Reliability is the car’s ability to continuously perform without breaking down, making the driver confident by avoiding unexpected repairs and loss of time. Reliability is critical when choosing your next ride, whether it is a sleek sedan, an efficient SUV, or even your friendly hybrid. But how do you know which brands you can trust?
- Survey Says: Reliability Rules: Consumer Reports, the independent product testing expert, surveyed more than 330,000 vehicle owners to determine which car brands are the most reliable. They tested the performance of engines, in-car electronics, and everything else.
- Hybrid Takes the Lead: Hybrid cars take centre stage when it comes to being the most reliable, with Lexus taking the cake. Yes, you heard that right. So, if it is a hybrid, the name to remember is Lexus.
- Insights From The Experts: But wait, there’s more. The automotive research firm iSeeCars analyzed 12 million used vehicles to determine which cars have the best long-term staying power. And guess what? Their rankings are similar to the Consumer Reports rankings. So, there is something for everyone, whether it is American classics, European luxury, or Japanese efficiency.
- Make Reliability Your Priority: Stability has to be at the top of your list when looking for your next set of wheels. And with the insights from Consumer Reports and iSeeCars, you’ll know you are making an intelligent choice. Stay tuned as we jump into the world of the most dependable car brands of 2024. Trust us; you won’t want to miss it.
10 Most Dependable Car Brands 2024 Ranked for Reliability and Value
1. Lexus
According to Lexus Europe Newsroom, the results, which assessed 32 brands and 178 different models up to five years old, showed that Lexus achieved an incredible 98.3 percent score. This score reflects the number of problems reported, the time required to fix them, and the cost of repairs.
Integrity is undoubtedly an essential concern for every car manufacturer. Interestingly, luxury cars have more problems than mainstream models. However, this is not a characteristic that all luxury brands share. Amongst those few very reliable luxury brands is Lexus, which is seen by many for its high authenticity.
Lexus offers reliable models, such as the RX 350, a luxury SUV with comfort and advanced technology features; the ES 350, a sedan known for its smooth ride and safety features; and for environmentally friendly drivers, Lexus presents the UX 300e, an all-electric compact SUV that melds luxury and sustainability.
2. Porsche
According to Porsche North Scottsdale, a Porsche will last 150,000 miles or approximately ten years in ideal conditions. Many owners can extend their car’s life more than this time if properly cared for, usually more than 250,000 miles.
Porsche has gained a reputation for its race-winning performance, track-tested design, and driver-focused comfort. However, durability is the core feature enabling one to enjoy their ride daily. Leading-edge design and powerful performance are only excellent if they keep coming through. Fortunately, Porsche is also equal to the task of reliability.
Some models, such as the 911 and 718 Boxster, offer sleek exteriors, while others offer a luxury interior with high-quality materials. The Macan and Cayenne SUVs blend bold designs with spacious, tech-savvy cabins. They also provide various customization options, including white or light-coloured interiors for models like the Taycan and the 911. Panamera and Taycan sedans mix electrification with legendary athletics and elegance.
3. BMW
According to J.D.Power, BMW (190 PP100) ranks third in reliability, further solidifying its reputation for quality and dependability. BMW is a famous luxury brand known for its German engineering, which initially started with aircraft engines before coming into automobiles. Today, BMW’s rank is good when it comes to stability, with too many high-tech functions. They boast a high safety rating, excellent fuel efficiency, and a perfect mix of sporty and luxurious features.
Manufactured by one of Germany’s most significant automobile giants, this electric SUV exudes cutting-edge technology and style and is made with refined powertrain performance. With its distinctive interior and exterior design, the iX marks itself as one of the best environmentally conscious drivers could own. Packed with advanced infotainment systems and premium materials, every ride assures comfort and exhilaration.
4. Honda
Based on an average rating across 345 models, Honda received a reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.0, better than any other 32 major auto manufacturers. The average annual repair cost for Honda owners is around $428, and most make only 0.3 visits to the repair shop every year.
Dependability in the automotive sector is unparalleled with Honda. Honda vehicles have earned a reputation for dependability, making them dear to drivers around the world. From the elegant Accord to the highly functional CR-V to the reliable Civic, Honda has a number of varied models catering to customers’ needs on many fronts: performance, safety, and solidity.
5. Toyota
Toyota is one of the most trusted brands among drivers across the country. It ranks highest in the mass market segment, scoring 147 PP100. Every Toyota is a masterclass in top-notch safety features, fuel efficiency, and increased passenger and cargo space. From the reliable Camry and the versatile RAV4 to the rugged Tacoma, whatever the drive may be for you, Toyota has precisely what you need. Beyond performance, Toyota brings peace of mind with years of proven dependability, rigorous testing, industry-leading quality control, and warranty coverage.
And also, get ready for your next wild adventure with the all-new 2025 4Runner. Whether you’re conquering desert dunes in a Baja-inspired TRD Pro or embarking on an overland expedition in a Trailhunter fully loaded with gear, Toyota ensures you’ll embrace the wild with confidence and style.
