The People Have Spoken! Here Are the 5 Car Brands Netizens Will Never Buy Again

They want to inspire certainty and security. Automakers want that, too! But some are better at manufacturing dependable rides than others, and that can greatly impact reputation. Here's what people who spend time socializing anonymously on the internet have to say.

Some cars are better than others. Some brands create iconic vehicles. Some people choose to spend their hard-earned money on the ride of their dreams, even if it might be known for poor reliability or have no history at all. It's how the world works. It's also why seemingly hopeless car companies manage to survive despite all odds.

But if you're the type of person who likes to aim for the best and maximize the value of every single dollar, here's what car owners have to say online about some of their previous rides. Before diving in, it's important to remember that anonymous Reddit users created this list democratically and organically. The forum has millions of people accessing it daily; over half are from the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.

The main advantage of this platform is that people's opinions are verified by their peers through a simple voting system. Those who publish misinformation or attempt to sway readers in the wrong direction are downvoted to oblivion. You'll have to try hard to see what they have to say. It's a good indicator of what's going on in the real world, bar the possibility of having to deal with confirmation bias.

So, here's the list of car brands these netizens won't ever buy again.

Chrysler

Over 4,500 agree that the retro-styled PT Cruiser damaged Chrysler's reputation. A user even called it "the fedora of cars." They pointed out issues with the electrical systems, some of the OEM alloy wheels, the starter, and leaky gaskets.

Other owners confirmed on other websites or social media platforms that the hatchback wagon and the two-door convertible had problems with the engine misfiring or stalling, cracking dashboards, clutch failures, and interior rattles.

Some model-year units were even recalled to have the rear quarter glass attaching fasteners replaced. The part was at risk of falling off at any time.

Still, when the PT Cruiser started hitting dealerships, a couple of well-known auto magazines said the quirky-looking car was their vehicle of the year or recommended their readers to buy one.

Truth be told, the PT Cruiser may not have helped Chrysler with its reputation, but it became a recognizable car almost overnight. And there are other owners out there who claim the car is comfy, they like driving it, and appreciate the available interior space. But, for those on Reddit, the Chrysler that marked the entrance into the third millennium is a no-go.

Jeep

Some people treat the brand name as an acronym for "Just Expect Every Problem" or "Just Empty Every Pocket." Disgruntled buyers are known for voicing their opinions more often than those who are happy with their purchases, but in Jeep's case, those creative approaches might hold some truth. Just last year alone, two Jeeps were included in Consumer Reports' Top 10 Least Reliable Cars.

Other netizens claiming to have owned more than one Jeep in the past chimed in and claimed that they never noticed improvements where it mattered. Some also pointed out that most Jeeps don't provide a good ride.

An insurance company claims the most common Jeep problems are related to transmission, electrical systems, increased oil consumption, faulty sensors, sunroofs, and various types of fluid leaks.

Still, the appeal of a vehicle that can leave the pavement at any moment is enough to convince people to get Jeeps. That was especially true last year when sales of the brand's plug-in hybrid Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe helped Stellantis shine. That was encouraging. It could also show that Jeep is on a mission to improve reliability.

Dodge

Almost 4,000 people agreed that the Caliber and the Nitro damaged Dodge's reputation. However, others immediately reminded those upset that the Neon was virtually indestructible. Many that survived continue to drive even today despite not being maintained properly.

Five years ago, Dodge was included in Consumer Reports' Top 10 Most Reliable Car Brands. Last year, the brand joined the Top 10 Least Reliable Car Brands ranking. So, there are signs of instability when it comes to reliability. That's not what you want to see.

However, Dodge was in 10th place and good company. Mercedes-Benz, VW, Volvo, Ford, and even Rivian were also included in that top 10.

Be it as may be, Dodge doesn't have a good reputation, and models like the Durango aren't helping. The all-electric Charger could change that, though!

Buick

Over 1,200 Redditors agree that Buick isn't putting out reliable vehicles. But things may not be as these netizens say. Slotting above Chevrolet in General Motors' portfolio, the brand enjoys a good reputation. RepairPal and J.D. Power consider Buicks to be quite reliable. Its cars are nowhere near Honda or Toyota, but the problems owners must deal with often are minimal.

Three years ago, Buick had its moment after Consumer Reports included it in the Top 10 Most Reliable Car Brands. It was the only all-American automaker that got this distinction.

Still, many have reported online issues with the transmission, the electrical system, the power steering, fluid leaks, and inaccurate fuel readings.

Despite what people might think and reliability reports say, Buick continues to surprise us with vehicles like the Envista. The marque holds around 1% of the US car market, leaving room for improvement. Let's hope it keeps on keeping on!

Land Rover

The Indian-owned British marque is well-known for manufacturing vehicles that blend practicality, enhanced off-road capabilities, and luxury. The Defender is more rugged, while the Range Rover appeals to those looking for a plush driving experience.

However, the brand isn't known for producing reliable vehicles. Over 1,100 people who spend time on Reddit agree. While their opinion reveals the negative side of things, knowing that a properly maintained Land Rover won't necessarily leave you stranded is worth it. The automaker updated its processes and changed a lot in the last few years production-wise.

Still, J.D. Power and Consumer Reports both rank the brand pretty low on the reliability scale. There's room for improvement. Many of those who agreed that Land Rover doesn't make dependable rides pointed to engine and electrical systems issues.

Were we to judge all makes based on a couple of problematic models, we would all be walking or cycling. Making cars is complicated. Sometimes, things get mixed up or overlooked. It's all part of the game. Thankfully, the Lemon Law exists. Besides that, serious brands are afraid of seeing their names dragged into all sorts of social media scandals. If your new car has issues, it'll likely be bought back.

At the end of the day, any gearhead knows that reliability isn't a simple topic. Even Toyota, the perceived champion of dependability, sold duds. While some brands have better track records than others, it's important to research specific vehicles, trims, and model years before signing the buyer's agreement.

The worst thing you can do is buy the first model year of a new vehicle generation. You're the tester when major styling changes, new platforms, engines, transmissions, and infotainment systems are introduced.

If reliability is your number one priority, always go for a model year later in the lifecycle of a car.

As for used cars, always check their history, ask for all the important details (i.e., mileage, service history, and recalls), and if things still seem iffy, require a thorough check at an independent or manufacturer-certified service center.