Top 10 most dependable car brands according to J.D. Power 2026 study

We have rounded up the top ten most dependable car brands based on a recent study by J.D. Power, ranking vehicle reliability based on the number of problems per 100 vehicles.

Lexus IS 300h front grille

Image: Lexus

Global market research and consumer insights company J.D. Power has recently released its 2026 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, which identifies the most dependable vehicles based on overall problems per 100 vehicles during the first 90 days of ownership over nine problem categories. The 2026 results show a two-point increase in problems per 100 vehicles (PP100), resulting in an industry average of 204 PP100. In other words, A score of 204 PP100 means that, on average, owners reported 2.04 issues per car. A lower score indicates better vehicle quality, and vice versa.

The 2026 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study covers 184 specific problem areas throughout nine vehicle categories: climate, driving assistance, driving experience, exterior, features/controls/displays, infotainment, interior, powertrain, and seats. The 2026 study is based on an extensive sample audience of 33 268 first owners of the 2023 model-year vehicles after three years of ownership.

Top 10 most dependable car brands

Lexus topped the list with an average of 151 PP100, also claiming the title of most dependable model with the IS, followed by Buick and Mini with 160 and 168 PP100, respectively. Cadillac, Chevrolet and Subaru took fourth, fifth and sixth place with 175, 178 and 181 PP100, respectively. Porsche and Toyota followed closely, scoring 182 and 185 PP100, respectively, while Kia and Nissan round off the top 10 with 193 and 194 PP100, respectively.

  1. Lexus – 151 PP100
  2. Buick – 160 PP100
  3. Mini – 168 PP100
  4. Cadillac – 175 PP100
  5. Chevrolet – 178 PP100
  6. Subaru – 181 PP100
  7. Porsche – 182 PP100
  8. Toyota – 185 PP100
  9. Kia – 193 PP100
  10. Nissan – 194 PP100

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The post Top 10 most dependable car brands according to J.D. Power 2026 study appeared first on CAR Magazine.


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