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Automakers with the Most Recalls in 2025: Ford Leads the Pack (Again)
When it comes to vehicle recalls, 2025 is already shaping up to be a wild year. Some automakers are off to a rough start with multiple high-impact recalls, while others seem to be staying clear of trouble—for now. Let’s take a closer look at which automakers are facing the most scrutiny from regulators and what drivers need to know.
Ford Is the Undisputed Recall Leader in 2025
Last year, Stellantis unseated Ford as the automaker with the highest number of recalls, issuing 71 in total. In 2025, Ford Motor Company is once again leading the industry in total recalls, according to NHTSA reporting. As of May 15, Ford has issued 51 recalls, affecting over 1.8 million vehicles. That’s more than double the number of vehicles recalled by the next automaker on the list.
It’s been the year of the seatbelt recall for Ford. Models like the Explorer, Aviator, Expedition, and Navigator have all faced recalls for seatbelt-related issues that could compromise passenger safety.
Here are the Ford vehicles with the most recalls in 2025 (so far):
- 2020–2023 Ford Explorer
- 2020–2023 Lincoln Aviator
- 2021–2024 Ford Bronco Sport
- 2021–2024 Ford Bronco
- 2021–2024 Ford Maverick
Check if your Ford vehicle is included in recalls.
Volkswagen Group: 14 Recalls, and One Weird One
With 14 recalls affecting 441,587 vehicles, Volkswagen Group isn’t having an easy 2025 either. Several major recalls have affected both Volkswagen and Audi models.
One of the strangest recalls this year? The all-electric Volkswagen ID.BUZZ was recalled because its third-row bench seat is too wide for the number of seatbelts provided. That’s…not something we see every day.
Top VW models with the most recalls:
- 2021–2024 Audi Q5
- 2021–2024 Volkswagen ID.4
- 2022–2025 Audi Q4 e-tron
- 2025 Volkswagen ID.BUZZ
Check if your Volkswagen vehicle is included in recalls.
GM: Big Recall Numbers, Big Trucks Affected
General Motors has issued 11 recalls so far, affecting 773,033 vehicles. A massive recall of nearly 600,000 full-size trucks and SUVs equipped with the 6.2L V8 engine is the biggest driver of that number.
The reason? A defect in the connecting rod and crankshaft could lead to engine damage—or worse, complete failure.
GM models with the most recalls:
- 2021–2024 Cadillac Escalade
- 2021–2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- 2021–2024 Chevrolet Suburban
- 2021–2024 Chevrolet Tahoe
- 2021–2024 GMC Sierra 1500
- 2021–2024 GMC Yukon
Check if your GM vehicle is included in recalls.
FCA (Chrysler): 11 Recalls and Jeep Troubles
FCA US (now part of Stellantis) also lands on the list with 11 recalls, covering 140,197 vehicles. The most notable is the recall of 63,000 Jeep Cherokees that may lose drive power due to a faulty power transfer unit.
Models most affected by FCA recalls:
- 2017–2019 Jeep Cherokee
- 2023–2025 Alfa Romeo Tonale
- 2023–2025 Dodge Hornet
- 2025 Ram 1500
Check if your Jeep, Ram, Dodge, or other FCA vehicle is included in recalls.
Mercedes-Benz: 9 Recalls and EV Fire Risks
So far in 2025, Mercedes-Benz has issued 9 recalls for just 37,563 vehicles. Some were fairly routine, like a recall for S-Class brake fluid leaks, but others were more concerning—like fire risks related to the high-voltage batteries in some electric models.
Vehicles impacted include:
- 2021–2023 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
- 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class
- Select electric Mercedes models
Check if your Mercedes-Benz is included in recalls.
Honda: Software Glitches and Engine Trouble
Honda has also logged 9 recalls this year, affecting 469,289 vehicles. The most significant issue? A software glitch in the fuel injection system that may cause engine stalling or a complete loss of power in newer Honda Pilot and Acura MDX models.
Honda models with the most recalls:
- 2014–2020 Acura MDX
- 2025 Acura MDX
- 2023–2025 Honda Pilot
Check if your Honda is included in recalls.
