If you’re in the market for a new or used vehicle, there’s a lot to consider! Maybe you’re interested in a luxury sports vehicle, or perhaps you’re searching for the perfect vehicle upgrade for a growing family. Whatever the case is, there’s certainly no shortage of elements to consider. Before you start trying to commit to a particular model or brand to purchase, you’ll want to be sure you’ve gathered all of the relevant information needed to help you make the right choice
One good way to help you decide on a vehicle is to make a list of your desired preferences, which you can then compare and contrast against different models to see how they rank. While everyone’s preferences and desires will look unique, some common elements to consider when purchasing a new vehicle to purchase include:
- Your lifestyle
- Your hobbies
- Your family size
- Your commuting needs
- Your desired accessories and aesthetic
- How reliable your vehicle is
When it comes to choosing a car, reliability is one of the most important factors to take into account. After all, your car is what takes you to and from your work, takes you on road trips, and gets you where you need to go! When you don’t have a car that is reliable, it can seriously disrupt your life and limit the places that you go.
Read this article to learn more about how car reliability works, key elements to look for, plus all of the top reliable car brands!
How do car reliability ratings work and who does them?
There are a number of elements and other data that reflect your vehicle’s dependability and how smoothly it runs. Let’s take a look at them below:
1. Historical data
Historical data is used to inform consumers on how reliable certain car brands and models are. Both car manufacturers and independent organizations (like Consumer Report and J.D. Power) gather data regarding vehicle performance and reported issues, which is then used to measure how brands stand up to the test of time. This data is especially valuable for consumers when naming decisions regarding their next vehicle purchase.
2. Consumer surveys
Consumer surveys provide an opportunity for consumers to let manufacturers know how vehicles are running, meeting their needs, as well as voice any potential concerns they might have. These consumer surveys are typically conducted by organizations such as Consumer Reports and J.D.
Typically, consumer surveys cover common aspects of driveability such as:
- Engine performance
- Transmission durability
- Electrical system reliability
- Overall satisfaction with the vehicle
3. Expert evaluations
Besides consumer reports and historical data, industry experts and the opinions of engineers also help assess a car’s reliability. Through extensive reviews and testing, these professionals can analyze potential weaknesses or areas of concern.
4. Recall and warranty data
One critical indicator of potential issues with a brand or model’s reliability is frequent or extensive recalls issued by manufacturers. A high number of recalls or warranty claims can indicate potential reliability issues, so it’s generally wise to avoid vehicles.
What are common problems that affect car reliability?
Now that we’ve covered some of the key things that provide insight into how reliable a vehicle is, let’s take a look at some of the most common problems that can affect a car’s reliability. Understanding these issues can help you make informed decisions when it comes to the vehicle brand and model that you select.
Here are some common car reliability issues to watch out for:
1. Your engine
Your car’s engine is one of, if not the most, critical parts of your vehicle—so make sure that it’s a reliable one! Common engine problems include:
- Issues with cylinder misfires
- Oil leaks
- Worn-out timing belts or chains
- Overheating
2. Engine cooling failures
Another common problem with many cars and their engines is the engine cooling system. Typically, issues that occur include:
- Leaks in the radiator or hoses
- A malfunctioning thermostat
- A faulty water pump
- Manufacturing problems
3. Your transmission
Transmission problems can immediately affect your car’s reliability and performance. Some of the most common issues are slipping gears and delayed shifting. Sometimes issues can also arise due to a lack of maintenance, fluid leaks, or manufacturing defects.
4. Your drive system
Your drivetrain can experience wear and tear, whether it’s a traditional drivetrain or an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. The usual components affected include:
- Axles
- Differentials
- Transfer cases
5. The electric motor
If your car is electric or hybrid, the electric motor plays a central role in propulsion. Common issues include:
- Motor overheating
- Controller failures
- Issues with regenerative braking systems
6. The EV battery
Over time, your electric vehicle’s battery can degrade, which can lead to problems like reduced driving range and performance, which can significantly affect its reliability. Factors such as extreme temperatures, frequent fast charging, and age all contribute to battery wear. The good news is that most EV manufacturers provide warranties for their EV batteries to address potential reliability concerns.
7. Fluid leaks
Fluid leaks can be a troublesome issue, as well as difficult and time-consuming to address. The typical fluids that leak usually are:
- Oil
- Coolant
- Transmission fluid
- Brake fluid
If your vehicle is leaking, this can indicate other underlying mechanical problems, such as with seals, and hoses. Fluids are an important part of keeping your vehicle running smoothly and preventing damage and wear and tear to it.
When your fluids leak out of your car, it not only can hurt the environment around you, it also means your car isn’t receiving what it needs to run properly. This can create further reliability concerns and mechanical issues down the road if not addressed.
8. Paint and trim problems
While paint and trim problems don’t directly affect the mechanical reliability of your car, they can definitely impact your vehicle's aesthetic appeal and even the resale value. Typical issues include:
- Peeling paint
- Rust formation
- Cracking interior trim
Car reliability ratings by brand
Certain brands are also renowned for their reliability and have proven themselves to be durable and trustworthy by years of delivering consistent vehicles over and over. These brands are loved by both industry reviewers and consumers alike thanks to their safety, driveability, and overall appeal.
