Top 10 Passenger Vehicles with the Highest Recall Rates in Automotive History

Throughout automotive history, there have been several significant and highly publicized vehicle recalls. 

Automakers typically initiate recalls upon identifying issues with their models; registered owners are informed via mail within 60 days after manufacturers notify the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). After a recall is issued, vehicle owners must visit a dealership to have the necessary repairs completed.

To ensure your vehicle's safety, you can consult the NHTSA database for up-to-date recall information. Staying informed is crucial to maintaining your car's safety and reliability.

While many of the most recalled vehicles historically are commercial (such as trucks, vans, and buses), the following list highlights the top 10 most recalled passenger vehicles of all time, as reported by Craft Law Firm. 

1. Ford F150

Ford leads as the car manufacturer with the highest number of recalls—they announced 67 recalls in 2022 alone—and their F150 model tops the list with 115 recalls. Cumulatively, Ford has initiated 3086 unique recalls, each impacting numerous vehicles. The automatic transmission is frequently cited as the primary issue. In February 2023, specific 2022–23 F-150s and other models were recalled due to a loose bolt in their transmissions.

2. Buick Regal 

Although Buick ranks 24th among brands with the most recalls, their Regal model holds the second position with 97 unique recalls to date. The Buick Regal has frequently faced problems related to seat belts, service brakes, and rear suspension. Notably, a brake recall occurred last year, impacting nearly 24,000 Regals from 2018–2020 (Buick stated no crashes or injuries were linked to the issue [PDF]). 

3. and 4. Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee both rank among the top five most recalled passenger vehicle models, with 97 and 83 unique recalls, respectively. These Jeeps have encountered issues ranging from electrical systems to service brakes. 

In March 2023, Jeep also recalled their Wrangler model due to a fastener issue that, in the event of a crash, could lead to a potentially hazardous fuel leak. Overall, Jeep ranks 29th in terms of total unique recalls.

5. Ford Explorer

In January 2023, Ford issued a recall for hundreds of thousands of Explorers due to problems with their backup cameras. This model has accumulated 83 unique recalls, with rear suspension issues being a frequent concern.

The most significant problem with the Ford Explorer occurred in the 1990s and early 2000s when reports surfaced about Firestone tire treads separating, causing the vehicle to roll over. Ford attributed the issue to the tire design, while Firestone pointed to the Explorer's design. Millions of tires were recalled, the long-standing partnership between Ford and Firestone dissolved, and the Transportation Recall Enhancement, Accountability, and Documentation (TREAD) Act was enacted. According to The New York Times, “At least 271 deaths and over 800 injuries were linked to accidents involving the tires and Explorer S.U.V’s.”

6. BMW X5

The X5 ranks as the sixth most recalled car model with 81 unique recalls, while BMW stands as the fifth most recalled car manufacturer. BMW’s recalls often involve engine cooling systems and airbags. Despite this, Consumer Reports rated BMW as the third most reliable car brand, with a reliability score of 65/100. Current BMW recalls can be found on their website.

7. Subaru Legacy

While Subaru is not known for frequent recalls, their Legacy model has accumulated 77 unique recalls. Common issues include the airbag inflator module, fuel system, and other components. In 2022, a recall was issued for the automatic transmission due to the risk of the clutch engaging before the drive chain was fully secured. Current recalls can be checked on the Subaru website.

8. Dodge Charger

Dodge ranks fourth among car manufacturers with the most recalls, and the Charger model alone has seen 76 unique recalls, frequently due to issues with the automatic transmission.

In late 2022, Dodge advised owners of 2005–2010 Chargers and other models to stop driving their vehicles immediately due to a problem with Takata airbags. The company strongly urged drivers to address the issue before resuming use. Approximately 276,000 Dodge vehicles were impacted by this recall.

9. Ford Mustang

While Ford leads in total recalls, the Mustang ties with the Dodge Charger at 76 unique recalls. Common problems include airbag malfunctions and cooling system issues. In summer 2022, a software glitch affecting features like the backup camera and traction control prompted a recall. Earlier that year, Ford also recalled over 300,000 Mustangs due to a backup camera defect.

10. Chevrolet Suburban

Chevrolet ranks second in total unique recalls, having issued 2127 recalls over the years, with the Suburban accounting for 74 of them. The most frequent issue involves the airbags, particularly the inflator module. 

Chevrolet has also faced recalls related to service brakes and transmission issues. As part of General Motors, Chevrolet's recalls can be accessed on the GM website.