Automakers With the Fewest Recalls So Far in 2025
Not every brand has had a tough year. A few automakers have managed to keep their recall numbers remarkably low so far in 2025.
Here are the major automakers with the fewest recalls through mid-May:
- Mazda: 1 recall
- Subaru: 1 recall
- Nissan: 3 recalls
- Kia: 4 recalls
- Tesla: 4 recalls
Keep in mind that some brands like Tesla may issue software-based recalls that don’t require a service visit. Still, fewer recalls generally signal stronger quality control—or fewer reported issues.
Concerned About a Recall? Here’s What to Do
If you’re worried your vehicle might be affected by one of this year’s recalls, don’t wait. Check your VIN for free using the NHTSA Recall Lookup Tool.
And if you’re shopping for a vehicle and want to avoid future headaches, be sure to research recall history, reliability, and maintenance costs with CarEdge Research. Whether you’re buying used or new, making an informed choice starts with knowing the facts.
Which 2026 Cars and Trucks Are Getting More Expensive? See the Full List
If you’re waiting to buy a 2026 model hoping for better prices, you might want to reconsider. A growing number of 2026 vehicles are debuting with higher MSRPs—some subtly, others sharply. Only a small fraction of 2026 models are out now, but the list is growing each day. We analyzed base and fully-loaded MSRP changes from 2025 to 2026, and the trends are clear: price hikes are back.
By the Numbers: 2026 Car Price Trends
We analyzed recently announced pricing for 15 2026 models, and compared MSRPs to their 2025 counterparts. Here’s what we found:
- 60% of models saw an increase in MSRPs.
- The average base MSRP increase was about $691, or 1.4%.
- For fully-loaded trims, the average increase was $1,126, or 1.8%.
While these numbers might not seem dramatic, they’re not pocket change either.
The Biggest Price Hikes for 2026
Some models saw bigger-than-average bumps. Here’s a look at the Top 5 increases by base MSRP:
- 2026 Honda Passport: 5.1% price increase
- 2026 Kia Sportage: 4.3% price increase
- 2026 Genesis GV70: 3.6% price increase
- 2026 Genesis Electrified GV70: 3.3% price increase
- 2026 Cadillac CT5: 2.0% price increase
For a broader look at 2025 car prices, here are the MSRP changes for every 2026 model announced as of early May 2025. Prices included mandatory destination fees:
| Make | Model | 2025 Base MSRP | 2026 Base MSRP | Base Price Change | 2025 Top-End MSRP | 2026 Top-End MSRP | Top-End Price Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW | 4-Series | $52,325 | $52,675 | 0.66% | $74,025 | $76,225 | 2.89% |
| BMW | 5-Series | $59,875 | $59,875 | 0.00% | $74,575 | $74,575 | 0.00% |
| BMW | 8-Series | $92,875 | $92,875 | 0.00% | $117,175 | $117,175 | 0.00% |
| BMW | i5 | $68,275 | $68,275 | 0.00% | $71,275 | $71,275 | 0.00% |
| BMW | M4 | $80,875 | $81,275 | 0.49% | $96,295 | $97,375 | 1.11% |
| Buick | Encore GX | $27,395 | $27,295 | -0.37% | $32,895 | $32,795 | -0.30% |
| Cadillac | CT4 | $36,490 | $37,095 | 1.63% | $48,790 | $51,495 | 5.25% |
| Cadillac | CT5 | $49,090 | $50,095 | 2.01% | $58,490 | $59,095 | 1.02% |
| Chevrolet | Equinox | $29,995 | $29,995 | 0.00% | $34,395 | $34,395 | 0.00% |
| Chevrolet | Trailblazer | $24,495 | $24,395 | -0.41% | $29,095 | $28,995 | -0.34% |
| Genesis | Electrified GV70 | $68,400 | $70,700 | 3.25% | $73,750 | $76,800 | 3.97% |
| Genesis | GV70 | $47,650 | $49,435 | 3.61% | $69,850 | $71,545 | 2.37% |
| Honda | Passport | $43,850 | $46,200 | 5.09% | $49,920 | $53,900 | 7.38% |
| Kia | Sportage | $28,785 | $30,085 | 4.32% | $39,685 | $40,985 | 3.17% |
| Toyota | Crown | $42,575 | $43,050 | 1.10% | $56,125 | $56,600 | 0.84% |
What’s Driving the Price Hikes?
