According to J.D. Power's 2014 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, owners of 3-year-old vehicles (2011 model year) report more problems than did owners of 3-year-old vehicles last year.
Overall dependability is determined by the number of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100) during the past 12 months, with a lower score reflecting higher quality. The new average is 133 PP100, a 6% increase from 126 PP100 in 2013.
“Automakers are continually looking for ways to improve fuel economy, which is a primary purchase motivator for many consumers, particularly those buying smaller vehicles,” said David Sargent, vice president of global automotive at J.D. Power. “However, while striving to reduce fuel consumption, automakers must be careful not to compromise quality. Increases in such problems as engine hesitation, rough transmission shifts and lack of power indicate that this is a continuing challenge.”
Here are the highest-ranked models in each segment, with the winner listed in bold:
Overall dependability is determined by the number of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100) during the past 12 months, with a lower score reflecting higher quality. The new average is 133 PP100, a 6% increase from 126 PP100 in 2013.
“Automakers are continually looking for ways to improve fuel economy, which is a primary purchase motivator for many consumers, particularly those buying smaller vehicles,” said David Sargent, vice president of global automotive at J.D. Power. “However, while striving to reduce fuel consumption, automakers must be careful not to compromise quality. Increases in such problems as engine hesitation, rough transmission shifts and lack of power indicate that this is a continuing challenge.”
Here are the highest-ranked models in each segment, with the winner listed in bold:
- Sub-compact: Honda Fit, Kia Rio, Nissan Versa
- Compact: Chevrolet Volt, Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic
- Premium compact: Lexus ES, Lexus IS, Lincoln MKZ
- Sport compact: MINI Cooper
- Midsize: Toyota Camry, Buick LaCrosse, Honda Accord
- Premium midsize: Lexus GS, Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan/wagon, Lincoln MKS
- Full-size: Buick Lucerne, Toyota Avalon, Ford Taurus
- Premium full-size: Cadillac DTS and Lexus LS (tie)