The 17 ‘Trouble Spots’ Consumer Reports Inspects to Determine a Car’s Reliablity, Explained
engine (or electric motor), major
According to Consumer Reports, this category includes engines and electric motors, cylinder heads, timing chains, superchargers, turbochargers, head gaskets, or belts that need rebuilding or replacement.
engine (or electric motor), minor
These trouble spots include various accessory belts and pulleys, engine computers, engine mounts, oil leaks, fuel leaks, electric motor malfunctions, engine knocks and pins.
engine cooling
Here you can find problems with radiators, water pumps, thermostats, antifreeze leaks, cooling fans, and overheating.
Transmission (major)
Here you should check if there has been or is a need to rebuild or replace the transmission, replace the clutch prematurely, or replace the torque converter.
Transmission (minor)
Here you can find rough shifts, slip transmissions, transmission computers, clutch adjustments, leaks, transmission sensors or solenoids.
driving system
Anything dealing with driveshafts or axles, transfer cases, four-wheel or all-wheel drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failures, traction control, or electronic stability control drives detailed in consumer reports part of the system.
fuel system
The fuel system trouble spot covers issues with the fuel injection system, fuel pump, O2 sensor, emissions control device, and fuel tank.
electric/charging system
Electric (or charging) systems include alternators, starters, spark plugs, automatic start and stop, hybrid or electric battery replacement and related systems, conventional batteries, and electric vehicle charging (where applicable).
climate system
Anything that affects the interior of the car being part of the climate system falls into this consumer reporting category. This includes AC compressors, fan motors, condensers, heater systems, automatic air conditioning systems, evaporators, electrical failures, and refrigerant leaks.
suspension/steering
Suspension and steering systems include shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, alignments, steering linkages, power steering, wheel balance, bushings, electronic or air suspension, springs or torsion bars.
break
Brake trouble spots may seem self-evident. Still, it certainly includes anti-lock systems, parking brakes, calipers, pulsations or vibrations, squeaks, brake failures, master cylinders, premature wear, and regenerative braking.
exhaust
The exhaust system includes mufflers, pipes, exhaust manifolds, heat shields and leaks.
paint/trim
Consumer Reports asks drivers to locate the exterior paint and trim of their vehicle and check for fading, peeling, cracking, chalking paint, rust, loose trim or moldings on the inside or outside.
body integrity
Are there any abnormal noises in the ride? The Body Integrity category looks for squeaks, rattles, wind noise, air or water leaks, and seals and/or weatherstrips.
body hardware
The structure of the car inside and out is a view of the hardware. Windows, locks and latches, tailgates, doors, sliding doors, mirrors, seat controls (manual or electric), heated steering wheels, seat belts, heated seats, cooled seats, convertible tops, sunroofs, or glass Examine defects.
Power supply and accessories
More modern vehicles include power units and accessories. These features include cruise control, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor, tire pressure monitor, 12V power plug, USB port, alarm or security system, remote engine, automatic headlights, and wireless charging pad. included.
Automotive electronics
Finally, the next car’s 17th potential trouble spot could be your on-board electronics. Features included here are CD player, rear entertainment system, speakers, radio, in-dash GPS, voice control, Bluetooth, steering wheel control, portable music device interface, smartphone compatibility, and heads-up display.