Most Common 2025 Car Faults Reported by Aussie Drivers

Most Common 2025 Car Faults Reported by Aussie Drivers

Introduction: A Rising Concern in Modern Mobility

Despite rapid advancements in car tech and safety, 2025 has brought a surge in reported vehicle faults across Australia. While many of today’s cars are smarter than ever, the added complexity has given rise to new, often frustrating problems for owners—from EV battery hiccups to unpredictable infotainment bugs.

This blog dives into the most reported car issues by Aussie drivers this year, shedding light on which faults are most common, which brands are being flagged, and what proactive steps you can take to stay ahead of costly breakdowns.

1. Battery and Electrical System Failures

Still the Most Reported Fault in 2025

Despite improvements in battery design and power management systems, electrical issues remain the top reported problem for both combustion and electric vehicles.

Typical Complaints:

• Flat 12V batteries in newer hybrids and EVs

• Faulty alternators

• Electrical system warning lights

• Malfunctioning start-stop systems

• Battery management system (BMS) software glitches

Notable Brands Affected:

• Toyota hybrids: Known for 12V auxiliary battery drain

• Hyundai Ioniq 5 & EV6: Some early reports of system resets

• Ford Ranger: Battery issues linked to accessory overload

Prevention Tips:

• Regular battery health checks

• Avoid overloading with aftermarket accessories

• Always check for BMS software updates

2. Infotainment System Glitches and Connectivity Issues

Smart Cars, Dumb Systems?

The surge in touchscreen and voice-control infotainment systems has created an entirely new category of complaints.

Common Issues:

• Frozen screens

• Bluetooth disconnects

• Wireless Apple CarPlay lag

• Reboots while driving

• Navigation systems crashing

Most Affected Models:

• MG4 EV: Early software patch required for infotainment lag

• Volkswagen ID.4: Connectivity and GPS lag

• Mazda CX-5: Touchscreen freeze under hot cabin conditions

What Drivers Say:

"It's like my car needs a reboot more often than my laptop!" – Sydney MG4 owner

Fixes:

• Dealer software updates

• Factory reset of system

• Keeping firmware current

3. Transmission and Gearbox Problems

CVTs and DCTs Still Causing Headaches

With many manufacturers embracing Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) and Dual-Clutch Transmissions (DCTs), driver complaints have escalated.

Reported Problems:

• Gear hesitation

• Rough or jerky shifting

• Noisy transitions

• Transmission overheating

Culprits:

• Nissan X-Trail: CVT issues persist into 2025

• Hyundai Tucson DCT: Urban driving jerkiness

• Honda HR-V: Reports of sluggish acceleration

Solutions:

• Scheduled transmission fluid changes

• Avoid aggressive stop-start driving

• Dealer diagnostics for firmware recalibration

4. Brake System Faults

From Screeching Pads to Electronic Parking Failures

While not as widespread as others, braking system problems are becoming more common—especially with electronic systems and brake-by-wire tech.

Top Brake Issues:

• Squealing even with new pads

• Brake pedal fade under load

• Malfunctioning auto-hold and e-brake

• Uneven wear or warped discs

Reported on:

• Tesla Model Y: Auto-hold sensitivity issues

• Ford Everest: Rear drum squeal complaints

• Subaru Forester: Electronic parking brake not releasing

Owner Advice:

• Get brakes inspected every 10,000 km

• Use OEM pads for replacements

• Pay attention to dashboard brake warnings

5. Paint, Trim and Build Quality Issues

More Plastic, More Problems

With cost-saving measures and quicker production cycles, many vehicles show early signs of cosmetic degradation.

Typical Complaints:

• Fading paint, especially reds and blues

• Peeling clear coat on plastic bumpers

• Window trim rattles

• Loose panels or alignment gaps

Brands Facing Scrutiny:

• BYD Atto 3: Interior rattles and dash creaks

• Chery Omoda 5: Reports of flimsy trim

• Mitsubishi Outlander: Boot lining detachment

Long-Term Impact:

• Affects resale value

• Can reduce cabin comfort

• Makes a car feel older than it is

6. Air Conditioning and HVAC Faults

Hot Aussie Climate Meets Flaky Climate Control

A functional A/C system is a must in Australia, yet many new models are showing HVAC weaknesses.

