What is Americas most reliable car?

The 10 Most Reliable Car Brands 2022

by Thom Blackett CarGurus https://www.cargurus.com

New car reliability ratings should be near the top of your research list when shopping for a new vehicle. Predicted reliability can help you understand how much you’ll spend on maintenance and may help you get a feel for whether—or how often—you’ll be left stranded on the side of the road.

The good news is that new cars are more dependable than ever before, as automakers focus on build quality and longevity. Electric vehicles are becoming more common, too, so their reduced maintenance costs can be a huge benefit for some buyers.

To determine which ten automotive brands are deemed most dependable, we calculated the average ranking from the two leading authorities in this area: Consumer Reports and J.D. Power. The lower the average score across the two companies’ annual reports, the more reliable the featured brands’ cars have been reported to be. The results are based on feedback from vehicle owners, and updated annually to reflect reported issues and complaints. Those include glitches with infotainment systems to serious mechanical failures and everything in between.

While the automakers listed below fare better than their competitors in recent Consumer Reports and J.D. Power surveys, it should be noted few vehicles are completely trouble-free, especially if you’re shopping the used-car market. We recommend supplementing this list by researching common problems that may be associated with the specific year/make/model vehicle you’re considering purchasing, and potentially asking a trusted mechanic to inspect any cars you’re considering.

The 10 Most Reliable Car Brands 2022

Buick

Average reliability ranking: 3.5

It might be shocking to see Buick in the rankings ahead of stalwart automakers like Toyota and Lexus, but the long-running American company offers new cars that bring stellar predicted reliability ratings from J.D. Power, Consumer Reports, and others. The Buick Encore offers some of the best predicted reliability on the market today, and Buick’s other vehicles have garnered decent reviews for dependability. Buick is one of the most reliable car brands and it’s also quite generous with its warranty coverage. New models from the General Motors automaker come with a three-year/36,000-mile warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Lexus

Average reliability ranking: 3.5

Lexus, Toyota’s luxury brand, has consistently ranked at the top of reliability lists for years, and it typically outperforms other brands for dependability and longevity. The Lexus ES and Lexus GX are both class leaders, according to J.D. Power, and the brand’s vehicles rank highly for initial quality. Many people report that Lexus vehicles cost less to own over the long haul, though some say that parts and labor are more expensive than expected.

Lexus backs its vehicles with a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. The brand will release its first EV in the coming months, which will get an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty on hybrid, battery, and electric drivetrain components.

Toyota

Average reliability ranking: 4.0

Lexus made the list, so it should not be a surprise to see parent company Toyota right behind it in the reliability rankings. Over the decades, the Japanese auto giant has built its name on reliability, and its catalog is packed with reliable models in all categories. The Toyota RAV4 crossover, Camry, Corolla, 4Runner, and more all top their respective segments. The Tacoma is an excellent midsize truck and the Sienna holds it down in the minivan segment. The brand’s biggest outlier may be the Supra sports car, which relies on BMW components.

Toyota offers a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Electric models, such as the bZ4X, come with an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty on those components.

Hyundai

Average reliability ranking: 7.0

Just a few years ago, Hyundai was derided as a budget brand with unreliable vehicles, but things have changed. The automaker is now considered one of the best in the business, and it routinely turns in solid reliability scores from top publications. Additionally, Hyundai offers a solid ten-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty on all its vehicles.

Hyundai shifted from focusing on sales at all costs to delivering a focus on customer satisfaction and vehicle quality. As the number of reliability issues decreased, customer loyalty increased and the company began selling more cars. Hyundai’s luxury brand, Genesis, also ranks highly in both new and used car listings for reliability and value.

Mazda

Average reliability ranking: 7.0

Mazda wins with customers on value, quality, and upscale appeal. Its vehicles are also among the most fun to drive and refined models in their respective segments. Consumer Reports named Mazda its most reliable brand for 2022, and the company’s product offerings outrank the best in the business when it comes to repair costs and longevity. Even sports cars like the MX-5 Miata land well, and Mazda’s subcompact CX-30 gives Toyota and Honda headaches.

Mazda backs its vehicles with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The brand’s simple lineup likely helps it in the reliability arena, as there are no pickup trucks or minivans, only cars and minivans.

Mazda covers its vehicles with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The brand offers a limited-range EV, the MX-30, with an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty on electric components.

Porsche

Average reliability ranking: 10.0

It might be surprising to see a German car on this list, but the Porsche 911 is the Toyota Corolla of Europe, in case you didn’t know. That’s not exactly true, but the brand’s iconic sports cars and SUVs are among the most reliable vehicles in their segments. Porsche’s extreme focus on performance and quality has given its models a leg up on the competition, and it’s not uncommon to see Porsche vehicles running deep into six-figure territory without a hitch.

