Most and least reliable sporty cars

Each year, car reliability trends begin surfacing as we look at data by brand and car type, with periodic spikes common around redesigns and new technology. As is often the case, the muscle and otherwise sporty cars are seeing much reliability activity in the latest Consumer Reports Annual Auto Survey.

Our analysts note that this is a particularly volatile segment, where changes are not uncommon year after year. In our latest reliability data, we see that there are 11 out of 21 sporty cars with average-or-better predicted reliability, whereas last year, there were 13 out of 16, suggesting that sporty car reliability has shifted into reverse. (See our guide to car reliability.)

Last year, there were only three models that fell below average for predicted reliability. With new models and more data on some less-popular cars this year, we have 10 subpar models for this car type. Not good.

The American muscle cars are having an off year, with the Dodge Challenger and Ford Mustang V8 coming up below the statistical average. The "average" rating is within 20 points of either side of the zero line. Even with that generous margin, the Chevrolet Camaro and Mustang V6 are just barely in the average zone that permits us to recommend them.

The Camaro had a tough year in 2011 that continues to shape its reliability prediction. Body hardware continues to be an issue; this trouble area includes windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, trunk, mirrors, seat controls (movement and temperature), seat belts, sunroof, and convertible top. Explaining its score, the Mustang has suffered from two years of "transmission minor" woes with the V8 powertrain, along with some suspension issues.

The Challenger has plummeted from a strong showing last year of better-than-average predicted reliability to worse-than-average now. For the 2012 survey, it was hurt by problems in squeaks & rattles, body hardware, brakes, and audio system.