Least Reliable Cars 2025: Ranking of Models and Brands with the Most Problems

Discover the 2025 ranking of the least reliable cars: models and brands with the most problems, common defects, symptoms to recognize, and average repair costs. Updated guide with garage recommendations.

When buying a car, reliability is crucial. Based on case studies seen in the spare parts warehouse, feedback from partner workshops, and major international reports, we've summarized the models with recurring issues and the defects you should be aware of before signing.

Warning: Every vehicle is unique. Maintenance, mileage, and driving style are far more important than the brand itself.

🧭 Method and criteria

• Reports from partner workshops and spare parts order history.
• Type of defects : engine, transmission, electronics/infotainment, DPF/AdBlue.
• Economic impact : frequency and average cost of repairs.
• Year/Engine/Transmission : Critical issues change with batches and updates.

🚗 Most problematic models (2025)

1) Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost (3rd gen, until 2018)

• Recurring defects : aspirated/turbo irregularities, higher than average oil consumption in urban use.
• Symptoms : performance drops, engine warning lights, abnormal noise when hot.
• Advice : Early servicing and correct oil specification; diagnosis of injection and turbocharger if jerking occurs.

In-depth analysis: FORD FOCUS 1.0 ECOBOOST (III GEN): RECURRING FAULTS, SYMPTOMS AND ADVICE

2) Mazda CX‑5 Skyactiv‑D (2.2)

• Recurring defects : cam wear, internal carbonization, difficulty in DPF regeneration with urban use.
• Symptoms : smoke, frequent regenerations, high consumption, DPF warning lights.
• Advice : regular extra-urban journeys, oil level checks (dilution), professional additives when recommended.

In-Depth Analysis: MAZDA CX-5 SKYACTIV-D 2.2: COMMON PROBLEMS, SYMPTOMS, AND SOLUTIONS

3) Peugeot 308 1.6 THP (until 2015)

• Recurring defects : intake/valve fouling, turbo criticalities on initial batches.
• Symptoms : Gaps in acceleration, warning lights, turbo noise.
• Advice : targeted cleaning of intake, oil, and quality filters; boost pressure diagnosis.

4) Renault Mégane 1.2 TCe

• Recurring defects : oil dilution with fuel, high oil consumption.
• Symptoms : frequent service light, gasoline smell in the oil, knocking when cold.
• Advice : monitor oil level every 1,000 km, update injection software, use compliant oil.

5) Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI EA111

• Recurring defects : timing chain (stretching/jumping), oil leaks from seals.
• Symptoms : hard starting, chain noise, engine lights.
• Advice : Replace timing belt components if noisy, check for leaks and update software.

🏷️ Least Trustworthy Brands: What It Really Means

The "brand" rankings are useful but should be read by model/year/engine . Some technologically advanced brands may suffer from electronics/assembly issues; others may suffer from small turbo petrol engines or "urban" diesels with DPFs.

✅ Practical purchasing advice

• Trust Report + User Reviews : Compare multiple sources.
• Pre-purchase OBD diagnosis : stored errors and vital parameters.
• Long road test : mixed routes, check for jolts and noise.
• Workshop inspection and documented service history .
• Consider extending the warranty on your engine/gearbox/DPF.

💰 Typical costs (2025): recurring failures

Area	Typical intervention	Approximate cost	Time*
Small turbo petrol engines	Intake/valve cleaning, upgrades, turbo	€250–1,200+	2–8 h
Diesel with DPF in the city	DPF cleaning/regeneration; replacement in severe cases	€150–300 (substitute €1,500–2,200)	2–8 h
Timing chain (TSI EA111)	Distribution kit + registrations	€700–1,500	1–2 days
Dual clutch gearboxes	Upgrades, clutches, mechatronics	€150–1,800 (overhaul €2,000–3,000)	1–3 days

*Average workshop times vary by model and spare parts availability.

🔗 Useful links

• FAP Problems: A Complete Guide to 2025
• Best additive for FAP cleaning
• Recommended additives for modern diesel engines
• 0W20 vs. 5W30 Oil: Differences and Choice
• 7-speed Powershift transmission problems

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is a “blacklist” always valid?

No. A model can improve with restyling and updates. Always check the year, engine code, and transmission.

Is petrol or diesel better for city use?

In the city, petrol/mild hybrid is better: diesels suffer on the DPF with repeated short journeys.

Is it worth buying a “risky” car if the price is good?

Yes, if maintenance is documented, the unit is in working order, and you agree to a prevention budget for known issues.

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