Let’s take a look at some of the top reliable brands out there, their history, and exactly what they have to offer below:
1. Lexus
Lexus is an iconic luxury vehicle brand owned and operated by the Japanese car manufacturer Toyota. Lexus was officially founded in 1989 where it quickly rose to fame, surprising many industry experts with the impact it made on the existing luxury vehicle market. Today, Lexus is famous for its exceptional customer service, amazing performance, and attention to detail.
Lexus's rich history is marked by innovation and success, including models such as:
- The LS sedan
- The RX crossover
- The IS sport sedan
Lexus offers a wide range of both hybrid and performance-oriented vehicles, which help it appeal to a diverse range of drivers. The brand’s undeniable commitment to customer service over the years has earned it much customer loyalty—and a reputation for reliability.
Lexus utilizes rigorous quality control standards throughout the development, testing, and manufacturing process. While other luxury car brands have historically struggled to maintain a high level of reliability and vehicle performance, Lexus has remained consistent in their commitment to creating vehicles you can trust. In fact, in 2023 Consumer Reports revealed that Lexus was one of the most reliable brands on the market. In fact, the Lexus GX was ranked second overall with ninety-one points.
2. Toyota
Toyota is the head company of Lexus, and is one of the best-known Japanese automotive manufacturers out there. The company was founded in 1937 by Kiichiro Toyoda and has since grown into an international brand that is one of the most successful selling car manufacturers of all time.
Since its humble beginnings, Toyota has introduced truly groundbreaking models that have revolutionized the car market. These vehicles include:
- The Corolla
- The Camry
- The Prius
- The Land Cruiser
- The 4Runner
When it comes to innovation, the Prius is a particularly significant milestone, as it popularized hybrid technology and paved the way for the popularity of hybrid and other environmentally-friendly car options.
Much like how the company manages the Lexus brand, Toyota adheres to rigorous industry standards and testing, carefully developing each new model and perfecting it before release. This careful approach to their vehicles means that Toyota consistently ranks among the top automotive brands. In 2023, Consumer Reports ranked Toyota as the most reliable car brand on the market, with the Corolla Hybrid claiming their top spot with a whopping ninety-three points.
4. Acura
Acura was launched in 1986, largely for the North American market. The brand is owned and operated by Honda and was the first ever Japanese luxury automotive brand. In its early years, it strongly rivaled other top luxury vehicle brands, including BMW and Mercedes-Benz. In the 2000s, popularity once again surged, with the brand gaining more and more recognition for its innovative technology and sporty driving dynamics.
Some of Acura’s most outstanding vehicle models include:
- The Acura Integra
- The Acura Legend
- The Acura MDX
- The Acura TLX
Acura's strong commitment to quality and reliability has been consistently recognized by industry experts and consumer surveys, though recent models have typically scored lower than some of their earlier vehicles. While Acura vehicles offer good engine performance and fuel efficiency, some newer models have experienced issues with newly implemented transmissions and infotainment systems in their sedans. However, according to Consumer Reports, older models are typically above average when it comes to reliability.
5. Mazda
Mazda is another great option that provides a balance of smooth driving and reliable performance. Mazda was founded in 1920 in Japan as a cork production factory and didn’t start officially producing vehicles until eleven years later in 1931. Despite this dramatic change to the company’s original direction, it grew into a globally recognized car brand. Mazda is renowned for its innovative engineering and stylish design, including the Wankel rotary engine. Today, the brand's dedication to performance and "Zoom-Zoom" philosophy continue to resonate with car enthusiasts worldwide.
Some of Mazda’s best-selling models including:
- The Mazda 3 Hatchback
- The Mazda 3 Sedan
- The Mazda CX-30
- The Mazda CX-50
- The Mazda CX-5
- The Mazda CX-90
When it comes to reliability, Mazda is consistently ranked high by Consumer Reports and other industry experts. The brand was given an eighty-three out of one-hundred, placing it up among other top reliable vehicle companies. Mazda's focus on simplicity and efficiency in its vehicle designs contributes to fewer potential points of failure, producing reliable vehicles that consumers can count on.
6. Honda
Honda is another top vehicle brand that consistently ranks high both in terms of affordability and reliability. This Japanese automotive manufacturer was founded in 1946 by Soichiro Honda, where it first produced motorcycles. In the 1960s, Honda dipped into the vehicle market, where the brand Quixote found success with the T360 mini-truck, and the S500 sports car. Even now, Honda continues to be a global leader in the automotive market, renowned for its commitment to engineering excellence and technological advancement.