This feat is particularly impressive when you consider the amount of power that Porsche’s vehicles are putting down. Porsche offers a flat four-year/50,000-mile warranty for powertrain and basic coverage.

Kia

Average reliability ranking: 10.5

Like Hyundai, Kia has built a new identity and reputation for itself with high-quality vehicles and stellar warranty coverage. Vehicles like the Kia Telluride, Sportage, Sorento, and others have won buyers over with incredible standard features and materials, along with smart styling. Interestingly, it’s the brand’s cars rather than its SUVs, including the Soul, Rio, and Forte, that have earned the best reliability ratings in recent years.

Kia backs all of its vehicles with a massive 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile basic warranty. The automaker currently offers one EV in the U.S., in the EV6, and it’s also covered by a five-year/60,000-mile basic and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. The warranty coverage and predicted reliability are better than Nissan and Subaru, and outperform many luxury brands like Infiniti.

MINI

Average reliability ranking: 10.5

Surprise! The quirky British automaker, now owned by BMW, is relatively reliable. The corporate owners give it access to the German company’s engineering and quality know-how. The MINI Cooper manages better than average reliability ratings, and the company’s small catalog is decent overall. Getting around gripes for things like their fussy infotainment system and position as an automotive punchline, MINI’s vehicles are quite useful hatchbacks with good space and practicality. Do research on recent model years, however, as cars from some years are not as dependable as others.

MINI’s warranty extends to four years and 50,000 miles for both powertrain and basic coverage.

Chevrolet

Average reliability ranking: 12.0

Chevrolet is another turnaround story on our list, as the company has been the butt of many reliability jokes over the past few decades. The company’s vehicles rank well for reliability, though some are not the best on fuel economy (looking at you, full-size SUVs). Even so, Chevy bests rivals GMC, Ford, and Dodge in reliability, and it matches some high-end German automakers like Audi and Mercedes-Benz for quality and dependability. Even new Chevy models like the Corvette hit the ground running, and offer excellent predicted reliability over other American brands like Chrysler, Lincoln, and Ram.

Cadillac

Average reliability ranking: 12.5

Iconic American brand Cadillac can claim strong reliability to go with its excellent tech and comfort features. The company’s latest models are marvels of new tech, and vehicles like the Escalade offer stunning screens, responsive interfaces, and intuitive designs. The new electric Lyriq will be out soon, and the automaker will release an insane six-figure EV called the Celestiq in the next year.

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by Thom Blackett

Thom is a lifelong car nut, owning cars ranging from Datsuns to Mustang GTs and, currently, a Hemi-powered Ram 1500. He has spent the past 15 years writing objective, thorough vehicle reviews and consumer-focused feature articles for Autobytel.com, Kelley Blue Book, The Boston Globe, Cars.com, and other leading websites and publications.

40% of Americans Believe the Most Reliable Cars Are Built in the U.S. — Are They Right?

We often don’t consider the reliability of a car when it’s running properly. Instead, we just expect our car to continue working, and the more it does, the less we think about the possibility of a breakdown.

If your car has a history of breaking down, perhaps you are a little more cognizant of what constitutes a reliable vehicle. Does your car start smoothly or sputter? Does your engine overheat? How many miles has your car traveled without an issue?

Your answer to these questions may impact your perception of how reliable your own make and model is, but we wanted to take a more analytical approach.

What cars are most reliable, and does our perception of reliability have a basis in reality or is it conjecture? At The Simple Dollar, we wanted to answer this question, so we surveyed Americans about the countries they believe manufacture the most reliable cars and compared these responses to the 2019 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study from J.D. Power.

In this article

Patriotism vs. pragmatism in perceived auto reliability

Even though 54% of Americans believe Toyota and Honda are the most reliable car brands, both being Japanese-made vehicles, the majority (40%) of respondents still believe cars made in America are most reliable.

29% of Americans cited Japan as the country with the most reliable cars, and only 18% believe German-made are the most reliable.

South Korea, the country of origin for auto manufacturers like Hyundai and Kia, is believed to be most reliable by a mere 3% of Americans. Sweden, UK and Italy are believed to be most reliable by a combined 8% of Americans.

According to J.D. Power, however, the countries that manufacture the most reliable vehicles are in almost the exact opposite order. Looking at the geographical representation of car manufacturers above and below the industry standard for reliability, Germany had the most car brands above the industry standard.

Of the car brands that scored above the industry standard, Germany represents 35%. Japan, on the other hand, had 5 brands below the industry standard for reliability, but only 4 above.

Which car brand do you most associate with reliability?

