In the modern car market, touchscreens have become a central interface for everything—from navigation and climate control to music streaming and smartphone connectivity.
However, not all infotainment systems are built to the same standards. Some remain quick, reliable, and responsive even after years of use, while others begin to lag, glitch, or freeze within the first few years of ownership.
The difference in user experience can dramatically affect how owners feel about their vehicles and even influence resale value.
This article aims to highlight both ends of the spectrum. First, we’ll explore five cars with touchscreens that age well, systems that maintain their functionality and snappy response over long-term use.
These vehicles are built with high-quality hardware and software that can handle frequent updates and daily interactions without breaking down or slowing to a crawl.
Then, we’ll look at five cars with touchscreens that constantly freeze, which often frustrate owners with poor software integration, underpowered processors, or slow boot-up times.
These models may look good on the surface but become a hassle over time—especially in colder weather or after years of firmware neglect.
Whether you’re shopping new or used, this guide will help you avoid tech-related buyer’s remorse.
Also Read: 5 Cars That Make Weekend Trips Easy and 5 That Make You Want to Stay Home
5 Cars With Touchscreens That Age Well
Touchscreens have become a defining element of automotive interiors. But while flashy graphics and multi-function menus may look impressive during a test drive, what truly matters is how these systems perform after years of real-world use.
The reality is that many infotainment units begin to suffer from aging components, software lag, and compatibility issues as time goes on. However, a select few manage to retain their responsiveness, clarity, and ease of use even after crossing the 100,000-mile mark.
This section explores five cars with infotainment systems that continue to deliver long after their showroom shine fades.
The criteria we used to determine which cars made the list include real-world owner feedback, software update support, hardware durability, touchscreen responsiveness, and how well the system handles modern connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
In particular, these cars don’t just “still work”—they excel in daily usability. You won’t find frozen screens, delayed inputs, or Bluetooth issues here. Instead, these vehicles offer a consistent, lag-free experience that rivals or even outpaces newer competitors.
Automakers that invest in top-tier suppliers, maintain software over-the-air updates, and build around intuitive UI principles tend to shine in this category.
We’re not just praising the user interface—we’re recognizing long-term trustworthiness. Whether you’re buying used or planning to keep your new car for a decade, these infotainment systems won’t leave you tapping the screen in frustration.
Now, let’s look at five models that get touchscreen tech right, even years down the road.
1. 2020–Present Mazda CX-5
Mazda’s CX-5 has quietly built a reputation not just for engaging driving dynamics, but also for dependable in-cabin tech.
Starting with the 2020 refresh, Mazda moved away from touchscreen-dominant controls and reinforced a rotary-dial-centric interface—yet when the screen is used, it responds crisply. Despite being a non-touch interface while driving (due to safety focus), the display’s hardware holds up impressively.
Why is the CX-5’s system so durable? It utilises a simplified, low-latency interface with minimal background processes, reducing the likelihood of crashes or performance degradation over time.
Mazda Connect runs a Linux-based system that has seen consistent updates without bloating performance. Crucially, this means the software doesn’t outpace the hardware, something that plagues many competitors.
Owners report rare bugs and virtually no freezing incidents, even after years of use. Boot-up times remain quick, and navigation loads without noticeable lag. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were added in later trims and perform smoothly.
While the UI might not dazzle with flashy animations, its simplicity keeps it from aging poorly. The screen’s resolution and brightness also age gracefully, maintaining legibility even after thousands of engine starts.
Ultimately, the CX-5 proves that long-term touchscreen usability isn’t about flashy features—it’s about thoughtful engineering.
2. 2018–2023 Honda Accord
The Honda Accord stands as a benchmark for midsize sedans, and its infotainment system only adds to its appeal. Beginning with the 2018 redesign, Honda introduced a new 8-inch touchscreen system that vastly improved upon its predecessor.
What sets this system apart is not just its ease of use when new—but how well it functions years later.
Unlike earlier Honda systems that were plagued by lag and finicky controls, the updated Accord interface offers large, clearly labeled icons, a responsive capacitive touchscreen, and support for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard.
