Buying a car is a big decision. While some brands stand out for reliability and overall value, others often fall short of consumer expectations. Whether you’re after performance, comfort, or lasting durability, avoiding certain car brands could save you plenty of headaches down the road. Based on data and insights for 2024, here are five car brands that have wound up with less-than-stellar reputations and the reasons why they’re on this list.

1. Rivian

The Hype vs. Reality

Rivian has generated significant buzz since its debut as a promising electric vehicle (EV) startup. The brand's R1T electric truck and R1S SUV showcase futuristic designs and impressive off-road capabilities. Unfortunately, Rivian’s novelty doesn’t quite make up for its disappointing reliability. Consumer Reports flagged both models for alarming issues around build quality and mechanical reliability, landing the company on its notorious “Worst Cars” list for 2024.

Adding to the challenges, Rivian’s repair network remains underdeveloped, leaving owners with only limited options for troubleshooting problems. Reports of excessive wait times for parts and repairs further sour the ownership experience. Even though the company is a fan favorite for its innovative aesthetics and eco-conscious ethos, the steep starting prices and reliability headaches don’t inspire confidence.

Why You Should Steer Clear

  • Low reliability scores on Consumer Reports
  • Expensive with limited service infrastructure
  • Stock and financial issues raise questions about long-term stability

Verdict: While Rivian represents the future of EVs in many ways, its growing pains make it a risky bet unless it resolves its glaring maintenance and reliability concerns.

2. GMC

Overpriced, Underperforming

GMC aims to offer luxury-grade trucks and SUVs—but do they live up to the price tag? Not really. Despite their upscale appearance and premium marketing, GMC vehicles are frequently criticized for lackluster reliability. For example, the GMC Sierra 1500 is often slammed for its noisy cabin, frequent mechanical problems, and below-average owner satisfaction.

While the trucks boast impressive towing capacities and rugged aesthetics, that doesn’t translate into a smooth or worry-free ownership experience. Consumer Reports even noted that no GMC model scored “good” overall in 2024, with the Sierra being especially problematic. High maintenance costs and complaints about drivetrain issues further tarnish the brand’s image.

Why You Should Steer Clear

  • Consistent low reliability scores across the board
  • Noisy interiors and clunky ride quality
  • High repair and maintenance costs

Verdict: If you’re paying for a premium truck, you expect premium quality—not constant squeaks, rattles, and repair shop visits. GMC simply falls short of expectations, offering more style than substance.

3. Jaguar

Luxury, But at What Cost?

There’s no denying Jaguar’s rich heritage and elegant styling. The brand’s cars exude sophistication, and models like the F-Type deliver thrilling performance. However, Jaguar SUVs like the F-Pace haven’t fared as well. The F-Pace, a luxury compact SUV, consistently earns poor ratings for reliability. Owners have complained about strange mechanical noises, clunky software systems in its infotainment suite, and slow responses from service centers when issues arise.

Jaguar’s luxury edge across its lineup fails to mask the underlying problems. The build quality, while initially impressive upon purchase, doesn’t seem to hold up over time, contributing to expensive and frequent service visits. And while Jaguar vehicles are undeniably stylish, reliability ranks surprisingly low when compared to other luxury competitors.

Why You Should Steer Clear

  • Persistent reliability issues, especially with the F-Pace
  • Repairs are notoriously expensive
  • Poor dealership reputation for addressing problems quickly

Verdict: Jaguar makes some of the most stunning vehicles on the market, but buyer beware—behind the glossy exterior may lie a Pandora’s box of repair bills.

4. Land Rover

Beauty with a Price (and Problems)

Like Jaguar, Land Rover belongs to the same parent company, and unfortunately, some of the same reliability woes bleed into this brand. Models such as the Range Rover Sport are known for their luxurious interiors, quiet rides, and off-road prowess. Yet these attributes often fail to make up for the brand’s abysmal reliability. Consumer Reports named Land Rover as one of 2024’s least reliable automotive brands, citing frequent issues with electrical systems, drivetrain durability, and overall build quality.

Even worse is Land Rover’s atrocious value retention. Vehicles from this manufacturer depreciate rapidly, adding to the sting of those initial high prices. While the allure of a Land Rover may tempt you, think twice before making this investment—you might be trading adventure for endless repair invoices.

Why You Should Steer Clear

  • Among the worst reliability ratings across major publications
  • High depreciation rates mean poor resale value
  • Known electrical and mechanical failures

Verdict: Land Rover’s perceived luxury status is undone by its glaring faults. Unless you have deep pockets and high patience levels, it’s best to leave these SUVs in the showroom.

5. Jeep

Not the Off-Road Champion You Think It Is

Jeep might be synonymous with rugged off-roading, but not all its vehicles live up to the brand’s adventurous reputation. While models like the Wrangler have a cult-like following, others—like the Jeep Grand Cherokee—have been heavily criticized for being anything but reliable in 2024.

Critics pointed to numerous issues with the Grand Cherokee, including software glitches in its infotainment system, tepid engine performance, and subpar build quality compared to competitors in the midsize SUV market. Although Jeep fans are fiercely loyal, the brand’s reliability issues have earned it low marks with publications like Consumer Reports. Expensive to run, glitchy to drive, and overpriced for what they offer, many Jeep models fall short of the brand’s rugged appeal.

Why You Should Steer Clear

  • Reliability concerns with popular models like the Grand Cherokee
  • Expensive compared to competitors offering similar features
  • Poor fuel economy adds to ownership costs

Verdict: If you’re thinking “Jeep means no limits,” think again. While they look great climbing trails on Instagram, some models are better at stranding you than conquering mountains.

It’s easy to get swept away by marketing hype or a polished exterior when picking a car, but these five brands remind us why doing proper research matters. Reliability, repair costs, and overall ownership satisfaction can vary wildly from brand to brand. When shopping for your next vehicle, carefully consider reviews, ratings, and owner feedback to avoid regret. After all, the best car isn’t just one that looks good—it’s one that gets you where you need to go, hassle-free.