Frequent Issues:

• Weak airflow

• Delayed cooling

• Cabin sensors misreading temps

• Foul smells from vents

Models with Recurring Complaints:

• Kia Seltos: Weak fan output in high heat

• Nissan Navara: Compressor faults

• Skoda Kamiq: Fluctuating cabin temps

Tips to Mitigate:

• Replace cabin filter annually

• Don’t blast max A/C right after engine start

• Run A/C weekly even in winter to maintain system health

7. ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) Failures

When “Smart” Safety Turns Dumb

Radar-based tech is now standard, but calibration errors and false alerts are frequent frustrations.

Reported Problems:

• Lane departure systems activating incorrectly

• Collision warnings triggering too early

• Adaptive cruise control errors

• Parking sensors giving false positives

Vehicle Types Affected:

• Electric vehicles with over-the-air updates

• SUVs with blind-spot monitoring and 360° cameras

• Hybrids with regen braking linked to ADAS

Tech Tangle:

Aussie drivers often report that ADAS faults are intermittent and tough to replicate at the dealership.

8. Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Errors

Smart Tyres Causing Dumb Alerts

TPMS sensors have become standard, but they’re not immune to quirks.

Common Gripes:

• Low pressure warnings when pressure is fine

• Fails to reset after tyre rotation

• Winter-to-summer temp swings triggering alerts

Key Tip:

Always use a calibrated manual gauge to confirm pressure before panicking.

9. EV-Specific Faults – Australia’s Emerging Pain Points

Learning Curve for First-Time EV Owners

With the rise of affordable Chinese EVs and new entrants like the BYD Seal and GWM Ora, many Australians are experiencing unique EV challenges.

Typical Complaints:

• Charging port failures

• Slow DC fast charging speeds

• Range discrepancy from advertised figures

• Glitches in regen brake tuning

Models with Recurring Mentions:

• BYD Dolphin: Underwhelming highway range

• MG ZS EV: Charging flap sticking

• Tesla Model 3 Highland: Sudden power limiter activation

10. Fuel System and Sensor Issues

Petrol & Diesel Cars Still Not Immune

Despite cleaner fuel standards and efficient engines, faults still arise.

Notable Problems:

• Failing oxygen sensors

• EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) clogs

• Fuel injector leaks

• Turbo lag or wastegate rattle

Brands Mentioned in Reports:

• Isuzu D-MAX: Diesel particulate filter (DPF) regen issues

• Mazda CX-30: O2 sensor triggering CEL (check engine light)

How These Faults Impact Resale Value

Frequent faults—especially when not fixed quickly—can significantly harm your resale value. Vehicles with documented repairs, recurring faults or software issues often attract lower trade-in prices and fewer private buyers.

Tips to Preserve Value:

• Keep detailed service records

• Act on warning signs early

• Don’t ignore infotainment updates

• Choose brands with strong support networks

The Rise of Software-Based Solutions

One noticeable 2025 trend is how many car issues are now fixed via software. Over-the-air updates (OTA) have become crucial, especially in EVs and high-tech ICE models.

However, not all brands are as quick or transparent in rolling out bug fixes. Tesla and BYD lead in OTA agility, while traditional brands like Honda or Mitsubishi still rely on dealer-based updates.

Conclusion: What Aussie Drivers Should Watch For

The most common 2025 car issues in Australia reflect a growing gap between mechanical reliability and software complexity. As vehicles get smarter, they also become more prone to tech failures—putting drivers in the awkward position of diagnosing issues with an app, not a wrench.

To stay ahead:

• Maintain regular servicing

• Stay alert to software recalls

• Educate yourself on brand-specific quirks

• Always report recurring issues under warranty

Being informed helps you make smarter car choices, avoid costly surprises, and improve long-term ownership satisfaction.