Reliability is one of the most important factors in car ownership—sometimes even more than performance, comfort, or design. When a vehicle is dependable, it builds trust, reduces costs, and turns owners into loyal fans. But the truth is, no car is immune to change.
Over the years, models evolve, manufacturers adjust priorities, and reliability rankings shift. Some cars that were once plagued with problems become symbols of durability, while others fall from grace, letting quality slide as their makers chase trends or cut corners.
It’s important to remember that reliability isn’t just about initial quality—it’s about how well a vehicle holds up over time. It’s measured by how few issues pop up after years of ownership, how predictable maintenance is, and how consistently a brand resolves problems.
And that reputation can change dramatically from one generation to the next. Cars that were once joked about in mechanic circles have turned things around, becoming some of the most recommended used models today.
On the flip side, some nameplates that were once paragons of quality have slipped, either due to poor redesigns, new tech not ready for prime time, or cost-cutting that affected durability.
In this article, we’ll take a look at both sides. First, we’ll highlight five cars that have significantly improved their reliability over the years—through better engineering, smarter design, or simply learning from past mistakes.
Then, we’ll take a look at five vehicles that have unfortunately gone the other direction: from reliable workhorses to models you now need to think twice about before buying.
Whether you’re shopping for your next car or just curious about how models change over time, this guide explains the quiet transformations behind the headlines.
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5 Cars That Have Grown More Reliable
Kia Forte
A decade ago, Kia wasn’t exactly synonymous with reliability. The Forte, in particular, was seen as an entry-level option with okay looks but average build quality.
However, Kia has undergone a major transformation in the past 10 years, and the Forte is one of the clearest examples. It’s gone from “cheap” to “smart buy,” with strong marks in dependability, comfort, and value.
The latest generation of the Forte offers solid powertrains, refined interiors, and high-tech features that work consistently.
It’s no longer just a budget choice—it’s a vehicle that competes with longtime compact leaders like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic. Owners now report fewer mechanical issues and greater long-term satisfaction compared to older models.
This improvement isn’t a fluke. Kia has invested heavily in quality control, expanded warranties, and design upgrades, and it shows.
The Forte has gone from an also-ran to a serious contender in one of the most competitive segments, all by focusing on getting the basics right and making each generation better than the last.
Chevrolet Equinox
The Chevy Equinox didn’t start its life as a reliability champ. Early models, especially from the mid-2000s, suffered from transmission issues, electrical glitches, and cheaply made interiors.
But in the past decade, Chevrolet has steadily improved the Equinox’s build quality, making it one of the more dependable choices in the compact SUV category.
Redesigns brought better engine choices, more durable materials, and improved infotainment systems. The 2018 model year in particular marked a turning point, with a lighter platform, more efficient engines, and significantly fewer reported problems in customer surveys.
While it may not top reliability charts like a Toyota RAV4 or Mazda CX-5, it’s now a respectable, lower-risk purchase. This climb in reliability has helped the Equinox become one of GM’s best-selling vehicles in North America.
It’s proof that domestic brands can turn things around—and that improvement doesn’t always come in flashy ways. Sometimes, it’s the quiet elimination of common issues and the refinement of the basics that wins over long-term owners.
Hyundai Elantra
Much like its cousin Kia Forte, the Hyundai Elantra has pulled off a serious glow-up over the years.
Once considered a throwaway compact car that you leased for cheap and forgot about, it has matured into a highly reliable, feature-rich sedan that consistently earns praise for long-term durability.
The early 2000s Elantras were plagued by inconsistent build quality and poor resale value. But by the mid-2010s, Hyundai had completely overhauled its manufacturing processes and vehicle designs.
The latest Elantras come with fuel-efficient engines, smooth CVTs or dual-clutch transmissions, and high-quality materials—all with relatively few issues reported by owners.
The company’s industry-leading warranty (10 years/100,000 miles) isn’t just marketing—it’s a statement of confidence in how much they’ve improved. Today, the Elantra is no longer the backup plan.
For many budget-minded buyers, it’s the first choice. That kind of transformation doesn’t happen overnight, and Hyundai deserves credit for turning the Elantra into a model of consistency
Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 has steadily grown its reputation as a reliable and fun-to-drive crossover. While early models were solid, Mazda has done an excellent job over the years refining the formula.
The brand’s attention to detail—especially in its newer SkyActiv engines and minimalist-yet-durable interiors—has pushed the CX-5 into top-tier reliability rankings.
The 2017 redesign marked a leap forward, with better sound insulation, a more refined ride, and higher-quality interior materials. At the same time, Mazda didn’t overcomplicate things.
They kept the controls intuitive, the infotainment functional, and the drivetrain bulletproof. The CX-5 quickly earned a loyal following for being the “enthusiast’s SUV” that also happened to be dependable.
Mazda may not have the massive dealer footprint of Honda or Toyota, but the CX-5 stands tall among its peers in reliability surveys.
It proves that you can build a stylish, sporty vehicle that doesn’t compromise long-term dependability, and that’s a reputation Mazda is continuing to build on.
Chrysler Pacifica (Hybrid Variant)
Chrysler doesn’t exactly have a sterling reputation for reliability, but one of its standout turnarounds has come in the form of the Pacifica Hybrid.
When it was first released, many were skeptical—this was a plug-in hybrid minivan from a company not known for electrification or long-term dependability. But surprisingly, the Pacifica Hybrid has become one of the more reliable options in its class.
While early Pacifica models (especially gas-only) faced issues like transmission bugs and electrical quirks, the hybrid version quietly avoided many of those problems.
Owners have reported good fuel economy, smooth operation, and fewer breakdowns than expected. It’s even been recognized in several reliability surveys as outperforming expectations.
