Beware of These 10 Vehicles With Known Paint Problems
Honda, Toyota, Hyundai, Tesla and Mazda are examples of car companies with well-documented paint problems. Some of them have been hit with class action lawsuits as a result.
Nissan is another one generating a number of complaints. Earlier this spring, The Car Guide learned that some 2020 Rogue owners are experiencing peeling paint around the front fenders.
- Also: Class Action Filed Against Hyundai Over Peeling Paint
- Also: Mazda's Crystal Red Paint Under Fire
While not the type of thing that will leave you stranded on the side of the road, paint issues can be quite frustrating, especially when they occur outside of the warranty period.
10 Vehicles Likely to Have Paint Problems
Using its massive database and feedback from owners, Consumer Reports has identified 10 vehicle models from the past decade that have had more paint problems than most.
“Unfortunately, when it comes to paint-related items, repairs need to be done by a professional, and the work is often expensive if you have to pay out of pocket,” says chief mechanic John Ibbotson.
The 10 highlighted models below are presented in rank order, starting with the one with the greatest paint-related problem rate among Consumer Reports members:
- Chevrolet Suburban (2015-2016)
- Hyundai Genesis (2015)
- Ford Explorer (2014-2020)
- Toyota Tundra (2022-2023)
- Tesla Model X (2018, 2022)
- Hyundai Sonata (2014-2018)
- Ford Taurus (2014)
- Ford Mustang (2014, 2016, 2018, 2020)
- Hyundai Elantra (2014-2019)
- Mercedes-Benz GLK (2014-2015)
What to Do With Paint Problems?
Whenever paint problems start to show up, including bubbling, fading and peeling paint, take pictures and track them, Ibbotson recommends. Work with your dealership if your vehicle is still under warranty. If not, go to a body shop where technicians will assess the problems and suggest options to improve the appearance and hopefully reduce the spread.
The best thing to do is to address paint problems as soon as they arise, otherwise they could spread and become increasingly expensive to fix. Also, keep an eye on recalls, technical service bulletins, warranty extension programs and class actions.