What Are the Most Reliable Car Brands?
From mainstream brands to luxury marques, these automakers rank the highest in dependability.
Alex LeanseWriterMotorTrend StaffPhotographerMar 05, 2024
When it comes to choosing a reliable used car, don’t use conjecture and reputation—depend on data. The auto industry analysts at J.D. Power have exactly that, compiling their findings in their annual Vehicle Dependability Survey. It uses information reported by original owners of vehicles from model year 2021, and grades automakers for problems per 100 vehicles (PP100).
This year, the industry average is 190 PP100, a slight increase from last year. The 11 brands highlighted below perform as well as or better than the industry average. Keep reading to learn about the most reliable car brands, information on notable models from each, and insights from IntelliChoice into their long-term value.
#11 Most Reliable Car Brand: Jeep
Originally a producer of military vehicles during World War II, Jeep has gained a reputation for toughness and durability. The American brand’s most iconic product is the Wrangler, which is superbly capable off-road and benefits from low depreciation, making it an excellent long-term value. Other models include the Grand Cherokee, Gladiator, and three-row Wagoneer, all offering rugged design, versatile capabilities, and modern amenities. Jeep’s 4xe hybrid models offer a glimpse into its electric future. In J.D. Power’s study, Jeep earned a 190 PP100 score, matching the industry average.
#11 Most Reliable Car Brand: Jeep
#10 Most Reliable Car Brand: Dodge
Dodge has a history of producing vehicles that embody power and bold design. The 2023 model year was the last for the rowdy Charger and Challenger, soon to be replaced by a new 2025 Charger coupe that will include an all-electric version. The Durango three-row SUV also faces an electric successor in the next few years. For now, the small Hornet—available as a hybrid—is Dodge’s newest SUV. Dependable as they are, as indicated by J.D. Power’s 190 PP100 rating, Dodge vehicles tend to return unimpressive long-term value ratings from IntelliChoice, except for some trims of the Durango. Oh, well—Dodge nevertheless resonates with enthusiast drivers seeking thrilling rides.
#10 Most Reliable Car Brand: Dodge
- Most powerful: Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170
- Least expensive: Dodge Hornet
- Super spacious: Dodge Durango
#9 Most Reliable Car Brand: BMW
As a leading luxury car brand, BMW is known worldwide for creating vehicles with futuristic tech, premium materials, and sporty driving manners. Whether produced in Germany, the United States, or elsewhere, BMW vehicles as a whole exhibit better dependability in J.D. Power’s study than many other luxury brands, meeting the industry average of 190 PP100. The 3 Series and 4 Series were highlighted among this year’s most reliable luxury cars. Beyond cars like the fun 2 Series and lavish 7 Series, BMW SUV models such as the X3, X5, and three-row X7 are very popular. Sustainability is a focus at BMW, demonstrated by its vegan interiors and all-electric models such as the strange-looking iX and upcoming Neue Klasse.
#9 Most Reliable Car Brand: BMW
- Most fun: BMW M2
- Super spacious: BMW i7
- Least expensive: BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe
#8 Most Reliable Car Brand: Kia
Kia continues to shake its tired reputation with an above-average dependability score of 187 PP100 from J.D. Power—contrasting Hyundai, its corporate counterpart, which received a 197 PP100 rating. In recent years, Kia has gained recognition for its commitment to quality and design, indicated by models like the exciting Stinger, refined Telluride, versatile Sportage, and affordable Soul. Meanwhile, the EV6 and new three-row EV9 SUV make us excited for the many new Kia EVs in development.
#8 Most Reliable Car Brand: Kia
- Most fun: Kia EV6 GT
- Super spacious: Kia EV9
- MotorTrend SUV of the Year winner: Kia Telluride (2020)
#7 Most Reliable Car Brand: Mazda
Among mainstream automakers, Mazda distinguishes itself by creating vehicles that prioritize driver engagement and elegant design. The automaker’s iconic Miata sports car serves as a nucleus for the entire lineup, and its attributes diffuse into the Mazda 3 and crossovers including the CX-30, CX-5, and CX-50. Although Mazda’s first EV, the MX-30, was a flop, available plug-in hybrid powertrains in the CX-70 and CX-90 SUVs indicate that the brand isn’t done with electric power yet—rather, it could be central to Mazda’s rumored next-generation sports car. Regardless, a J.D Power 185 PP100 score shows Mazda knows how to create dependable vehicles—fun-to-drive is just an added perk.
#7 Most Reliable Car Brand: Mazda
- Most fun: Mazda Miata
- Least expensive: Mazda 3
- Super spacious: Mazda CX-70