There are a few major forces behind the 2026 price increases. One of the biggest is the impact of tariffs. While the full consequences haven’t hit just yet, many automakers are already adjusting their pricing strategies in anticipation of higher import costs, particularly for vehicles manufactured outside the U.S.
Another factor is the inclusion of new technology and features in 2026 models. Whether it’s upgraded safety features, enhanced driver-assistance systems, or the latest battery tech in EVs, these improvements often come with a higher price tag.
Electrification hasn’t been cheap for legacy automakers like Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis. As OEMs look to make up for massive capital investments in EV powertrains, even ICE vehicle prices are pushed higher.
Inflation and supply chain pressures are still in play, too. Costs for raw materials, parts, and labor have continued to rise, and automakers are passing those expenses on to consumers.
Finally, pricing changes may be strategic. Rather than implementing massive hikes all at once, automakers could be gradually increasing MSRPs to soften the blow—and avoid backlash—from buyers and headlines.
What This Means for Buyers
For car buyers, the biggest takeaway is simple: don’t assume that newer is better. In many cases, 2025 models are nearly identical to their 2026 replacements. As the year progresses, more 2025 models will be advertised with generous incentives, and better negotiation opportunities will follow.
See how CarEdge can help you save thousands of dollars, and eliminate the stress of car buying.
Prices Are Creeping Up — Act Accordingly
2026 may be shaping up as the year of the quiet price hike. If you’re shopping for a new car this year, pay close attention to MSRP changes—especially for models imported from tariff-affected regions.
🔎 Want help navigating your next purchase? Connect with a CarEdge expert and shop with confidence.
10 Smart Ways to Prepare Your Car for Summer Driving
Summer is nearly here, and for many, that means more time on the road. But before you hit the highway, take a moment to get your car summer-ready.
From rising temps to sudden downpours and road trip miles, summer driving puts a unique kind of stress on your vehicle. The good news? A few simple steps now can prevent big problems later—and save you money along the way.
Here’s how to prepare your car for the summer season, in order of what matters most.
1. Check Your Tire Pressure (and Adjust for Heat)
As temperatures rise, so does your tire pressure—about 1 PSI for every 10°F increase. Driving with overinflated or underinflated tires not only affects fuel efficiency but also increases the risk of a blowout.
What to do:
- Check tire pressure in the morning when tires are cool. If your car has a digital tire gauge, it’s easy to monitor it often.
- Compare the readings to your car’s recommended PSI (found inside the driver’s door jamb).
- Adjust as needed and check regularly throughout the season. Driving with overinflated tires not only leads to uneven tire wear, it can be dangerous.
Seasonally checking your tire pressure is especially important for drivers in regions with both extremes: hot summers and cold winters.
2. Inspect Tire Tread and Rotate if Needed
Rain is common in many regions during summer, and worn-out tires make hydroplaning far more likely. Take this step extra seriously if there’s the slightest change you’ll be on the road during a thunderstorm this summer.
What to do:
- Perform the penny test: Insert a penny into your tread with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see all of it, it’s time for new tires.
- Look for uneven wear. If spotted, rotate your tires or schedule an alignment.
- Make sure your tires are rain-ready—especially if you’re expecting wet weather where you live.
3. Inspect and Replace Windshield Wipers
Your wipers take a beating year-round, and they’re your first line of defense in a sudden summer thunderstorm. If they’re skipping, streaking, or chattering, it’s time to swap them out.
What to do:
- Replace wipers if they’re cracked, dry, or over 6–12 months old.
- Upgrade to hybrid or summer-specific blades for improved performance in heat and rain.
- Don’t have your wipers replaced at the dealership. Doing so will cost you much more than you should be paying.
4. Check and Recharge Your A/C System
There’s nothing worse than discovering your A/C isn’t working on a 90-degree day. Catch issues now before you’re stuck sweating in traffic.
What to do:
- Run your A/C on full blast—if it’s not blowing cold, it may need a recharge or repair.
