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- Introduction.
The class develops the components that fail most frequently in cars.
- Report on the most common faults.
A new edition of the JD Power reliability study has been published. The study examines the performance of vehicles after their first three years on the road, that is, those registered in 2023. This year, the sample included a total of 33,268 buyers, who identified a total of 184 specific problems across the nine categories into which the analysis is divided. It is worth noting that this is the highest figure recorded since 2022. It should be noted that there is one area that accounts for the highest number of complaints, and it is not mechanical issues.
- Where does the real problem lie?.
As the latest report shows, the main conclusion is that the problems do not lie with the engine, but rather in the digital realm. The infotainment segment receives the highest number of complaints, with a score of 56.7 out of 100, placing it significantly above the next category, which scores 27.5 out of 100.
This finding is not new to us, as it is the third consecutive time this segment has topped this particular ranking. Indeed, connecting a personal phone emerges as the predominant option, whether via Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, achieving a rating of 8.9 out of 100. In second place is Bluetooth connectivity, with a rating of 5.1 out of 100, followed by manufacturer-developed apps, which score 4.7 out of 100.
- OTA-Over the air updates in the spotlight.
One of the features that has gained the most prominence in recent releases is OTA updates, which devices or vehicles receive via the internet. However, no conclusive data on their performance has been revealed. According to the survey results, 40% of respondents have received an update in the last twelve months. Within the scope of the study, 27% of respondents reported an improvement, while the remaining 58% did not perceive any significant changes.
- Premium brands with issues.
Premium brands are expected to offer the best products across all categories; however, JD Power does not share this view. While it is true that these brands excel in areas such as powertrains and seating, they also have shortcomings when it comes to features, controls, and displays. Failures have been reported in models from Mercedes, Audi, Acura, and Infiniti. In contrast, Lexus is the only brand that has not experienced any problems.
- Plug-in hybrids are the least reliable.
Among the various vehicle powertrain systems mentioned in the report, plug-in hybrids received the lowest score, with 281 problems recorded per 100 vehicles. In second place are electric vehicles with a score of 237 out of 100, followed by hybrids with 213 out of 100. Finally, gasoline-powered vehicles scored 198 out of 100.
As for brands, Lexus took first place, while Buick stood out as the top performer among mainstream brands. For its part, Toyota managed to distinguish itself by winning in eight categories.
- Thank you for your time.
The class has developed the components that fail most frequently in cars, see you soon.