We asked Americans which individual car brands they believe are most reliable, we included 6 top-selling brands in America including Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, Chevy, Toyota, Honda and Ford. Here are the brands perceived by Americans to be the most reliable:

32% of Americans think Toyota makes the most reliable cars

Toyota is often heralded for its efficiencies in manufacturing, including just-in-time inventory management and the empowerment of assembly line workers to make real-time decisions. It also has some of the most popular cars in the U.S. with 25% of the top 20 selling vehicles in 2018 manufactured by Toyota.

The top 20 makes and models of 2018 sold a combined 6.9 million vehicles. Toyota’s Rav4, Camry, Corolla, Tacoma, and Highlander models, comprised more than 1.5 million of these vehicles. This means the combined unit sales from Toyota accounts for 22% of the top-selling cars in the U.S.

22% of Americans believe Honda manufacturing is the most reliable

Americans also hold Honda, another Japanese auto manufacturer in high regard.

With 22% of Americans perceiving Honda to make the most reliable vehicles, it’s no wonder that Honda sold more than 1.4 million vehicles to Americans in 2018. Honda’s market share in the top 20 selling vehicles of 2018 is slightly less impressive at 15%. Their top-selling vehicles include the CR-V, Civic and Accord, which sold a combined 995,844 cars in 2018.

Only 16% of Americans associate Ford with reliability

Given the F-series pickup truck was the top-selling vehicle in 2018, with more than 900,000 trucks sold, it’s interesting that only 16% of Americans believe Ford manufactures the most reliable vehicles.

What countries a ctually manufacture the most reliable cars?

We analyzed J.D. Power’s dependability study to create a score for the brands with the most reliable manufacturing. J.D. Power’s study analyzes the number of issues per 100 vehicles, the higher number of issues per ca(r)pita (pun intended), indicates a less reliable manufacturer.

Given the industry baseline of issues per 100 vehicles, we analyzed the country of origin for each brand to determine the countries manufacturing vehicles with the most reliable cars compared to those with the least.

We discovered that most Americans believe cars made in the U.S. are more reliable than those manufactured in other countries, however according to J.D. Power’s dependability study, this is not true. In fact, more U.S. car brands fall below the industry standard of problems per 100 vehicles than above industry standard. When asked about individual car brands, Toyota and Honda were cited by Americans as the most reliable. According to J.D. Power, Germany manufactures the most reliable vehicles.

Methodology

Google Surveys was used to pose two questions to the general American population between October 7th and 9th, 2019. 2,000 Americans were surveyed about the countries they believe manufacture the most reliable vehicles and the individual brands they believe to be most reliable.

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Drew Page

Drew is a writer from San Diego, California. He is a student of history and loves to learn how things work at their fundamental level. Studying a wide variety of subjects on personal finance, from both a macro and micro perspective, allows him to simplify the subject matter and paint a higher resolution picture.

He loves learning, writing and playing music. When not surfing the web, you can find him actually surfing, in the kitchen or reading a physics book (of which he understands close to nothing).

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The 10 Most Reliable American Cars

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In a recent survey, the car buying experience was rated as one of the most stressful situations an adult can experience. Not only do you want to love your car’s appearance and color but knowing you aren’t buying a lemon is even more critical. Buying an unreliable car is one of the few times you can’t make lemonade after serving a lemon.

Because the car buying experience is so stressful, it’s helpful to go into the dealership with information ahead of time.

So, whether you are shopping online or physically going into a dealership, or even if you’re looking for a first car for your daughter or son, it is good to know what the top ten most reliable American cars are.

1. Lincoln Continental

If you can secure the funds, you can not do better than a Lincoln continental. This beautiful version of luxury was brought back in 2017. It was always one of the highest-rated luxury vehicles and, once again, still is. The base model will not sacrifice luxury for speed since it has a three hundred horsepower engine. The higher-end model has Four hundred horsepower.

2. Chevrolet Bolt

Electric cars seem to be the future of automobiles. So, the Chevy Bolt is a great and Reliable American-made car. The full charge can take you as far as two hundred and fifty miles, and a quick thirty-minute charge time can get you as far as ninety miles. You also don’t have to sacrifice power to have an electric engine. The Bolt can go from zero to sixty in 6.5 seconds.

3. Buick LaCrosse

This full-sized, amazingly built sedan is a great reliable American-made car. The base model for this car is more than acceptable. But you can spruce it up to one of the best mixtures of comfort and speed out there by adding a 3.6 L V6 engine. Don’t forget about safety. The Buick LaCrosse boasts superior front-end crash prevention.