More importantly, the system doesn’t degrade with time. Owners who’ve clocked over 80,000 to 100,000 miles still report snappy performance and very few crashes or glitches.
Part of the Accord’s long-term infotainment success lies in Honda’s minimalistic software approach. It doesn’t overwhelm the system with overly flashy graphics or heavy animations. That helps the embedded processor handle operations smoothly for years.
Plus, Honda provides routine software patches that keep bugs in check without bloating the firmware.
The touchscreen itself holds up physically, too. It resists fingerprints better than most, stays visible in direct sunlight, and doesn’t suffer from premature dead spots or fading. Boot-up time remains consistently fast, and key functions like Bluetooth and navigation don’t freeze even in harsh weather.
In a tech-heavy era where many infotainment systems struggle to age gracefully, the Honda Accord proves that a thoughtful balance of hardware and software leads to a reliable and user-friendly experience.
For buyers considering used models from this generation, the infotainment system should be a reassurance—not a red flag.
3. 2019–Present Subaru Forester
Subaru’s Forester, particularly from the 2019 model year onward, integrates a Starlink infotainment system that has proven impressively resilient to age.
While Subaru isn’t always the first brand that comes to mind for advanced tech, the brand made significant improvements with this generation, delivering a touchscreen that resists the typical signs of aging.
The 8-inch touchscreen in Premium trims and above is capacitive, not resistive, and features clear menus with large fonts. It runs a relatively lean UI that’s logically organized and easy to navigate.
Although it may not be as lightning-fast as its luxury rivals, what stands out is its consistency. Owners report the system continuing to perform just as reliably three to five years after purchase.
Where many infotainment units begin to bog down under software updates or frequent usage, Subaru’s setup keeps its performance steady. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration is seamless—even wired-only versions experience minimal hiccups.
And crucially, unlike systems that freeze when transitioning between apps or reconnecting Bluetooth, the Forester’s infotainment maintains reliable function.
Subaru also earns credit for maintaining a focus on durability. The screen is well-shielded from glare and temperature swings, making it less prone to seasonal malfunctions—a frequent complaint with older touchscreens.
The physical buttons and knobs surrounding the display remain functional even with heavy use, adding to the system’s overall lifespan.
Ultimately, the Forester proves that long-term reliability doesn’t require cutting-edge specs. What matters is execution—and Subaru nails it with a touchscreen that avoids many pitfalls owners typically encounter down the line.
4. 2021–Present Toyota Highlander
Toyota’s infotainment systems have historically leaned toward conservative design, but that approach pays off in long-term dependability—especially in the 2021–present Toyota Highlander.
This SUV uses Toyota’s Entune 3.0 system (and later the upgraded Toyota Audio Multimedia platform), both of which have been widely praised for their smooth operation and rare incidence of touchscreen freezing or sluggishness.
What helps the Highlander stand out is the hardware and software harmony. The touchscreen is offered in 8-inch and optional 12.3-inch sizes, both of which use capacitive touch for precise responsiveness.
The interface is not overloaded with distracting animations, but instead presents information in clean tiles that load fast and respond instantly—even after years of use.
Bluetooth connectivity, one of the most common sources of infotainment issues, is rarely problematic in this model. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto became standard on newer trims, and user reports indicate near-flawless operation with minimal dropouts or lag.
Even when switching between native menus and smartphone mirroring, the system doesn’t freeze or slow down, a trait that some premium competitors struggle to match.
Physical volume and tuning knobs complement the screen well and contribute to user satisfaction. More importantly, Toyota’s ongoing commitment to over-the-air updates ensures the software ages gracefully.
While some manufacturers leave infotainment systems to rot without support, Toyota continues to refine usability post-purchase.
From a durability standpoint, the touchscreen remains legible and touch-accurate over time. Highlander owners report minimal wear even on high-mileage examples, with no ghost inputs or unresponsive corners—a frequent sign of age in cheaper units.
In summary, the Toyota Highlander combines mature, conservative design with reliable execution, resulting in an infotainment system that’s as pleasant to use in year five as it is on day one.
5. 2019–Present Kia Telluride
Kia hit a home run with the Telluride in many areas—design, ride quality, features—but one of the most underappreciated aspects of this SUV is its well-executed infotainment system.
