These Family SUVs Are Considered Safe but Have Surprising Hidden Problems
If you are on the market for a brand-new family SUV, chances are that you're feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sheer variety available. One of the most highly regarded characteristics of any SUV is its safety, especially if it's designed for a family. So, while you may hear stellar reviews about a vehicle's safety features, it doesn't always mean that it's a problem-free purchase. Let's take a closer look at 20 safe family SUVs that come with surprisingly hidden problems.
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is one of the most popular SUVs on the market right now. However, while it may be a great car, especially in terms of safety, it also comes with its fair share of problems. The most frequently reported issues are transmission hesitation and infotainment system glitches.
Honda CR-V
While the Honda CR-V is generally a reliable family SUV, some models have experienced frequent issues with oil dilution. This problem is particularly common in models with turbocharged engines.
Ford Explorer
The Explorer is yet another popular and safety-focused SUV from Ford. Older models (released before 2022, in particular) also struggled with poor reliability, although this issue appears to have been resolved. Newer models feature a significantly improved design, although a few buyers have reported transmission issues.
Subaru Ascent
The Subaru Ascent has also placed a strong emphasis on safety, making it a popular choice for families seeking an SUV. However, it seems as though they neglected other important aspects of the car, such as the transmission and handling. Electrical problems are also not too uncommon.
Chevrolet Traverse
The Chevrolet Traverse is a versatile SUV that seems to tick all of the right boxes. However, despite its safe design, it often experiences timing chain issues, which can lead to a rather unpleasant ride. There have also been concerns regarding the vehicle's paint durability.
Mazda CX-9
Although the Mazda CX-9 is undoubtedly a safe SUV, with its advanced safety features and solid exterior build, it may not be the ideal family car. With very limited cargo space and an outdated infotainment system, there are a number of more suitable options.
Kia Telluride
Kia is a brand synonymous with safety and reliability. While this may be true, the Kia Telluride also has its fair share of problems. Drivers often complain about wind noise, as well as the occasional transmission issue. Suspension complaints are also not too uncommon.
Nissan Pathfinder
The Nissan Pathfinder is one of the most popular family SUVs on the market at the moment. While it offers plenty of interior space and advanced safety features, the car also has a few concerns regarding CVT reliability, especially in older models.
Volkswagen Atlas
While the Volkswagen Atlas may seem like the ideal family SUV, think again. It struggles with frequent electrical system faults, which can be pricey to repair. Additionally, the car has a poor resale value, meaning you are likely to incur a significant loss on the purchase in the long run.
Volvo XC90
Despite Volvo's solid reputation for attention to detail, the XC90 falls short in several areas. Sure, it has a sturdy build and plenty of safety features. However, the car also requires expensive maintenance and often experiences software bugs.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Over the years, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has cemented itself as the favorite SUV for off-roading. While it may be unbeaten at conquering the path less traveled, it also experiences frequent transmission issues. To top it all off, the newer models often experience electrical faults.
Ford Bronco Sport
Although the Bronco Sport is one of Ford's most popular models, it doesn't come without its issues. To be more specific, many drivers have complained about concerns with build quality, as well as severe limitations in off-road conditions.
Land Rover Discovery Sport
The Land Rover Discovery Sport is undeniably a great car, but it also experiences its fair share of issues. This includes concerns about reliability and the extremely high maintenance costs involved.
Infiniti QX80
The Infiniti QX60 is a very popular family SUV that prioritizes safety above all else. However, the car does fall short in some areas. To be more specific, it often experiences transmission issues, as well as problems with the outdated infotainment system.
BMW X5
The BMW X5 may seem like the perfect family SUV, but it also experiences its fair share of problems. This includes costly repairs and air suspension failures.
Hyundai Palisade
The Hyundai Palisade is a great car. However, there have been a number of weird reports filed by drivers over the years. Many complain about a strong smell of fuel within the cabin, which is obviously a bit concerning. There have also been more than a few paint durability concerns.
Mercedes-Benz GLE
Although the GLE is one of Mercedes' most popular models at the moment, it struggles with frequent electrical failures. Moreover, these repairs are often extremely costly.
Audi Q7
Despite its reputation for luxury, the Audi Q7 has a number of issues often reported by drivers. Two of the most common problems are timing chain tensioner mishaps, as well as the high repair costs.
Nissan Armada
There is no denying that the Nissan Armada features a solid design and advanced safety features. However, when compared to other SUVs, it also has poor fuel economy and a very dated interior design.