OTHER CAR SHOPPING APPS ARE OUTDATED

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4. Chevrolet Camaro

This car is one of the most collectible classic cars you can buy. The amazingly built originals are why Chevy decided to bring it back. The Chevrolet Camaro car that proves focus on speed does not mean you have to sacrifice reliability. The four-cylinder version has a respectable two hundred and seventy-five horsepower, while the six-cylinder has an impressive three hundred and thirty-five horsepower.For some reason, Buicks get overlooked for reliability these days. I guess it is easy to forget some of the classics with so many options. This fabulous convertible is exceptionally reliable and has a massive trunk for a convertible. This car is another reliable American Made car that the base model is sure to satisfy but can be decked out to be very impressive.

5. Buick Cascada

For some reason, Buicks get overlooked for reliability these days. With so many options, I guess it is easy to forget some of the classics. This fabulous convertible is exceptionally reliable and has a massive trunk for a convertible. This car is another reliable American Made car that the base model is sure to satisfy but can be decked out to be very impressive.

6. Chevrolet Cruze

The Cruze is a versatile and reliable car that will not rob your purse or wallet. This speedy little sedan or hatchback seats five comfortably and will meet all your basic needs. The Chevy Cruze proves you do not have to break the bank to get a great reliable car.

7. Ford Mustang

Hi Eleanor. Some classics never go out of style. Some classics just keep getting better with the changing times. The Mustang is another sports car that does not sacrifice an ounce of quality and still is fast. Base models will seat four comfortably, have three hundred and ten horsepower, and be souped up to 460 horsepower.

8. Chevrolet Malibu

Excellent gas mileage and a moderate but affordable amount of elegance make the Chevy Malibu a great American car. You get the most out of your money with this car that has a great base model and can be upgraded to be a mini-speed demon. With adequate trunk space and plenty of room for passengers to ride comfortably, this is one of the best cars money can buy.

IS GAP INSURANCE WORTH IT?

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9. Ford Fusion

The Ford Fusion delivers essential comfort and reliability, labeled as fun to drive and available as a hybrid. Not fully electric, it will still beat any other non-hybrid out on gas mileage. If you are looking for a basic but satisfying reliable American-made car, this is your choice.

10. Cadillac CTS

You can not discuss well-built, reliable American cars without suggesting a Cadillac. Aside from being some of the most sought-after classic cars that have ever existed, Cadillac has never dropped its standards. Jumping recently into sports models, there is the CTS. Every engine in these models is turbocharged and ranges from two hundred and sixty horsepower all the way up to four hundred and twenty horsepower. This is everything you would expect from a Cadillac. You get your comfort, and you get your speed. If you can swing the funds for this iconic brand of car, you will get everything you would expect and more.

Honorable Mentions

Ford Escape

If you’re looking for a no-nonsense compact SUV that will reliably haul you and your family, it’s hard to go wrong with the Ford Escape. According to RepairPal, the Ford Escape has a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0, considered Above-average. The Ford Escape was designed to be simple, easy to maintain, and convenient – the hallmarks of any reliable vehicle.

Chevrolet Sonic

Like many car models, the Sonic has its fair share of good and bad years in reliability. However, the Chevy Sonic is a reliable compact car on a budget. RepairPal gave the Sonic a reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.0, which is an Above Average rating. The Sonic can reliably carry five passengers in relative comfort, and the hatchback version has more flexible cargo space. Unfortunately, the Sonic was discontinued in 2020.

Chevrolet Equinox

Quite simply, the Chevy Equinox is one of the most reliable American cars you can buy as used. The compact SUV offers a list of generous standard equipment, a comfy interior, and affordable running costs. Other vehicles may have a more upscale interior with premium-feeling materials, but the Equinox offers second-to-none reliability.

THE BEST USED LUXURY CARS ON THE MARKET

Buying a used or CPO luxury car is one of the smartest buys you can make — you can get a lot of car for not much money. You can pick up a three-year-old luxury car for about half of what you’d pay new. Check out this list of the best used luxury cars on the market to find the best deals.

To Sum It All Up

Sometimes America gets a bad reputation for making certain products. Reliable American-made cars are no exception, so exploring the best American-made cars is excellent. Several cars could make this list; there are more than ten, but on average, these are the American-made cars that consistently get rated the highest and recommended the most.

With all these choices, why not consider an American-made car for your next vehicle? Why not give it a shot if you haven’t bought American in a few years? The odds are you won’t regret your purchase.

Get a Curated List of the Best Used Cars Near You

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The best part? CoPilot is built using the same technology that dealerships use to buy and sell their inventories, so we have more info on each vehicle than competitors. CoPilot doesn’t work with dealerships, so there are no sponsored posts or other shady practices — just the most info on the best cars. Check out our About Us page to see how CoPilot works.