Why 'Consumer Reports' says these 6 cars are trouble
When it comes to Consumer Reports' list of auto reliability, its survey singles out six vehicles — three cars, three crossover SUVs — as being especially troublesome.
They were the worst on the list.
In a couple of cases, the vehicles are new models, which are susceptible to shaky launches as automakers work out the bugs. Others have newfangled technology, such as gas-saving transmissions that are proving to be the culprit. Jeep Cherokee, for instance, has an innovative nine-speed transmission and Consumer Reports says Nissan Pathfinder is having trouble with its CVT transmission.
Still, it's a lineup that no automaker wants to join. H ere's what Anita Lam, CR's auto data manager, cited as being the reasons that the worst were indeed the worst:
• Fiat 500L: The boxy Italian design has a balky infotainment system, using a version of Chrysler Group's UConnect, and transmission issues.
• Ford Fiesta: Owners responding to Consumer Reports' survey didn't like its automatic transmission.
• Mercedes Benz CLA: A raft of problems, including squeaks and rattles; engine issues, bad audio and electrical problems.
• Jeep Cherokee, with the four-cylinder engine: The nine-speed transmission was an issue and the four-cylinder version had twice as many complaints as the V-6.
• Jeep Grand Cherokee, with the diesel engine: Owners reported that the new engine gave them fits when it came to the fuel system.
• Nissan Pathfinder: The new one has a new CVT and owners didn't like it.