J.D. Power and Associates has released its annual survey of vehicle
dependability based on questionnaires sent to owners of 2002 model year vehicles. The list ranks vehicle brands by the problems their owners reported per 100 vehicles. The study measures problems experienced by original owners of 3-year-old (2002 model-year) vehicles. For consumers, the VDS offers
insight into the reliability and dependability of brands and specific models as they approach the end of a typical warranty period. The 2005 Vehicle Dependability Study is based on responses from 50,635 original
owners of 2002 model-year cars and light trucks.
Lexus dominated the 2005 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS). Lexus was the top nameplate for the 11th consecutive year and improved 14 percent over its
2004 VDS score. The Lexus LS 430 premium luxury sedan recored the
fewest problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) of any car in the study. The Lexus LS 430 earned a score of 90 PP100 making it the first model in VDS history
to receive fewer than 100 PP100. In the entry luxury SUV category, the RX 300 luxury utility vehicle was the top-performing model in its segment. The LS 430 received the premium luxury car segment award, and Lexus also received awards for its RX 300 (entry luxury SUV) and LX 470 (premium luxury SUV) models.
Porsche made the largest percentage improvement in its VDS score, while Hyundai had the largest reduction in problems reported by owners. Porsche, which ranked second among nameplates, improved 38 percent compared to 2004 —- a 91 PP100 improvement. Although still hovering below the industry average, Hyundai recorded a dramatic 115 PP100 improvement (31%).
Chevrolet captured the most segment awards, with the Prizm (compact car), Malibu (entry midsize car), S-10 Pickup (midsize pickup) and Silverado HD (heavy-duty full-size pickup) each earning an award in their respective segments. Ford received three segment awards, for the Thunderbird (entry luxury car), Windstar (midsize van) and E-Series (full-size van).
The nameplates faring the worst in the study were the Kia, Land Rover and MINI. The Kia, with a 397 PP100, received the worst ranking.
Overall, the automotive industry recorded an impressive 12 percent improvement in long-term vehicle quality, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2005 VDS study. At the industry level, manufacturers have made a considerable leap in quality, with improvements across all categories. The industry average improved 32 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) compared to 2004. The categories showing the most significant improvements in 2005 included ride, handling and braking; engine; and interior.
