relatively new in its current form. |
| GMC Acadia | The 2026 model is expected to be much less reliable than average. | It was recently redesigned, and CR’s prediction draws on early model-year data and GMC’s brand-level reliability performance. |
| Buick Enclave | Below-average predicted reliability. | The Enclave was redesigned for 2024, leaving less long-term owner history than an established design. |
| Chevrolet Traverse | Below-average predicted reliability. | Like the Enclave, it received a major redesign for 2024 and has limited history for judging durability. |
| Cadillac Lyriq | The 2026 model is expected to be less reliable than average. | It uses GM’s Ultium EV architecture, which appears in several vehicles with below-average or well-below-average reliability results. |
| Cadillac Optiq | Below-average predicted reliability. | As a newer model, its estimate is especially exposed to first-year software, electrical, and component problems. |
| Chevrolet Blazer EV | Below average or well below average; CR says it remained unreliable in its second model year. | The problems are not limited to the launch year, which makes the result more significant than a single early survey. |
| Honda Prologue | Below-average predicted reliability. | Although it carries a Honda badge, it shares GM’s Ultium-based EV architecture with several other models that have struggled in CR’s data. |
What the ratings actually measure
Consumer Reports surveys vehicle owners about problems experienced during the previous 12 months. Its questionnaire can cover as many as 20 trouble areas, including:
#1 Best Overall
- CEL Doctor: The ANCEL AD310 is one of the best-selling OBD II scanners on the market and is recommended by Scotty Kilmer, a YouTuber and auto mechanic. It can easily determine the cause of the check engine light coming on. After repairing the vehicle's problems, it can quickly read and clear diagnostic trouble codes of emission system, read live data & hard memory data, view freeze frame, I/M monitor readiness and collect vehicle information
- Sturdy and Compact: Equipped with a 2.5 foot cable made of very thick, flexible insulation. It is important to have a sturdy scanner as it can easily fall to the ground when working in a car. The AD310 OBD2 scanner is a well-constructed mechanic tool with a sleek design. It weighs 12 ounces and measures 8.9 x 6.9 x 1.4 inches. Thanks to its compact design and light weight, transporting the device is not a problem. The buttons are clearly labelled and the screen is large and displays results clearly
- Accurate Fast and Easy to Use: The AD310 scanner can help you or your mechanic understand if your car is in good condition, provides exceptionally accurate and fast results, reads and clears engine trouble emission codes in seconds after you fixed the problem. This device will let you know immediately and fix the problem right away without any car knowledge. No need for batteries or a charger, get power directly from the OBDII Data Link Connector in your vehicle
- OBDII Protocols and Car Compatibility: Many cheap scan tools do not really support all OBD2 protocols. AD310 scanner as it can support all OBDII protocols such as KWP2000, J1850 VPW, ISO9141, J1850 PWM and CAN. This device also has extensive vehicle compatibility with 1996 US-based, 2000 EU-based and Asian cars, light trucks, SUVs, as well as newer OBD2 and CAN vehicles both domestic and foreign. Pls confirm with our customer service whether it is compatible with your vehicle before purchasing
- Home Necessity and Worthy to Own: This is an excellent code reader to travel or home with as it weighs less and it is compact in design. You can easily slide it in your backpack as you head to the garage, or put it on the dashboard, this will be a great fit for you. The AD310 is not only portable, but also accurate and fast in performance. Moreover, it covers various car brands and is suitable for people who just need a code reader to check their car
- Engine and transmission problems
- Electric motors, EV batteries, and charging systems
- Brakes and climate-control systems
- Electrical accessories and in-car electronics
- Body hardware, paint, and trim
- Leaks and other miscellaneous faults
CR does not treat every complaint as equally serious. A failed engine, defective high-voltage battery, or transmission problem carries more weight than a minor infotainment glitch. The predicted-reliability score is presented on a 1-to-100 scale, with higher numbers indicating a lower expected problem rate.
The number of areas also varies by powertrain. CR evaluates up to 12 areas for EVs, 19 for hybrids, and 20 for plug-in hybrids and conventional vehicles. A plug-in hybrid’s score should therefore not be read as a simple count of mechanical breakdowns.
