Summary
- Lexus ranks highest in overall vehicle dependability, followed by Porsche and BMW for premium brands.
- Toyota ranks highest in the mass market segment.
- Major challenges include infotainment system problems and driver assistance alerts.
- More problems with electric vehicles compared to gas-powered and hybrid vehicles.
In its 35th year, the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Vehicle Dependability StudySM (VDS) has once again undertaken a comprehensive examination of 184 distinct problem areas spanning nine key vehicle categories.
From these latest findings, a concerning trend has been revealed: vehicle owners are facing decreased levels of dependability after three years of ownership. This decline is evident in the higher number of problems reported by owners and in the study; nearly two-thirds of the brands included have experienced increased levels of problems.
The industry average has risen by four problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) compared to the previous year, reaching 190 PP100 in 2024 from 2023 figures. Moreover, the rate of problem escalation between the 90-day mark and three years of ownership has surged to 17 percent, up by five percentage points from the 12 percent recorded in 2023.
3:25
The Secrets Behind Toyota’s Bullet-Proof Reliability
With some simple yet effective techniques, here’s how Toyota perfected the process of building the most reliable and dependable cars on the road
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including J.D. Power.
Top-Rated Brands
The J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Vehicle Dependability StudySM (VDS), released on February 8th, 2024 has comprehensively examined several specific problems across nine major vehicle categories:
- Climate.
- Driving assistance.
- Driving experience.
- Exterior.
- Features/controls/displays.
- Infotainment.
- Interior.
- Powertrain.
- Seats.
Lexus Tops The Charts Again For Second Consecutive Year
For the second time in a row, Lexus has reaffirmed its position as the pinnacle of vehicle dependability by securing the highest overall ranking with a score of 135 PP100. Among premium brands, Porsche emerges as a strong contender, securing the second position with a commendable score of 175 PP100. Meanwhile, BMW follows closely behind, clinching the third spot with a score of 190 PP100.
Toyota Claims The Top Spot In The Mass Market Segment
In the realm of the mass market segment, Toyota emerges as the frontrunner, securing the top position with a score of 147 PP100, thus reaffirming Toyota’s longstanding reputation for reliability and durability. Buick, celebrated for its combination of comfort, style, and performance, closely follows the leader. Meanwhile, Chevrolet and MINI share the third spot, each with scores of 174 PP100.
3:54
The Real Difference Between Toyota And Lexus
We take an up-close look at the similarities and differences between mainstream and luxury brands
Key Findings Of The 2024 Study
Main Challenges, Uncovered
Regarding the major issues, the following findings were uncovered:
- Infotainment System Troubles Persist: Despite vehicles becoming increasingly technologically advanced, owners continue to face significant challenges with infotainment systems. This category, scoring 49.1 PP100, stands out as the most problematic, surpassing even exterior concerns. The primary issues revolve around connectivity with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (6.3 PP100), followed closely by difficulties with built-in voice recognition (6.1 PP100).
- Driver Assistance Alert Frustration Intensifies Over Time: Issues concerning driver assistance system alerts have shown a notable increase between the initial 90-day ownership period and the three-year mark. One might assume that drivers would become accustomed to these alerts over time, but this does not seem to be the case. Lane departure warning/lane-keeping assistance and forward collision warning/automatic emergency braking are particularly problematic areas.
- Problems with Electric Vehicles Exceed Those of Conventional Models: Owners of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) face more problems compared to gas-powered and hybrid vehicles. BEVs top the list with 256 PP100, followed by PHEVs at 216 PP100. Hybrids fare better with 191 PP100, while gas vehicles perform even better at 187 PP100.
Quality Continues to Be Toyota’s Priority
Toyota Motor Corporation’s nine segment awards represent a notable achievement, reaffirming the brand’s position as a true leader in the automotive industry. This marks the highest number of segment awards received by any automaker since 2017 when Toyota previously secured 10 awards.
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Leading The Pack, Porsche Showcases The Most Substantial Reduction In Reported Issues
The top three brands demonstrating the most significant improvement in problem reduction are Porsche, with an impressive improvement of 33 PP100; followed by Mercedes-Benz, boasting a notable improvement of 22 PP100; and Toyota, showing commendable progress with a reduction of 21 PP100 in reported issues.
