Reliability rankings are published every year, and the same names tend to appear at the top. They are a good starting point, but they hide big differences between models of the same brand, so it pays to understand where the data comes from.
Where reliability rankings come from
The best-known sources in the US are Consumer Reports, which surveys its members about problems they had with their cars over the past year, and J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study, which counts problems per 100 vehicles after three years of ownership. Both rely on owner reports, so they include everything from engine failures to infotainment glitches that annoy owners.
Brands that usually rank well
Toyota and its luxury brand Lexus have been at or near the top of most reliability rankings for many years. Honda, Mazda and Subaru also tend to score well, and Hyundai, Kia and Genesis have improved strongly over the past two decades, backed by long warranties. Some premium European brands do well in specific models but are more uneven overall.
Rankings move from year to year, often because a brand launches a new model or technology that has early problems. A single bad year does not make a brand unreliable, and a good year does not guarantee every model.
Model matters more than brand
Inside every brand there are strong and weak models. A new turbocharged engine, a new type of gearbox or a first-year redesign can be less dependable than an older, proven design from the same maker. When you narrow your choice, look up the exact model year and powertrain, read owner forums and check the NHTSA recall and complaint database.
Reliability also depends on you
A reliable car that is never serviced will not stay reliable. Following the maintenance schedule, using the right fluids and fixing small problems early are what get cars to very high mileages. Our guides to maintaining your car for longevity and the best cars to own long term go further, and if you are buying second-hand, see whether a used car is a smart decision.