From 2019 onward, the Telluride came equipped with an 8-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreen that performs impressively over time, thanks to a well-matched combination of hardware and software.
The system is based on Hyundai-Kia’s shared architecture, known for being responsive and intuitive. What really sets it apart is that it doesn’t slow down even as the years roll by.
Owners report that even at 80,000 to 100,000 miles, the touchscreen remains snappy when swiping through menus or launching apps. Boot-up is quick, and there’s minimal delay when switching functions.
Kia’s user interface is smartly laid out and avoids unnecessary fluff. Touch targets are large, which minimizes missed presses.
Better still, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are smooth and trouble-free, without the annoying stutters or dropouts that plague some older systems.
Kia has also pushed software updates periodically—often accessible via USB—making sure compatibility keeps up with smartphone changes.
The physical touchscreen itself is built to last. It resists scratches, stays clear in sunlight, and doesn’t develop common age-related flaws like ghost touches.
Temperature fluctuations don’t seem to impair performance, and the frame around the screen doesn’t warp or creak—a sign of good manufacturing.
Telluride’s infotainment is a textbook case of “design it right the first time.” With high marks for long-term reliability and user satisfaction, it’s no wonder the Telluride continues to be one of the most recommended SUVs on the used market—not just for its ride, but for its tech that actually holds up.
5 Cars With Touchscreens That Constantly Freeze
While automotive technology has advanced rapidly, not every touchscreen system has aged gracefully. In fact, some cars—despite high price tags or modern branding—are plagued by infotainment systems that consistently freeze, lag, or crash.
These issues go beyond mere annoyance. In some cases, they can interfere with basic driving functions like climate control, rearview cameras, or navigation, making the experience frustrating and even unsafe.
In this section, we focus on five cars with infotainment systems that freeze regularly or degrade significantly over time. These aren’t isolated cases either; the systems mentioned have been the subject of widespread consumer complaints, technical service bulletins, or even class-action lawsuits in some cases.
While these vehicles may offer other appealing features—such as comfort, performance, or styling—their screen-based technology consistently fails to keep pace with expectations.
Why do these systems fail? Often it’s a combination of underpowered processors, poorly optimized software, and lack of proper update support. Many automakers rush to include new touchscreen features without fully testing long-term performance or software stability.
As a result, owners are left to deal with repeated reboots, unresponsive inputs, Bluetooth failures, or navigation that refuses to load when needed most.
For drivers who rely on their infotainment system daily, these flaws can turn an otherwise excellent vehicle into a major headache.
And because infotainment repairs often aren’t covered after basic warranties expire, frozen screens can become expensive long-term liabilities.
Let’s dive into five vehicles that unfortunately fall into this trap—cars that may drive well, but come with infotainment tech you might want to avoid.
1. 2017–2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee (Uconnect 4)
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is well-regarded for its rugged capability and upscale interior, but the 2017–2020 models fitted with the Uconnect 4 infotainment system have been a persistent source of frustration for many owners—thanks to repeated freezing, software glitches, and unresponsive touchscreen behavior.
On paper, Uconnect 4 should be a winning system. It features a large 8.4-inch display, built-in navigation, and compatibility with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, in real-world use, especially after a couple of years, it often becomes a weak link in the ownership experience.
Numerous user reports and forum threads point to a disturbing trend: screen freezing during use, random restarts while driving, or the system locking up completely until the vehicle is turned off and restarted.
What causes these issues? Primarily, the touchscreen system is powered by hardware that quickly becomes overwhelmed as software demands increase—especially after updates. The operating system lacks the processing overhead to handle tasks like music playback, navigation, and smartphone mirroring all at once.
This leads to lag, stutters, and ultimately total screen lockouts. Several Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) have been issued by FCA (now Stellantis), acknowledging problems with Uconnect freezing, but remedies are often software patches that don’t fully resolve the core issue.
Bluetooth connectivity is also a common failure point. Users have complained about calls dropping unexpectedly or phones disconnecting during use. In colder weather, some systems take several minutes just to boot properly—unacceptable for a modern vehicle marketed as premium.
