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Transportation equipment industry

Lexus Dominates Vehicle Dependability for 11th Consecutive Year

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Lexus has once again taken the top spot in vehicle dependability, as reported by the J.D. Power and Associates 2005 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS). This marks the 11th consecutive year the luxury brand has earned the highest rating. The study measures problems experienced by original owners of 3-year-old vehicles, providing valuable insights into long-term vehicle quality. The industry has seen a 12 percent improvement in vehicle quality, with nearly all nameplates and 84 percent of vehicle models recording year-over-year improvements.

Key Takeaways:

  • Lexus ranks highest in vehicle dependability for the 11th consecutive year, with a 14 percent improvement compared to 2004.
  • Porsche makes the largest percentage improvement in its VDS score, with a 38 percent increase compared to 2004.
  • Hyundai experiences the largest reduction in problems reported by owners, with a dramatic 115 PP100 improvement (31%).
  • General Motors models earn eight segment awards, and Ford Motor Company models receive five segment awards, a record for both GM and Ford in VDS.
  • Toyota Motor Corporation models receive four awards.
  • The Lexus LS 430 is the first model in VDS history to receive fewer than 100 PP100, earning a score of 90 PP100 and the premium luxury car segment award.
  • Chevrolet captures the most segment awards, with four models earning awards in their respective segments: Prizm, Malibu, S-10 Pickup, and Silverado HD.
  • Ford receives three segment awards, for the Thunderbird, Windstar, and E-Series.

Statistics:

  • The automotive industry records a 12 percent improvement in long-term vehicle quality.
  • The industry average improves 32 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) compared to 2004.
  • Nearly all nameplates and 84 percent of vehicle models show year-over-year improvements.
  • 3-year-old vehicles of brands performing above the industry average in VDS typically retain $1,000 more of their value than those of brands performing below the industry average.
  • Porsche improves 38 percent compared to 2004, a 91 PP100 improvement.
  • Hyundai records a 115 PP100 improvement (31%).
  • Lexus LS 430 receives the premium luxury car segment award with a score of 90 PP100.

Sources:

  • J.D. Power and Associates 2005 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS)
  • J.D. Power Consumer Center
  • The McGraw-Hill Companies
  • The McGraw-Hill Companies' website (http://www.mcgraw-hill.com/)
  • J.D. Power and Associates website (http://www.jdpower.com/)

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