S.D. Grady
Vehicle History Writer
About
Sonya is a vastly experienced journalist who loves to share her passion for everything automotive. You can usually find her at the track covering NASCAR, taking a test drive, or drooling over the latest models at the local auto show.
About
Sonya is a vastly experienced journalist who loves to share her passion for everything automotive. You can usually find her at the track covering NASCAR, taking a test drive, or drooling over the latest models at the local auto show.
Articles
The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee earned six recalls, five investigations, and more than 1,500 complaints. Most concerning is faulty wiring inside the Totally Integrated Power Module that can cause a wide...
Dec 14, 2021
The classic reliable commuter car keeps its trim options simple with five combinations and a navigation/safety package available only on the EX-L. Base LX packs in a decent mix of comforts, while the...
Dec 6, 2021
A light-duty pickup built from the ground up with contractors and homeowners in mind. Its four trims run from the ordinary with black bumpers and steel wheels to luxurious leather interiors and LED...
Dec 3, 2021
The light-duty Ram pickup built a reputation as a rough and rugged truck customized for the job, farm, or weekend road trips. The 2011 Ram 1500’s six trims enhance its utility and range from the...
Nov 30, 2021
Affordable midsize car is generally known to be among Nissan’s more reliable vehicles. But as the 2011 Altima continues to age, its CVT becomes more problematic. Also, a variety of other minor...
Nov 24, 2021
Affordable commuter car features a base trim with no radio, but it quickly piles on the amenities with 14 package combos. The best options are the Premium packages that offer Bluetooth, hands-free...
Nov 24, 2021
The 2017 Subaru Forester is a boxy SUV designed to pack in a load of gear and clamber over graveled trails. But as a commuter car, its underpowered engine and lackluster interior may disappoint the...
Nov 18, 2021
The 1.8L engine and 60kW electric motor provide just enough muscle for daily commutes while earning 48 mpg combined. Very few problems make the 2011 Toyota Prius a reliable and efficient ride. Key...
Nov 17, 2021
The 2011 Toyota RAV4 offered two engines for all three trim levels. The standard four-cylinder delivers all the muscle needed for the compact SUV while maintaining respectable fuel economy. The V6...
Nov 12, 2021
The 2011 Chevy Silverado has a reputation for ruggedness and versatility. But even this best-selling truck comes with a few problems, like a V8 with excessive oil consumption and a faulty ignition...
Nov 11, 2021
A tough truck with autonomous safety systems and class-leading capability, the 2019 Ford F-150 also comes with a few significant problems with its V8 engine and 10-speed transmission. Key Points The...
Oct 29, 2021
Several issues held the Hyundai Sonata back in 2006, but many pre-2011 models are reliable cars overall. However, 2011 to 2015 models have had issues, including engines that may seize, faulty airbags,...
Oct 27, 2021
The Ford Explorer has a reputation for hauling heavy loads and big families, but not every year produced a reliable ride. Some particularly bad years, 2002, 2013 & 2016, suffer from faulty...
Oct 20, 2021
The Ram Pickup is a dependable and durable light-duty truck. But some of its worst years, 2011, 2014 & 2019, are known for pervasive electrical problems, a shaky transmission, and cam and lifter...
Oct 13, 2021
Honda’s CR-V boasts ample cargo space, a reputation for safety, and a well-appointed interior. However, the compact SUV’s worst years feature faulty airbags, a shaky transmission, and a...
Oct 12, 2021
The 2017 Toyota Corolla is a best-selling small sedan packed with autonomous braking, intelligent cruise control, and good fuel economy. Though smart and affordable, it struggles to impress with its...
Oct 5, 2021
The 2018 Chevrolet Cruze offers sleek style and a modern ride, but limited engine options make it dull compared to other compacts. While less costly, entry trims lack options, leaving LT and above the...
Sep 20, 2021
The Dodge Dart was an attractive and efficient ride, but it had some serious issues with its transmission and engine. Its 2013 debut year alone registered over 1,200 complaints with the NHTSA. Key...
Aug 30, 2021
The Toyota Highlander is one of the most popular mid-size SUVs in the U.S., and it has excellent safety ratings to back up its reputation. But, like any vehicle, the Highlander has a few recalls that...
Aug 17, 2021
The Audi Q8 debuted in 2019 as a sleek crossover SUV loaded with features and ability. Depending on how it’s configured, pricing ranges from $56,000 to $140,000 on the used market. Key Points...
Aug 13, 2021
The 2018 Kia Optima is a sporty sedan with a good range of features at an affordable price. Find trims, specs, reviews, and buying tips for this family-friendly sedan in our latest buyer’s...
Aug 2, 2021
The Ram 1500 is a benchmark for durability, tech, performance & industry-leading features. Learn why some years of the Ram 1500 are much better–and some worse–than others. The Dodge...
Jul 29, 2021
The Hyundai Elantra debuted in the U.S. as a four-door compact car for the 1992 model year. Here’s your comprehensive buying guide for the 2018 Hyundai Elantra. Find trims, pricing, reliability,...
Jul 19, 2021
If you opt for one of the new or used electric or hybrid vehicles, will you save money? Is the fuel economy really worth your investment? Or should you just go with the tried and true gasser? Are you...
Jun 28, 2021
The Jeep Wrangler has been mastering rocky trails and sandy dunes for decades. But is it comfortable to drive over thousands of miles? Like many drivers across America, you love the classic rugged...
Jun 23, 2021