Why so many newer SUVs appear on the list
First-year and major-redesign risk
New vehicles often introduce unfamiliar engines, transmissions, software, electronics, and manufacturing processes at the same time. Consumer Reports generally advises caution when buying a model that has just been redesigned or launched.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Rank #2
- Understand Your Check Engine Light – The ANCEL AD410 OBD2 scanner helps everyday drivers quickly read and clear engine-related fault codes, view code definitions, and understand why the check engine light is on before visiting a repair shop. With 42,000+ built-in DTC lookups, this car code reader helps reduce guesswork and makes basic vehicle diagnostics easier for beginners and DIY users
- Full OBD2 Diagnostics Made Simple – More than a basic engine code reader, this OBD2 scanner diagnostic tool supports key OBDII functions including reading/clearing codes, live data, freeze frame, I/M readiness, O2 sensor test, EVAP test, vehicle information, and MIL status. It helps you check your car’s condition, verify repairs after the issue is fixed, and communicate with mechanics more confidently
- Live Date & Real-time Vehicle Insights – View real-time engine data such as RPM, coolant temperature, fuel trim, oxygen sensor readings, and other available OBD2 parameters directly on the screen. These live data readings help you better understand how your vehicle is running, spot abnormal patterns, and make more informed repair decisions instead of relying only on a warning light
- Smog Check Readiness At A Glance – Use the I/M readiness function before a smog check or emissions inspection to see whether your vehicle’s monitors are ready. This OBD2 code scanner helps you confirm if recent repairs have brought the system back to a ready state, reducing the chance of failed inspections, retests, wasted trips, and unnecessary inspection fees
- Works With Most OBD2 Vehicles – Compatible with most 1996 and newer U.S.-based OBD2 cars, SUVs, and light trucks, as well as many 2000 and newer EU/Asian OBD2 vehicles. Supports major OBDII protocols including CAN, ISO9141, KWP2000, J1850 VPW, and J1850 PWM. This automotive diagnostic scanner is designed for wide vehicle coverage; please check compatibility with your vehicle before purchase
That pattern affects the Chevrolet Equinox, GMC Terrain, and GMC Acadia. The Buick Enclave and Chevrolet Traverse were also redesigned for 2024. The Cadillac Optiq and Honda Prologue are newer entries, so their predictions have less mature model-specific history behind them.
New Mazda hardware
The CX-70 and CX-90 use Mazda’s new rear-wheel-drive-based platform and new inline-six engine and transmission combinations. Their plug-in-hybrid versions add Mazda’s first-generation PHEV system.
CR has linked the weaker results to problems involving the new platform, powertrain, EV battery, electric motor, charging system, and vehicle electronics. The gasoline models are not automatically trouble-free simply because they have fewer electrified components.
Rank #3
- 【A MUST-HAVE SCANNER TOOL FOR DIYERS】 - VDIAGTOOL VD10 car code reader is an incredibly useful, handheld obd2 scanner for each car owner or hobbyist, even for those with little to no experience when it comes to vehicle mechanics! Similar to a fixd car diagnostic tool, using this car diagnostic scanner is extremely easy. All you have to do is attach it to your car OBDII port and you can diagnose car problems in seconds! Read Codes (DTCs); Clear Codes; Live Data; View Freeze Frame; I/M Readiness; Vehicle Information.
- 【KEEP ENGINE IN GOOD STATUS】 - VDIAGTOOL check engine code reader brings a fast access to scan, read the car fault code, show its definition on the screen instantly, troubleshooting to find the root causes of problems, erase the engine fault code and turn off the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Light). Similar to a fixd car diagnostic tool, this car code reader helps ensure your engine stays in top condition.
- 【READ/CLEAR CODES & DTC LOOKUP】- No search online & saving your time, this vehicle car code reader retrieves generic (P0, P2, P3, and U0), manufacturer specific (P1, P3, and U1) codes, pending codes and displays DTC definitions based on the built-in database(more than 3000 codes) on the TFT screen, find out the root causes and clear the codes after fixed.
- 【ENHANCED OBD2 SCANNER WITH LIVE DATA & RETRIEVE FREEZE FRAME】 - This diagnostic scan tool for accurate diagnosis enables you to retrieve data from vehicle sensors, such as Engine RPM, Intake air temperature, Short/Long term fuel, Misfire data and etc. The freeze frame is stored in the PCM together with the diagnostic trouble code (DTC) related to the fault. Comparable to a fixd car diagnostic tool, the VD10 car code reader car scanner can be a valuable & practical diagnostic aid and also greatly help when diagnosing intermittent problems.