While the rest of the Grand Cherokee may hold up well with age, its infotainment system has a documented tendency to degrade, especially after the 50,000-mile mark.
Unfortunately, repairs aren’t cheap. Replacing a frozen or non-functioning Uconnect head unit outside warranty can cost over $1,200, making this more than just a minor inconvenience.
In summary, despite its premium badge and promising features, the Grand Cherokee’s touchscreen system often turns into a recurring source of disappointment—and for many, a deal-breaker in long-term ownership.
2. 2016–2019 Ford Explorer (SYNC 3)
The Ford Explorer, particularly in its 2016 to 2019 model years equipped with SYNC 3, promised an upgraded infotainment experience over the notoriously clunky MyFord Touch system it replaced.
Unfortunately, SYNC 3 introduced a different set of problems—most notably persistent screen freezing and unresponsive behavior, especially as the vehicle aged.
When it debuted, SYNC 3 was praised for its simplified interface and smartphone-like responsiveness. However, that performance doesn’t always hold up.
Many owners report the system becoming sluggish, locking up mid-use, or freezing entirely on the Ford logo upon startup. This often requires a full vehicle restart or a hard reset to regain functionality—an issue that becomes more frequent after 40,000 to 60,000 miles.
The root of the problem lies in both hardware and software mismatches. SYNC 3’s software, developed on the QNX platform, was built to support increasing multimedia demands and smartphone connectivity.
However, the system’s internal memory and processor struggle to keep up over time, especially after firmware updates and increased data caching. When overloaded, the screen can become entirely unresponsive or refuse to transition between menus.
Some owners have even noted blank or black screens during driving, temporarily disabling access to HVAC or navigation controls.
Ford issued multiple updates, and while some reduced boot-up lag or added new features like Waze support, they did little to solve the freezing issue for many Explorer users.
Compounding the frustration is the lack of long-term support for out-of-warranty units, forcing some owners to pay for replacements costing up to $1,000 or more.
Another commonly reported symptom is delayed response when engaging Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.
For instance, plugging in a phone can freeze the screen or lock out other functions entirely until the system is rebooted. Bluetooth pairing also becomes less stable over time, and voice commands sometimes fail to initiate altogether.
In essence, the SYNC 3 system in these Explorers may have started strong, but its reliability erodes with use—making what should be a convenience into an ongoing inconvenience.
For buyers considering a used Explorer from this era, it’s a critical factor worth testing thoroughly before purchase.
3. 2015–2018 Volkswagen Golf (MIB II Infotainment System)
The Volkswagen Golf is often celebrated for its refined ride, European feel, and practical hatchback layout. But when it comes to the infotainment experience in the 2015–2018 models—particularly those with the MIB II system—the car’s tech reputation takes a significant hit.
The touchscreen interface in these vehicles is plagued by persistent freezing, especially in real-world conditions where drivers expect quick, stable performance.
MIB II was designed to be an improvement over earlier VW systems, boasting capacitive touchscreens, smartphone integration, and faster processing.
However, as these vehicles age, users increasingly report slow boot-up times, erratic touchscreen behavior, and complete screen freezes, often occurring during simple tasks like changing a radio station or adjusting climate settings.
Many of these glitches stem from insufficient RAM and underpowered processors. VW tried to offer a premium media experience with features like proximity sensors and gesture controls, but the hardware couldn’t sustain it over time.
The result? A system that starts to bog down as more software updates are applied and the unit is exposed to years of daily use.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity—initially touted as a strong point—become unreliable, especially when multiple apps are in use.
Some drivers note the screen freezing for several minutes after plugging in a phone, sometimes followed by a full system crash requiring ignition cycling to reset.
In cold weather, delays can stretch even further, with some screens staying black or unresponsive for up to five minutes.
Even when functioning, lag is common. Switching menus or returning to the home screen can take several seconds—an eternity by modern standards. The capacitive screen can also become less responsive to touch over time, with some users experiencing “dead spots” that render core functions inaccessible.
Although Volkswagen issued occasional firmware updates, support for out-of-warranty vehicles has been inconsistent. Worse yet, replacing the infotainment head unit with OEM parts can cost well over $1,200, making the problem more than just a nuisance.
