Consumer Reports REVOKES its recommendation for Tesla's flagship Model 3

Consumer Reports has refused to recommend Tesla's flagship Model 3 sedan.

The firm said the Model 3 showed 'declining reliability,' citing persistent issues with paint, trim and electronics, which were reported as a result of a member survey.  

Consumer Reports conducts an annual reliability survey that covers 470,000 vehicles and solicits reviews from car owners on their satisfaction rates, among other things. 

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This latest data comes from that reliability survey, the results of which were published last October, as well as additional data collected from car owners over the summer who did not respond to the initial survey. 

'Consumer Reports can no longer recommend the newest Tesla - the Model 3 electric sedan - because members say they've identified a number of problems with their cars, including issues with its body hardware, as well as paint and trim,' the organization said. 

'The small sports sedan has been well received by its owners, getting top marks in CR's most recent owner satisfaction survey. 

'It has also largely lived up to its promise as a highly competitive sports sedan, earning a respectable road-test score, which puts it not far behind the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series.

'But reliability has been a weak spot for Tesla,' Consumer Reports added.

Tesla currently holds the top spot in Consumer Reports' list of brands that satisfy customers the most. 

Some brands like Tesla, which are known for having an almost cult-like following, may see reliability issues overlooked among their enthusiastic clientele. 

In the survey, Consumer Reports asked members to report any issues they've had with the vehicle over the last 12 months. 

The questionnaire covers 17 aspects of the car, ranging from

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