- 【I/M READINESS for THE S-nn-0-g CHECK】- OBDII vehicle may not pass the annual inspection unless the required monitors since reset are complete. So you should at least read the readiness monitors and make sure they are ready. This car obd2 scanner diagnostic tool is equipped with I/M readiness function to check the operations of the e-m-issi0n system on OBD2 compliant vehicles, run I/M monitor readiness test, checking if the pass vehicle s-m-0-g inspection.
Ultium-based EVs
The Lyriq, Optiq, Blazer EV, and Prologue all appear in this discussion because of their relationship to GM’s Ultium EV architecture. That does not prove that every Ultium vehicle is unreliable: CR describes the Chevrolet Equinox EV as an exception with average reliability. It does show that platform-sharing can matter when several related vehicles report similar early problems.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchPHEV complexity
A plug-in hybrid has a gasoline engine, transmission, high-voltage battery, electric motor, charging equipment, and software controlling the interaction between them. More components create more potential failure points.
CR’s data has often shown PHEV versions of the Grand Cherokee, CX-70, and CX-90 performing worse than their gasoline counterparts. A PHEV can still be an excellent fit for a particular owner, but fuel savings should be weighed against added system complexity and repair costs after the warranty expires.
Rank #4
- 【Diagnose Check Engine Light in Seconds – No Mechanic Needed】The FOXWELL NT301 OBD2 scanner instantly reads & clears engine fault codes (DTCs) with one click. Simply plug into the 16-pin DLC port, turn ignition on, and get accurate results within seconds—No prior car knowledge required. Save hundreds on dealership fees by knowing exactly what’s wrong before you visit a shop. The #1 choice car scanner for DIYers and car owners who want to take control of their vehicle’s health
- 【Clear & Reset CEL with Confidence】Unlike cheap code readers that just erase codes temporarily, NT301 works like all professional vehicle code readers: It clears the check engine light only after you’ve fixed the underlying issue. If the problem isn’t fully repaired, the fault code will reappear. So you’ll never get a false pass. Use the foxwell scanner to verify your repair work and drive with peace of mind
- 【Sm-og Check Helper – Know Your Pass/Fail Status Before the Test】With dedicated one-click I/M readiness hotkeys and a simple Red-Yellow-Green LED indicator, you’ll instantly know if your vehicle is ready for annual testing. Built-in speaker provides clear audio feedback. No guesswork—just confidence before you head to the test center. One less thing to worry about when inspection day comes
- 【Advanced OBDII Modes – O- 2 Sensor & EVAP Testing】NT301 go beyond basic code reading with enhanced OBD2 modes. Run an EVAP system check to assess fuel tank condition, and use the O- 2 sensor test to optimize air-fuel ratio, boosting fuel economy, cutting em- issions, and saving you money at the pump. The code reader for cars and trucks is like having a mini em-issions lab in your glove box
- 【Live Data Graphing – Spot Engine Issues in Real Time】View and log live sensor data in easy-to-read graphs with this OBD2 scanner diagnostic tool. Monitor ox- ygen sensors, fuel trims, coolant temperature, RPM, and more to spot suspicious values instantly. This obd scanner gives you professional-grade insight without the pro price tag—a feature you won’t find on basic $20 car code readers
One published numerical comparison
Among the midsize SUVs for which a numerical CR reliability result has been reported publicly, the figures include:
| Model | Reliability score |
|---|---|
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | 29/100 |
| Mazda CX-70 | 32/100 |
| Mazda CX-70 Plug-in Hybrid | 32/100 |
| Nissan Murano | 41/100 |
| Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport | 43/100 |
These numbers should not be used to manufacture an exact ranking of all 15 SUVs. Public CR model pages commonly show a verdict such as “less reliable” or “much less reliable” without displaying every vehicle’s full predicted-reliability score.
How to shop one of these SUVs more safely
- Check the exact model year and powertrain. Reliability can change substantially after a software update, engineering revision, or drivetrain change. Do not assume a gasoline model and its PHEV version share the same risk.
- Search the VIN for open recalls. Use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s recall lookup at NHTSA.gov/recalls. A recall is a specific safety or regulatory campaign, not the same thing as a CR reliability rating.
- Review service records on used examples. Look for repeated battery, transmission, cooling-system, electrical, and infotainment repairs—not just oil changes.
- Ask whether software updates were completed. Newer SUVs, especially EVs, can have problems corrected through dealer programming rather than replacement parts.
- Get a pre-purchase inspection. An independent technician can check leaks, suspension wear, warning codes, brake condition, charging equipment, and signs of accident or flood damage.
