A Discussion on Vehicle Reputation

What is it that makes a vehicle's reputation? We have all heard the jokes about different car brands such as Ford and KIA supposedly being acryonoms for "forever on the road dead," or "killed in action" respectively. These labels tend to stick in spite of the fact all reports show Ford and Kia have progressed nicely with improving the quality of their car models over the last 20 years.

JD Powers, an independent research and consulting firm, has compiled data that is designed to add more science to the study of what makes a vehicle's reputation for reliability. In their study, JD Powers developed a model that looks at the number of vehicle problems per vehicle per 100 vehicles. In other words, for the study, JD Powers found that the Land Rover has 441 problems per 100 vehicles. The problem variables range from reported oil leaks to engine problems to transmission malfunctions. The study tablulated all of the problems found in a sampling of 100 vehicles of the same make and model and then ratings were applied based on the reliability of the vehicle. JD Powers also included input from experienced auto mechanics to provide balance to the study. For example, according to Mitchell Seligson, a mechanic in Orangeburg, N.Y. for 16 years, Hondas and Toyotas are the most reliable vehicles. This sentiment was echoed by Shawn Harris, a 25 year mechanic from Overdrive Motors in Iowa City. Most of the mechanics surveyed in the study gave the same input. This type of research is important because it contributes directly to consumer perception which contributes to what consumers are willing to pay for a vehicle.

In the 1980s it was pretty much assumed that "import" models were more reliable. Today, companies like Toyota and Honda regularly construct the cars in the U.S. so maybe the term "import" is obsolete, but the perception, and in the case of this study, the data, still indicates that Toyota and Honda are the best bets for your dollar.