BUSINESS

Survey: Recalls make Americans less satisfied with cars

Tom Krisher
Associated Press

Detroit — Americans are less happy with their cars and trucks than at any time in more than a decade, mainly because they’re sick of recalls.

That’s the main finding from the 2015 American Consumer Satisfaction Index, an annual survey of nearly 4,300 people. The survey found that satisfaction with cars and trucks dropped for the third straight year to the lowest level since 2004.

Last year automakers recalled a record 64 million vehicles for problems such as exploding air bags and ignition switches that can unexpectedly cause engines to stall. Rising prices also contributed to the frustration. Edmunds.com says car prices are up 11 percent since 2010 and hit a record $32,932 in July.

The index’s automobile satisfaction score this year dropped nearly 4 percent to 79 out of 100.