This success shows that Chrysler, when focused, can deliver a solid product. The Pacifica Hybrid stands out not just because it’s unique, but because it works.
For families who want space, efficiency, and peace of mind, it’s a much-improved option in a segment that often leans heavily on reputation.
5 Cars That Fell Off
Volkswagen Jetta
The Volkswagen Jetta once had a reputation for being a premium-feeling small sedan that offered German engineering at an affordable price. It was sporty, refined, and even aspirational in GLI trims.
But over the past decade, especially after 2011, the Jetta took a turn that frustrated longtime fans and reliability watchdogs alike.
In an attempt to cut costs and make the car more competitive in the U.S. market, VW downgraded interior materials, softened driving dynamics, and relied on outdated or problematic transmissions in several trims.
The quality drop was noticeable, and issues with electrical components, infotainment systems, and fuel systems became more frequent. Even newer models, while improved in tech and comfort, haven’t fully recovered their reputation.
The Jetta is no longer the fun, upscale-feeling compact sedan it once was, and reliability ratings reflect that shift. While not a disaster, it’s a clear case of a car that once punched above its weight, now struggling to distinguish itself in a crowded segment.
Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer was once a go-to family SUV known for its ruggedness and solid performance. In the 1990s and early 2000s, it was everywhere—practical, tough, and ready for weekend getaways.
But in more recent generations, especially post-2011, the Explorer has been plagued with issues that hurt its long-term reliability reputation.
Major redesigns brought with them significant growing pains: transmission failures, turbocharged EcoBoost engine problems, and tech glitches became common complaints. Even the police fleet versions—intended for high-stress use—have drawn criticism for reliability concerns.
Ford’s attempt to modernize the Explorer with more complex technology and lightweight construction may have backfired when it comes to long-term durability.
Despite its name recognition and strong initial sales, the Explorer has slipped in reliability rankings for years.
Owners continue to report higher-than-average repair rates, particularly related to drivetrain and electrical systems. It’s a far cry from the dependable, family-friendly hauler it used to be.
Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima used to be a solid, reliable midsize sedan. For years, it was the sensible alternative to the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord—roomy, efficient, and generally hassle-free.
But in recent generations, especially those equipped with Nissan’s infamous CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), the Altima has become a cautionary tale.
The biggest issue? Transmission failures—often before 100,000 miles. Nissan’s CVTs have been the subject of lawsuits and extended warranties, and they’ve plagued not just the Altima, but other models like the Rogue and Sentra.
While newer CVTs have reportedly improved, the damage to the Altima’s reliability reputation was significant.
Combine that with declining interior quality, mediocre driving dynamics, and a flood of fleet sales, and the Altima went from dependable to “only if it’s a great deal.”
Nissan has tried to modernize the design and add features, but until long-term reliability data proves otherwise, many buyers remain skeptical.
Jeep Cherokee (KL Generation)
The Jeep Cherokee was once a rugged, off-road-capable SUV with a bulletproof reputation. Older models from the ‘80s and ‘90s are still on the road today, loved for their simplicity and toughness.
But the 2014 reintroduction of the Cherokee (the KL generation) shifted the vehicle’s identity and brought with it a host of reliability issues.
Early KL Cherokees had problems with the new 9-speed automatic transmission, which was plagued by shifting delays, hesitation, and frequent repairs.
Electrical gremlins also emerged, along with engine stalling and infotainment bugs. These issues were particularly frustrating for a vehicle carrying such a beloved badge.
Jeep tried to patch things up with software updates and improved quality control in later years, but the Cherokee never fully shook its reputation.
Sales began to decline, and many off-road fans turned instead to the Wrangler or even rivals like the Toyota 4Runner. For a nameplate that once stood for rugged reliability, the modern Cherokee’s story is one of missed potential and eroded trust.
Tesla Model S
This one might surprise you, because the Tesla Model S is a technological marvel. It redefined what electric luxury sedans could be, with insane acceleration, cutting-edge design, and futuristic features. But behind the headlines and fanfare lies a troubling record of reliability problems that has persisted for years.
Owners have reported a wide range of issues: failing door handles, touchscreen malfunctions, power steering loss, drivetrain problems, and inconsistent build quality.
While the Model S’s performance is nearly unmatched, the attention to detail, especially in earlier models, left much to be desired. Even newer models, though improved, haven’t completely solved these concerns.
Tesla’s over-the-air updates and rapid engineering iterations are impressive, but they also mean some vehicles become rolling experiments.
Consumer Reports and other reliability surveys have repeatedly docked the Model S for long-term dependability, even if owner satisfaction remains high due to brand loyalty and performance perks.
The Model S hasn’t fallen off because it got slower or uglier—it’s still groundbreaking. But when it comes to the question, “Will this car last trouble-free for years?” the answer is less clear than it should be for a vehicle of its price.
If there’s one thing the auto industry proves time and again, it’s that reliability is not guaranteed—it must be earned, and then maintained.
The cars that have improved over time, like the Hyundai Elantra or Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, show that smart engineering, customer feedback, and commitment to quality can completely reshape a brand’s reputation. They’re reminders that redemption is possible, even for vehicles that started off rocky.
On the other hand, models like the Nissan Altima or Jeep Cherokee show how quickly things can go south. A few bad design choices, a poorly executed transmission, or cutting corners on materials can do real damage, not just to that year’s sales, but to an entire generation’s trust in the model.
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Reliability is more than a spec sheet. It’s about confidence. It’s about being able to hand the keys to your car to someone else and know it won’t let them down.
And whether a car has earned or lost that trust, it affects everything—from resale value to brand loyalty to word-of-mouth. For carmakers, the lesson is simple: never take reliability for granted.
