10 Worst Cars to Buy in 2026 If You Hate Spending Money on Maintenance

There's nothing worse than buying a new car and having to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on costly repairs. Car repairs are one of the major impediments to building wealth because it's a recurring cost over the life of the automobile.

And car repair bills continue to climb as time goes on. Cox Automotive reports that the average cost of repairs is now around $838. So, it has never been more important to avoid money mistakes and buying a car that turns into a money pit.

Here are the 10 worst cars to buy in 2026 according to Consumer Reports.

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Consumer Reports reliability score: 26/100

Between major transmission, battery, and engine issues, the Pacifica is not worth your time or money. Throw in computer glitches that freeze all the screens, and you have a recipe for pain. Replacing the battery in this hybrid can cost anywhere from $16,951 to $17,122, so it's best to look elsewhere.

Consumer Reports reliability score: 25/100

While Hondas are known for their reliability, steer clear of the Prologue EV. The latest model suffers from battery charging issues and outright battery failures that require a full replacement. An out-of-warranty EV battery replacement runs roughly $5,000–$20,000 plus labor. That, along with persistent screen issues and other electrical problems, and you're better off sticking to a regular gas-powered Honda.

Consumer Reports reliability score: 25/100

The EV6 suffers from a critical issue with the Integrated Charging Control Unit. Many drivers report a loud "pop" occurring right before the unit fails, causing a loss of power and a complete shutdown after 20-45 minutes of driving. 

If you're not covered by warranty, fixing the unit costs over $5,000. Add in issues with climate control and brakes, and suddenly this affordable EV is draining your bank account.

Consumer Reports reliability score: 24/100

Battery packs are typically the main failure point on most EVs, and that's still an issue with the EV9. Individual battery cells need to be replaced, and persistent issues with the electrical system are also prevalent here. Replacing part or all of the battery can run from $5,000–$20,000 out of warranty. There are other EV's on the market that offer better reliability and fewer headaches.

Consumer Reports reliability score: 23/100

The CX-90 runs on a relatively new platform, so there are still a bunch of transmission and engine issues that require costly repairs. Throw in electrical issues and accessory failures like the keyless entry system, and you're looking at a pricey repair bill. A transmission replacement alone will run between $5,700 to $6,300. Mazdas are known for being solid cars, but you're better off looking at older models that have proven to be more reliable.

Consumer Reports reliability score: 21/100

Many automakers are going all-in on EVs, and the results have been pretty mixed. That's the case with the GV60, which reportedly has had battery issues. Along with a faulty E-GMP system, you're looking at $5,000 or more in repair bills to fix the problem. And Genesis is a luxury car brand, so all the repairs will have a significant luxury markup. That's why it's best to find a more reliable EV.

Consumer Reports reliability score: 20/100

The plug-in version of the CX-90 somehow manages to be worse than the gas model. Owners report problems with the battery, electric motor, transmission, brakes, steering, and suspension. 

This SUV combines the two most expensive repair categories, with transmission replacements running $5,700 to $6,300 and hybrid battery replacements costing thousands more. Skip this one until Mazda works out the kinks.

Consumer Reports reliability score: 19/100

The Blazer EV has a track record that should scare off any buyer. When Edmunds bought one in 2023 for long-term testing, it racked up 23 separate faults in under two months and less than 2,000 miles, the longest list of major problems the outlet had ever recorded on a new car. 

Owners still report battery malfunctions, cooling problems, repeated 12-volt battery failures, and screens that freeze or go blank on the latest model. There are plenty of electric SUVs that won't leave you stranded at the dealership.

Consumer Reports reliability score: 18/100

Rivian makes an exciting electric truck, but exciting doesn't pay your repair bills. Owners report major problems with the battery and electric motor, along with climate system failures and bad electric door handle motors. One Consumer Reports member brought their truck in for a routine recall and was told the entire drivetrain was failing and needed replacement. 

Even small fixes get pricey: one owner paid $775 just to replace the two 12-volt batteries, and Rivian wouldn't sell him the parts to do it himself. Established truck makers offer far more proven reliability.

Consumer Reports reliability score: 14/100

The Acadia earned the worst reliability score of any vehicle this year, and it's the only one on this list without a battery to blame. Transmission problems lead the complaint list, including fluid leaks, along with brake and electrical issues. One owner reported their engine lost oil pressure on the highway at just 3,500 miles and needed a full replacement. 

RepairPal pegs the Acadia at $734 a year in average repair costs versus $573 for the typical midsize SUV, and when something breaks, there's a 19% chance it's a severe repair.

Reliability data exists so you don't have to learn these lessons with your own wallet. Before buying any car, get a pre-purchase inspection, research the specific model year, and run the VIN. Paying slightly more upfront for a proven model beats years of avoidable repair bills, so you can keep more cash in your wallet. 

Nearly every vehicle is a brand-new nameplate or freshly redesigned platform, and that's no coincidence. Consumer Reports advises shoppers to avoid newly introduced or redesigned vehicles in their first model year, since that's when problems peak. Wait a year or two, and let the automaker fix the flaws on someone else's dime.