10 Car Models With the Most Recalls

Millions of drivers who buy a car can expect a recall notice at some point. In 2022, more than 400 recalls were issued that affected 25 million vehicles, according to iSeeCars.

That number is actually an improvement over 2021, when 1,000-plus recalls affected more than 35 million vehicles.

Recently, iSeeCars analyzed recall data from the National Highway Highway Traffic Safety Administration for the last 10 vehicle model years to determine the number of recalls that can be expected over a car’s 30-year lifespan.

The researchers discovered that “the potential for a recall varies — quite dramatically — between models,” iSeeCars reports. Following are the car models expected to have the most recalls over the course of a 30-year period.

9. Ram 1500 Classic (tie)

Number of recalls this model is expected to have over 30 years: 20.5 (which is 5.13 times more than the average among all vehicles)

The latest edition of the Ram 1500 Classic has earned praise for its refined interior but is said to lack advanced safety features.

9. Ram 1500 (tie)

Number of recalls this model is expected to have over 30 years: 20.5 (which is 5.13 times more than the average among all vehicles)

Reviewers say the new Ram 1500 handles well but does not come cheap.

8. Volkswagen Atlas

Number of recalls this model is expected to have over 30 years: 20.8 (which is 5.2 times more than the average among all vehicles)

The latest Volkswagen Atlas has a spacious interior but has been criticized for lackluster fuel economy.

7. Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

Number of recalls this model is expected to have over 30 years: 22.4 (which is 5.6 times more than the average among all vehicles)

The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport’s latest edition has a large second row, but critics lament a lack of quality in its interior materials.

6. Lincoln Aviator

Number of recalls this model is expected to have over 30 years: 23 (which is 5.75 times more than the average among all vehicles)

Reviewers praise the new Lincoln Aviator’s peppy acceleration but lament its soft handling.

5. Tesla Model S

Number of recalls this model is expected to have over 30 years: 26.4 (which is 6.6 times more than the average among all vehicles)

One review says the latest Tesla S has “head-spinning” acceleration, but notes that the steering wheel feels gimmicky.

4. Tesla Model X

Number of recalls this model is expected to have over 30 years: 27.3 (which is 6.83 times more than the average among all vehicles)

The latest edition of the Tesla Model X earns high marks for its battery range, but critics say the build quality can be iffy.

3. Tesla Model 3

Number of recalls this model is expected to have over 30 years: 56.8 (which is 14.2 times more than the average among all vehicles)

Reviewers say the new Tesla Model 3 has an elegant cabin, but the rear seats are cramped.

2. Porsche Panamera

Number of recalls this model is expected to have over 30 years: 61.8 (which is 15.45 times more than the average among all vehicles)

The latest edition of the Porsche Panamera handles more like a sports car than a sedan, one review says. However, a rear middle seat is optional rather than standard.

1. Tesla Model Y

Number of recalls this model is expected to have over 30 years: 62.4 (which is 15.6 times more than the average among all vehicles)

The new Tesla Model Y accelerates well, but critics say you will feel the heat under the car’s glass roof.