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In-car electronics, power equipment headaches for drivers, Consumer Reports survey finds

Consumer Reports released its largest reliability survey to date, analyzing owner experiences on more than 500,000 vehicles. It shows that in-car electronics, power equipment and transmissions "continue to give owners headaches."

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By
Monica Laliberte
, WRAL executive producer/consumer reporter
RALEIGH, N.C. — Will your brand new car land you in the repair shop?

Consumer Reports released its largest reliability survey to date, analyzing owner experiences on more than 500,000 vehicles. It shows a common repeat problem.

Mike Quincy with Consumer Reports said that in-car electronics, like infotainment systems, power equipment and transmissions “continue to give owners headaches.”

The survey also includes information about climate and electrical systems and brakes.

When all the tallying was done, Lexus, Toyota and Mazda topped the overall reliability list. Mazda made the biggest jump, moving up nine spots from the previous year.

At the bottom: Tesla, Cadillac and Volvo.

"The Tesla Model S electric sedan actually lost its recommended status because of issues reported by CR members with the car's air suspension and body hardware issues such as the car's door handles,” Quincy said.

Turbo engines are becoming more common, yet some owners said they had trouble with the turbocharger and engine computer. A few even needed complete engine replacements in new cars.

Experts say when automakers introduce new technology, it can take several model years to get it working correctly.

As for the specific car models that came out as most reliable:

  • Lexus GX
  • Toyota Prius C
  • Mazda MX-5 Miata

The least reliable:

  • Ram 3500
  • Tesla Model X
  • Cadillac ATS

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