While popular, the tiny Smart Fortwo has had a few reliability issues since its introduction here in 2004, such as problems with the air conditioning, turbocharger, airbags, and transmission. Chris Chase has all the details and relevant links.

Commonly reported problems with Audi’s second generation flagship A8 sedan include overheating, radiator leaks, faulty air suspension, and worn suspension bushings, reports Contributing Editor, Chris Chase. Like most big German cars, it can be expensive to maintain, he says.

Consumer Reports lists the MKV Jetta's overall used vehicle reliability as average in general, reports Contributing Editor, Chris Chase. "Diesel models tend to fare a little better, while 2.0T models fall a little below that line," he says.

The compact, six-passenger Mazda5 micro-van received an average used vehicle reliability rating for 2007-2009 models, while 2006 Mazda5s earned a below-average rating from Consumer Reports. Chris Chase outlines the potential trouble areas with links to owner’s discussion forums.

Based on the Toyota 4Runner, the Lexus GX 470 has had issues with a clunky driveshaft, leaky radiator, and burnt out turn signal bulbs, but is still rated above average by Consumer Reports, says Contributing Editor, Chris Chase.

A twin to the Ford Ranger, the compact Mazda B-Series pickup has changed little in the past 12 years. The two-wheel drive (RWD) model with a manual transmission is the most statistically reliable, reports Contributing Editor, Chris Chase.

The Subaru Forester’s reliability has been spotty, the most serious problem being head gasket troubles with the non-turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, reports Contributing Editor Chris Chase. Foresters were also available with a turbocharged engine which offers perkier performance, he says.

The Nissan Quest minivan has had quite a few reliability problems, but "none of its common flaws are super-serious," says Contributing Editor, Chris Chase. And most of its competitors have also experienced problems, he notes.

A full-size rear-wheel drive sedan, the G8 was imported from Australia. Problems have been few so far, but Contributing Editor Chris Chase notes that there have been a couple of Technical Service Bulletins about the suspension and driveshaft.

Though it was one of the best cars to come out of a General Motors division in some time, the first-generation CTS "hasn't held up terribly well, reliability-wise," says Contributing Editor, Chris Chase.