Some of Honda’s most successful vehicle models include:
- The Honda Civic
- The Honda Accord
- The Honda CR-V
- The Honda HR-V
Honda’s vehicles have consistently received acclaim for their fuel efficiency, and performance by critics and consumers alike. They’re also known for being especially durable, as well as relatively simple and affordable to repair, which adds to their reliability. Honda’s large range of offerings include many options for engine technology, safety features, and environmentally friendly vehicles such as hybrid and electric. Consumer Reports also consistently rates Honda highly in their annual reports regarding reliability, reflecting the brand's trustworthiness and decades of manufacturing experience.
7. Subaru
It is impossible to talk about reliable car brands without mentioning Subaru. Subaru is another top Japanese automobile manufacturer that was founded in the 1950s. The name "Subaru" is derived from the Japanese name for the Pleiades star cluster, which reflects the company's five original divisions coming together to form the brand.
Subaru has a dedicated following and has gained prominence for its innovative use of all-wheel drive (AWD) technology. It’s an especially popular choice for drivers who desire a vehicle capable of handling various terrains and weather conditions (such as for hiking or camping). The brand is also known for its commitment to sustainability, which adds to its appeal to many people.
Some of the most popular Subaru models include:
- The Subaru Legacy
- The Subaru Outback
- The Subaru Impreza
- The Subaru Crosstrek
- The Subaru Forester
In terms of reliability, Subaru consistently ranks very well, both in industry assessments and consumer surveys. Per Consumer Reports, Subarus have consistently ranked in the top ten of all manufacturers in reliability surveys. The brand frequently earns high marks for safety, and long-term dependability, making it an appealing choice for anyone who desires a reliable vehicle choice.
8. BMW
Another popular luxury vehicle brand is BMW, whose name is short for Bayerische Motoren Werke AG. The brand is a renowned German automobile manufacturer celebrated for its luxury vehicles and powerful performance. The company was founded in Munich in 1916 and initially produced aircraft engines. After transitioning to motorcycle production and eventually automobile manufacturing in the 1930s, they established themselves as a top luxury car brand.
BMW’s famous line of dynamic vehicle models includes:
- The BMW X Series
- The BMW i EV
- The BMW M
BMW is recognized for its iconic design language and advanced technology features, which are paired with powerful engines. According to Consumer Reports, the vehicle brand consistently ranks well even among the elite automotive brands, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and innovation. While certain models in the past have experienced issues, BMW continues to strive for improvement in reliability by implementing quality control measures and strong customer service.
9. Audi
Audi is another German automobile manufacturer offering both luxury and reliability. The brand’s history goes all the way back to the early 20th century. Today it is a subsidiary of Volkswagen, another iconic German brand. Audi’s logo represents the merger of four pioneering automobile manufacturers: Audi, DKW, Horch, and Wanderer, with four distinct rings in a row.
Throughout its history, Audi has been at the forefront of automotive engineering, introducing groundbreaking technologies such as quattro all-wheel drive and TDI diesel engines. With a focus on precision engineering and cutting-edge design, Audi has earned a reputation for producing high-quality vehicles with performance and sophistication.
Some of Audi’s best-loved models include:
- The Audi A4
- The Audi Q5
- The Audi Q7
- The Audi Allroad
- The Audi R8
According to Consumer Reports, nearly every BMW model ranks highly regarding performance and high-quality design. It should be noted that BMW’s electric vehicles consistently scored lower than their traditional alternatives, suggesting that BMW still has a ways to go when it comes to EVs. However, the consistency of their gas vehicles means that consumers can typically expect a rewarding ownership experience characterized by superior craftsmanship and reliable performance.
10. Kia
Last but certainly not least on this list of vehicles is Kia. Founded in South Korea in the 1940s, Kia Motors Corporation has become one of the world's largest automakers. Like many car brands, the company was originally focused on manufacturing other machinery besides cars in its early days. After switching away from steel tubing and bicycle parts, Kia began producing automobiles in the early 1970s. The brand now offers everything from sedans and SUVs to hybrids and electric vehicle options.
Some of Kia’s most recognizable models are:
- The Kia Rio
- The Kia Sportage
- The Kia Carnival
- The Kia Soul
- The Kia Forte
- The Kia K5
Kia is a very reliable and affordable brand, with significant strides in quality being made in recent years.
The brand has consistently earned favorable ratings from organizations such as Consumer Reports and J.D. Power for its commitment to quality and dependability. The brand's reputation for reliability has contributed to its growing popularity among consumers seeking affordable yet dependable transportation options. J.D Power ranks the brand as the third most reliable car brand, thanks in part to their industry-leading warranty coverage, which includes a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. With a high degree of affordability, an amazing warranty, and uncompromising performance, it’s easy to see why Kia is known for its reliability.
Shop the top reliable cars now at Echo Park Automotive
If you’re looking for the most dependable car brands, look no further than EchoPark Automotive! We carry all of the top reliable cars and brands, making it easy to find a vehicle that’s the perfect for your needs and lifestyle! Whether you’re searching for power and reliability or a luxurious design with careful craftsmanship, you can be sure that we’ve got the right car for you. Our team is committed to providing each of our customers with an amazing car buying experience that is caring, but never pushy.
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