- Price the warranty and repair exposure. A factory warranty can reduce the financial risk of a new SUV, but buyers should understand its duration, battery coverage, exclusions, and deductible before signing.
- Compare alternatives with mature designs. A slightly older platform with several years of owner data may be a safer bet than a brand-new redesign, even if the newer vehicle has more features.
Other models worth watching
The list above is limited to 15 SUVs, but CR’s current material flags other vehicles that deserve a separate check. The Kia EV9 is expected to be less reliable than average and is identified as Kia’s least reliable model in the current survey. The Nissan Murano also posted a weak result after its 2025 redesign, which replaced the previous V6/CVT combination with a turbocharged four-cylinder and nine-speed automatic.
Best Value
- [Easy to Use—Work Out of the Box] + [FOXWELL 2026 New Version] FOXWELL NT604 Elite scan tool is the 2026 new version from FOXWELL, designed for car owners who want to figure out the cause of issues before fixing car problems by scanning common systems like ABS, SRS, engine, and transmission. The NT604 Elite obd2 scanner diagnostic tool comes with the latest software—no need to waste time downloading software first. Plug the scanner into the OBDII port with OBDII cable to start the diagnosis.
- [Affordable] + [Reliable Car Health Monitor] Will you be confused what happens when the warning light of ABS/SRS/transmission/check engine flashes? Instead of taking your cars to dealership, this FOXWELL scanner will help you do a thorough scanning and detection for your cars and pinpoint the root cause. Note：The device is a diagnostic tool, not a repair tool. To turn off a warning light, you must first physically repair the issue causing it. Only then can the scanner be used to clear the corresponding fault code.
- [5 in 1 Car Diagnostic Scanner] Compared with obd scanners (50-100), NT604 Elite code scanner not only includes their OBDII diagnosis but also serves as ABS/SRS scanner, transmission and check engine code reader. When it’s an odb2 scanner, you can use it to check if your car is ready for annual test through I/M readiness menu. In addition, live data stream, built-in DTC library, data play back and print, all these features are a big plus for it. Note: doesn't support maintenance functions like reset or relearn. For the SRS system, NT604 Elite can read and clear common fault codes not caused by a crash, but crash/collision data cannot be cleared.
- [Fantastic AUTOVIN] + [No extra software fee] Through the AUTOVIN menu, this NT604 Elite car scanner allows you to get your V-IN and vehicle info rapidly, no need to take time to find your V-IN and input one by one. What's more, the NT604 Elite ABS SRS scanner supports 60+ car brands from worldwide (America/Asia/Europe). You don’t need to pay extra software fee. AUTOVIN may not work on some older vehicles or certain vehicle brands. If AUTOVIN fails, please input the vin code manually or go to the Diagnostic Menu to select your vehicle model.
- [Solid protective case KO plastic carrying bag] + [Lifetime update] Almost all same price-level car scanner diagnostic tool only offers plastic bag to hold the scanner.However, NT604 Elite automotive scanner is equipped with solid protective case, preventing your obd2 scanner from damage. Then you don’t need to pay extra money to buy a solid toolbox.
Those examples reinforce the main lesson: reliability warnings are often tied to a particular model year, redesign, or powertrain—not necessarily to the badge on the hood.
FAQ
Are these the 15 worst SUVs according to Consumer Reports?
No. Consumer Reports does not publish an official, precise 1-to-15 ranking with this title. These are 15 SUVs that its current material flags for below-average, well-below-average, or otherwise weaker predicted reliability.
Does a low Consumer Reports reliability rating mean an SUV will break down?
No. The rating is a prediction based mainly on owner-reported problems and severity weighting. It indicates a higher expected problem rate relative to other vehicles, not a guarantee that every example will fail.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Are plug-in hybrids less reliable than gasoline SUVs?
Not always, but CR’s data has shown several PHEV versions—including the Grand Cherokee 4xe, CX-70, and CX-90—performing worse than their gasoline counterparts. The additional battery, electric motor, charging hardware, and control software add complexity.
Is the Honda Prologue a Honda-designed EV?
The Prologue carries a Honda badge but shares GM’s Ultium-based EV architecture. CR identifies it as below average for reliability, alongside several other newer Ultium-based models.
The Bottom Line
Consumer Reports’ data points to a common risk profile among these SUVs: new platforms, major redesigns, first-generation plug-in-hybrid systems, and newer EV architectures. The list is not a guaranteed-failure chart or an exact CR ranking. Before buying, check the specific model year, powertrain, recall history, software updates, warranty coverage, and service records.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
