Reliability research
Car Years to Avoid
For popular used models, these are the model years with the most owner complaints and recalls reported to NHTSA (2012–2024). Counts are raw NHTSA totals — a research starting point, not a reliability score. Pick a model, then check the specific VIN before you buy.
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500full-size pickupMost complaints: 2014, 2015, and 20199,450 complaints · 86 recalls (2012–2024)
- Ford Escapecompact SUVMost complaints: 2013, 2014, and 201714,926 complaints · 140 recalls (2012–2024)
- Ford Explorermidsize SUVMost complaints: 2013, 2015, and 201613,692 complaints · 185 recalls (2012–2024)
- Honda Accordmidsize sedanMost complaints: 2013, 2014, and 20187,892 complaints · 62 recalls (2012–2024)
- Honda Civiccompact carMost complaints: 2016, 2018, and 20225,309 complaints · 47 recalls (2012–2024)
- Honda CR-Vcompact SUVMost complaints: 2017, 2018, and 20199,263 complaints · 51 recalls (2012–2024)
- Jeep Grand Cherokeemidsize SUVMost complaints: 2012, 2014, and 20159,694 complaints · 148 recalls (2012–2024)
- Jeep Wrangleroff-road SUVMost complaints: 2012, 2018, and 20218,175 complaints · 124 recalls (2012–2024)
- Nissan Altimamidsize sedanMost complaints: 2013, 2014, and 20156,538 complaints · 59 recalls (2012–2024)
- Nissan Roguecompact SUVMost complaints: 2013, 2018, and 20235,592 complaints · 67 recalls (2012–2024)
- Subaru Outbackwagon / crossoverMost complaints: 2017, 2019, and 20206,453 complaints · 73 recalls (2012–2024)
- Toyota Camrymidsize sedanMost complaints: 2012, 2018, and 20193,295 complaints · 35 recalls (2012–2024)
Checking out one specific car?
Decode any VIN free, then see its recalls, owner complaints, and market pricing in a $9.99 report — one-time, no subscription.
Last reviewed September 2026· Data: free public NHTSA complaints & recalls
Frequently asked questions
How are the 'years to avoid' chosen?+
Each model year is ranked by the number of owner complaints filed with NHTSA between 2012 and 2024, alongside its recall count. The years with the most complaints are highlighted. Counts are raw NHTSA totals and are not adjusted for how many vehicles were sold, so this is a starting point for research — not a reliability score or a safety judgment.
Should I avoid a car just because of its model year?+
No. Two cars of the same year can be in very different condition. Use the year-level pattern to know what to look for, then check the specific VIN for its recalls, owner complaints, and market pricing before you buy.
Where does the data come from?+
Owner complaints and safety recalls come from the free public NHTSA APIs (api.nhtsa.gov), last refreshed 2026-09-15.