A new car that starts off as a thrill can end up as a bad headache.
The quality of today’s new cars is sinking fast. J.D. Power’s 2023 U.S. Initial Quality Study ranked cars from the 2023 model year based on the number of problems per 100 vehicles and found that those problems are rising sharply.
The industry average in the study was 192 problems per 100 vehicles, which was an increase of 30 problems per 100 vehicles from 2021.
In a few cases, automakers are holding their own. For more on that, check out “The 26 Best New Car Models for Quality.”
But many other models are not faring so well. Following are the car brands that give owners the most headaches.
Mitsubishi
Number of problems reported by owners of this car brand: 193 per 100 vehicles
Mitsubishi has been making cars since as far back as 1917. In the 1970s, the Japanese manufacturer began selling vehicles in the U.S. under the Chrysler brand. Within a decade, it had gone autonomous by establishing Mitsubishi Motors North America.
Toyota
Number of problems reported by owners of this car brand: 194 per 100 vehicles
For three-quarters of a century, Toyota has been manufacturing vehicles. Today, its car models are among the most popular in the world.
Ford
Number of problems reported by owners of this car brand: 201 per 100 vehicles
Arguably the most iconic of all automakers, Ford has been producing autos since 1903. Henry Ford, the company’s founder, is one of the most celebrated innovators in the history of business.
Mercedes-Benz
Number of problems reported by owners of this car brand: 201 per 100 vehicles
The Mercedes-Benz brand is practically synonymous with premium, luxury vehicles. The company even invented the air bag in 1980.
Land Rover
Number of problems reported by owners of this car brand: 203 per 100 vehicles
The Land Rover brand conjures the romance of exploring rough roads in the great outdoors. The manufacturer itself trumpets Land Rover’s “unique marriage of capability and composure.”
Mazda
Number of problems reported by owners of this car brand: 203 per 100 vehicles
Mazda is perhaps best known for its rotary engine technology. This unique type of engine construction provides higher power output when compared to a cylinder engine. Use of the rotary engine was discontinued in 2012, but it is making a comeback with the MX-30 R-EV.
Acura
Number of problems reported by owners of this car brand: 207 per 100 vehicles
Acura is a luxury brand owned by legendary Japanese automaker Honda. It first arrived in the U.S. and Canada in 1986.
Lincoln
Number of problems reported by owners of this car brand: 208 per 100 vehicles
Lincoln was once known for producing vehicles for limousine and livery service. Today, the automaker focuses on crossovers and SUVs.
Infiniti
Number of problems reported by owners of this car brand: 212 per 100 vehicles
Infiniti is a luxury brand founded in 1989. The automaker says its “minimalist design” is grounded in its Japanese heritage.
Audi
Number of problems reported by owners of this car brand: 221 per 100 vehicles
Audi is a German luxury brand. It is “known for technology and style as much as its performance,” according to Consumer Reports.
Volkswagen
Number of problems reported by owners of this car brand: 249 per 100 vehicles
Volkswagen is a German brand with a storied history that includes the beloved Beetle. The manufacturer’s vehicles appeal to those who like a simple, conservative look.
Chrysler
Number of problems reported by owners of this car brand: 250 per 100 vehicles
Like Ford, Chrysler has the pedigree of an iconic American carmaker. Founded in the 1920s, it is now the American subsidiary of Stellantis, a multinational automotive company.
Volvo
Number of problems reported by owners of this car brand: 250 per 100 vehicles
Volvo is a Swedish manufacturer of luxury vehicles. The company’s models have had a longstanding reputation for safety.