6. Chevrolet
Chevy has done well in the reliability department these past few years, notching three “Dependability” awards in 2021 and an impressive six awards in 2022 from J.D. Power. The brand also secured its spot as the year’s third most reliable vehicle brand. Though Chevy’s permanence rating is at 3.5 out of 5.0, ranking 20th out of 32 car brands, the brand has improved steadily over the years.
With an average annual repair cost of $649, Chevy is above average in ownership costs. From when William C. “Billy” Durant founded the Chevrolet Motor Company in November 1911 to General Motors’s acquisition on May 2, 1918, the company has grown a long way. As 2021 marks its 110th anniversary, it is undoubtedly a classic American automobile brand.
7. MINI
The MINI Cooper mixes timeless British charm and modern innovation engineered by BMW. With its trademark agility and spirited performance, the MINI is offered in a range to suit many tastes. As MINI rolls out its first all-electric Countryman, buyers can expect the cars to last long while keeping the environment in mind. Having built up a reputation for integrity and premium build, MINI is an attractive option for most drivers with a flair for style and a thirst for reliability.
Although MINI Coopers may generally be reliable, it is the opposite. The MINI Cooper Coupe can run for about 225,000 miles on average, and good maintenance is required to prolong the vehicle’s life. Based on all models, MINI has an outstanding reliability history based on leading-edge engineering, robust quality, and stringent quality assurance measures. High customer satisfaction ratings endorse the stability of MINI and its dependability.
8. Subaru
Subarus excel in its high level of safety, affordability, and dependability, accompanied by respectable fuel efficiency and average repair costs. A Subaru is trustworthy whether you’re an amateur or a seasoned driver. This Japanese brand is associated with being practical and dependable, with top reliability rankings. Take the Subaru Outback, a flexible model with generous cargo space, moderate off-road capability, and advanced tech features. It gets a solid credibility score, which is bound to keep repair bills below average.
Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system builds superior traction and stability, complemented by spacious interiors, intuitive controls, and top-notch visibility. Collaborations with Toyota on new-age technology are a good reason why Subaru continues to excel to this day, regularly ranking high in reliability surveys. Subaru means fewer trips to the repair shop and just average-cost repairs, and it is a true partner in solidity.
9. Nissan
Nissan scores a very strong reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0 and stands 9th out of 32 car brands. An average annual repair cost of $500 indicates slightly above-average ownership costs. The key factors behind Nissan’s reliability ranking include an average of 0.3 repair trips per year and a 13% probability of a severe repair being required.
The most popular models offered in the market are vehicles under the Nissan and Infiniti brands, with the former Datsun brand being retired. Some models, like the Altima and Maxima, are known for dependability. Models like the Nissan Versa are a low-priced, efficient, and reliable car.
As of April 2018, Nissan was the world’s largest producer of all-electric vehicles, with the Nissan LEAF also ranking among the best-selling pure electric cars. Strong in reputation for reliability and driven by innovation, Nissan continues to be one of the giants in the industry.
10. Kia
Kia’s dependability exceeds most expectations and reflects dramatic improvement from its early years in the United States market almost 20 years ago. Today, the overall RepairPal reliability rating is an impressive 4.0 out of 5.0, moving it to third out of 32 car brands surveyed.
According to J.D. Power, the 2024 Kia Telluride and Sportage receive rave reviews for their incredible 83 out of 100 points for a “Great” reliable ride on the road. Well-known for its quality and innovation, Kia continues to gain a position at the top of the automotive industry, offering drivers style and dependability on the road.
Renowned for its quality and innovative design, Kia continues to wow the world with its stylish and dependable fleet of vehicles. Keeping up with technology and modernity, Kia offers everything from compact cars to three-row SUVs—all equipped with several advanced features.
Take, for instance, the Kia Optima, which has a premium Bose sound system to enhance your ride. Whether you prefer a sleek design, efficiency, or technology, Kia has the vehicle for every kind of driver. Industry-leading warranty coverage reassures, and Kia invests in research and development to ensure it long-term. By adopting new technologies and partnering with trusted suppliers, Kia remains a premier choice for those who want both reliability and performance on the road.
Which Car Brand is the Most Dependable
Lexus retained the industry-leading position with an outstanding 135 PP100 score. Toyota moved up to second overall with a 147 PP100 score. In addition, Toyota ranked highest among mass-market brands based on improvements reported in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study.
Lexus attributes its vehicles’ high-reliability rating to stringent quality control measures. It also keeps maintenance costs low through durable parts that seldom need repair or replacement.
Solidity reigns supreme with all the trimmings and options, from sleek sedans to practical SUVs and eco-friendly hybrids in tow. From Consumer Reports, the results of the most reliable car brands in 2024 show drivers where to make wise choices. Lexus is definitely on the top of the heap, maintaining the number one position with an unbelievable score in its reliability.
Coming close to it is Toyota, with outstanding improvement in its dependability. The reassurance of veracity from these two brands becomes essential for every driver negotiating the sea of options. Whether it be Lexus and all its style and sophistication or Toyota with its undying dependability, the choice is clear: dependability for a smoother ride. Using minute quality control and a pledge to the principle of longevity, they set standards for the best. So, as you start looking for that perfect vehicle, remember to focus on loyalty and trust in the most reliable car brands.