- Listen for strange noises and sniff for musty odors, which could mean mold or leaks.
- Have a trusted mechanic inspect the system if you notice anything off.
5. Replace Cabin and Engine Air Filters
A clean cabin air filter improves airflow and air quality, especially during allergy season. And your engine air filter? It helps your car ‘breathe’ better and run more efficiently.
What to do:
- Replace the cabin air filter (usually behind the glove box) if it’s dirty or hasn’t been changed in the last 12,000–15,000 miles.
- Swap out the engine air filter too—it’s a quick DIY job that can save you $50–$100 compared to shop prices.
6. Check and Top Off All Fluids
Summer driving puts extra strain on every part of your vehicle—and your fluids are your car’s lifeblood.
What to do:
- A good first step is to check your vehicle service schedule in your maintenance manual. You can usually find this in your glovebox, but they’re also available for free online.
- Check your coolant (essential for preventing overheating), oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Auto shops and dealership service centers often offer coupons for these types of service checkups.
- Top off or flush anything that’s low or dirty.
- Choose bug-resistant washer fluid for better visibility on long trips.
7. Test Your Battery
Heat kills batteries faster than cold does. If your battery is on the older side, summer is when it’s most likely to give up.
What to do:
- Get your battery tested at an auto parts store or use a multimeter. Many auto parts stores (like Auto Zone, Advance Auto Parts, and O-Reilly) will check your battery for free.
- Clean corrosion off the terminals with a wire brush and baking soda solution.
- It’s a good idea to replace the battery if it’s more than 3–5 years old, especially if you expect to do plenty of driving this summer. Make sure to recycle it wherever you purchase your new battery.
8. Inspect Belts and Hoses
Belts and hoses are often overlooked, but they’re vulnerable to cracking and swelling in hot conditions.
What to do:
- Look for fraying, soft spots, or visible cracks.
- Squeeze hoses gently—if they feel mushy or brittle, replace them.
- Address any squealing noises ASAP; that’s often your serpentine belt asking for attention.
- Not sure what you’re looking for? Ask your trusted auto repair shop to have a look for you.
9. Pack a Summer Emergency Kit
Even the best-prepared vehicles can hit a snag. A stocked emergency kit can turn a bad day into a manageable one.
What to include:
- Water, non-perishable snacks, sunscreen
- Jumper cables and flashlight
- First aid kit
10. Consider Window Tinting for UV and Heat Protection
Window tinting isn’t just for looks—it keeps your interior cooler and prevents your dashboard and seats from sun damage.
What to do:
- Choose high-quality ceramic or UV-blocking tint.
- Check your local laws for legal tint percentages.
- You’ll reduce A/C usage, stay more comfortable, and extend the life of your interior materials.
Bonus: Protect Yourself from Costly Breakdowns with an Extended Warranty
Planning extra miles this summer? Don’t let one breakdown ruin your vacation—or your budget.
Why it matters:
- Repairs like a failed A/C compressor or radiator leak can cost thousands.
- If your manufacturer warranty has expired, this is the perfect time to consider protection.
- CarEdge offers extended warranty coverage that’s transparent, affordable, and fairly priced—often saving you hundreds compared to dealers.
👉 Get your warranty quote in just a few clicks
Don’t Let Summer Catch You Off Guard
Your car doesn’t need a full overhaul to be summer-ready—but it does need your attention. A few minutes of maintenance can make a huge difference in your driving experience, fuel efficiency, and repair bills. Summer is also a great time to buy or lease a car. CarEdge’s consumer advocates can help you save more and stress less in 2025. We’re simply here to help!
Is It Better to Buy Or Lease a Car in 2025?
Choosing between buying and leasing a car remains one of the biggest decisions for car shoppers. In 2025, that question is even more relevant due to evolving market conditions, rising interest rates, and shifting manufacturer incentives. With insights from CarEdge Co-Founder Ray Shefska, we break down the pros and cons of buying versus leasing to help you navigate today’s car market with confidence.
Understanding Leasing in 2025
Leasing has historically been a popular option for drivers who want lower monthly payments and the ability to upgrade to a new car every few years. After a decline in popularity during the pandemic, leasing is once again on the rise in 2025—and for good reason.