Ultimately, for a car as otherwise well-built as the Golf, its MIB II system drags down the ownership experience. While newer VW systems are better optimized, the 2015–2018 models remain a cautionary tale in infotainment design.
4. 2017–2020 Chevrolet Malibu (Chevrolet MyLink System)
The Chevrolet Malibu from 2017 to 2020 attempted to modernize its appeal with sleeker styling, active safety tech, and Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system.
At first glance, the touchscreen setup seems like a step in the right direction, boasting a bright interface, smartphone connectivity, and integrated Wi-Fi.
But over time, many Malibu owners have found that the system doesn’t hold up well—especially when it comes to freezing and sluggish responsiveness.
One of the biggest issues plaguing the MyLink system in these Malibus is frequent system hangs during basic operations. Simple actions like changing an audio source, accessing settings, or pairing a phone can result in long pauses, frozen screens, or complete system lock-ups.
Many users report needing to power-cycle the vehicle just to regain touchscreen control, a workaround that grows increasingly annoying with repeated use.
Compounding the frustration is the system’s poor handling of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Owners frequently complain that plugging in their phone causes the screen to freeze for several minutes—or worse, leads to a cascading failure where Bluetooth disconnects, audio playback is interrupted, and climate controls accessed through the touchscreen become unreachable.
The system may eventually reboot on its own, but this can happen while driving, temporarily blacking out all media and navigation functions.
What’s especially troublesome is that these problems often begin early in ownership—sometimes within the first 30,000 miles.
GM dealerships have issued software updates, and in some cases replaced faulty head units, but reports indicate that fixes don’t always hold. Many users experience recurring issues even after supposed repairs.
On top of that, because these malfunctions are considered “intermittent,” some dealerships resist warranty coverage without replicable symptoms.
Physical durability is another concern. The screen’s surface shows wear quickly, with fingerprints and micro-scratches building up after a couple of years. Touch sensitivity degrades, making even successful interactions feel delayed or inaccurate.
For a midsize sedan positioned as a tech-savvy alternative to rivals like the Camry and Accord, the Malibu’s infotainment system becomes a liability rather than a selling point.
Buyers looking at used models should approach with caution—and test the touchscreen thoroughly before committing.
In today’s vehicles, the touchscreen has evolved into more than just a convenience—it’s a central hub for navigation, climate control, media, and communication.
A responsive and reliable system enhances the driving experience, while a laggy or frozen screen can quickly become a daily source of frustration.
As this article illustrates, not all touchscreen systems are created equal, and their long-term performance varies significantly between models.
On one hand, cars like the Mazda CX-5, Honda Accord, and Toyota Highlander prove that well-integrated infotainment systems can hold up exceptionally well over time.
These systems don’t just perform smoothly when new—they retain their responsiveness, connectivity, and user satisfaction even after years of use.
They’re aided by thoughtful software design, quality hardware, and solid manufacturer support, which combine to provide a seamless experience even at higher mileage.
On the other hand, vehicles such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Explorer, and Nissan Rogue demonstrate how poorly optimized infotainment systems can age badly, developing persistent freezing issues that undermine the vehicle’s appeal.
Whether it’s underpowered processors, lack of firmware updates, or simply poor user interface design, these issues aren’t just cosmetic—they impact everyday usability and can even pose safety concerns when essential functions like rear cameras or phone calls are compromised.
For buyers in the used car market, infotainment should not be an afterthought. A vehicle that looks great and drives well may still leave you disappointed if the touchscreen consistently freezes or malfunctions.
It’s worth taking extra time during a test drive to cycle through menus, connect a smartphone, and observe system behavior during boot-up.
Ultimately, infotainment quality can be a subtle but powerful indicator of a vehicle’s overall engineering discipline.
Automakers who get it right show a commitment to long-term customer satisfaction, while those who fall short reveal gaps in their approach to real-world usability.
When choosing your next car, don’t just test the ride—test the tech. It may make all the difference in how much you enjoy living with that vehicle every day.
Also Read: 5 Cars That Make Weekend Trips Easy and 5 That Make You Want to Stay Home