How does leasing a car work? Leasing a car means you pay to use a vehicle for a set period—typically 2 to 4 years—by making monthly payments, but you don’t own it. At the end of the lease, you can either return the car, buy it for a predetermined price, or lease a new one.
Estimate your monthly lease payment with this new and improved Car Lease Calculator:
Leasing is increasingly the better deal for many shoppers in today’s market. With interest rates still elevated and new car prices impacted by global tariffs and supply challenges, leasing offers a more affordable path to driving a new vehicle. For many, lease programs are the best way to bypass the high financing costs associated with buying.
There’s also a strategic reason why automakers are doubling down on lease offers: it keeps customers engaged with the brand. When lease terms end, customers return to the dealership, increasing the chance of a repeat sale and building long-term loyalty.
As CarEdge’s Ray Shefska notes, many manufacturers are now working hard to increase lease penetration due to the benefits for both dealers and customers. While leasing once made up around 30% of new car transactions, that number fell to 17–18% during the downturn. In 2025, manufacturers are rolling out some amazing lease offers to reverse that trend. For buyers, this means now is a great time to take a serious look at leasing.
Important Note: Be aware that advertised lease deals typically do not include taxes and fees. If you’re not planning to pay these upfront, your actual monthly payment could be significantly higher than what’s promoted.
The Benefits of Leasing a Car
Leasing in 2025 presents several notable advantages:
- Lower Monthly Payments: In a high-interest environment, lease deals often feature better terms than financing, making it possible to drive a better-equipped vehicle for less per month.
- Access to Newer Technology: Leasing allows you to drive the latest models every few years with the newest tech, safety features, and fuel efficiency improvements.
- Flexibility: When your lease ends, you can walk away, upgrade, or even purchase the car if you’ve grown attached.
- Inventory Turnover Benefits: As leases come to an end, dealerships benefit from a steady influx of quality used vehicles, improving options in the used market.
The Benefits of Buying a Car in 2025
Buying remains a solid option—especially for drivers who keep their cars for the long haul or who rack up high mileage annually. Here are the core benefits of purchasing:
- No Mileage Limits: Unlike leases, buying a car comes with no mileage restrictions, which is ideal for commuters and road-trippers.
- Long-Term Financial Value: Every loan payment builds equity. Once the loan is paid off, you own the car outright—no more monthly payments.
- Freedom to Modify: Ownership gives you the freedom to customize or modify your car as you wish, without lease restrictions.
- Stability Over Time: If you plan to keep your car for 5+ years, buying can offer better value than leasing. But if you’re considering selling after just a few years, be cautious—depreciation hits hard, and the math may not work in your favor.
Making the Right Choice in 2025
Whether to buy or lease a car in 2025 comes down to your personal goals, driving habits, and financial situation. Ray advises, “Customers should check the manufacturer website and see what kind of sales and lease offers are available in their area before heading to the dealership.” He also recommends comparing insurance quotes across models before finalizing your choice.
👉 See This Month’s Best Leasing and Financing Offers
When Does Buying Make Sense?
- You drive a lot and want to avoid mileage limits.
- You plan to keep the car for 5+ years.
- You want to build equity and eventually eliminate monthly payments.
- You like the freedom to modify or customize your car.
👉 Compare the best-value cars and trucks with CarEdge Research [Free]
When Does Leasing Make Sense?
- You want lower monthly payments and more car for your money.
- You like driving a new vehicle every few years.
- You don’t want to worry about long-term maintenance costs.
- You want to avoid high interest rates and take advantage of lease-specific deals.
- You’re okay returning the car in original condition and staying under mileage limits.
👉 Check Out Our Complete Guide to Leasing in 2025
What It All Boils Down To
In today’s market, with leasing incentives improving and financing rates remaining high, leasing is often the smarter move—especially if you’re seeing limited financing deals. Just be sure to read the fine print on lease offers and understand how upfront taxes and fees impact the monthly cost.
By doing your homework and staying informed, you can make the decision that best fits your lifestyle and budget in 2025’s fast-changing auto landscape.
Looking for help negotiating your car lease? Learn more about CarEdge’s white-glove Car Buying Services, now more affordable than ever.