Reliability should be a top priority when purchasing a car. Whether buying new or used, you want a vehicle that will last, saving you from costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns.
Each year, Consumer Reports compiles a list of the most reliable car brands based on data from its extensive reliability surveys.
The findings are based on subscribers’ feedback on the performance and issues they encounter with their vehicles. Here’s a look at the top 10 most reliable car brands for 2024.
Top 10 Most Reliable Car Brands in 2024
1. Subaru
Subaru will take the top spot in 2024, which is a bit of a surprise given Toyota and Lexus’ usual dominance in this area. While Subaru is best known for its Symmetrical all-wheel-drive systems and boxer engines, the Forester and Impreza models are credited with earning the brand its high ranking. The rest of Subaru’s lineup was rated average to above average, with the Solterra EV being the only exception, receiving a below-average score.
2. Lexus
Lexus, Toyota’s luxury division, comes in second. Known for delivering vehicles with long-lasting powertrains, Lexus continues to maintain a reputation for reliability. With four of its seven models receiving above-average scores, it remains a safe bet for those seeking a dependable luxury vehicle.
3. Toyota
Toyota, often seen as the gold standard for reliability, took third place in 2024. While the brand is known for producing cars that last for hundreds of thousands of miles, issues with certain models, including the Tundra and bZ4X EV, have slightly affected its overall score. Despite these setbacks, Toyota still saw 11 of its models earn above-average ratings, maintaining its strong reputation for dependability.
4. Honda
Honda, a consistent player in the reliability rankings, takes fourth place in 2024. Honda continues to impress with a proven history of durable cars that run for years with minimal maintenance. Three models scored above average, while the remaining seven were rated average.
5. Acura
Acura, Honda’s luxury counterpart, rounds out the top five. Acura’s ZDX EV, launched last year, is known for its solid performance and luxury features and represents the brand’s step into the electric vehicle market. Despite some challenges with the new model, the brand remains a strong contender in reliability, with one model scoring above average.
6. Mazda
Mazda, another Japanese manufacturer, comes in sixth place. While not as popular as Toyota or Honda, Mazda has built a strong reputation for solid construction and durable powertrains. However, the company’s CX-90 SUV, especially in its hybrid version, brought down its overall score due to transmission, steering, suspension, and electronics issues.
7. Audi
Audi is an unexpected entry into the top 10. German brands typically don’t rank as highly for reliability, but Audi’s strong performance with newer vehicles has earned it a spot at number seven. However, European cars often face reliability issues over time so that this ranking may change as the vehicles age.
8. BMW
BMW follows Audi at number eight. Similar to Audi, it’s rare for German cars to score highly in terms of reliability, but BMW has managed to secure a place on the list. Its X5 hybrid performed worse than the gas-only version, which affected the brand’s overall score. However, BMW continues to be praised for its driving performance and overall quality.
9. Kia
Once seen as a budget brand, Kia now ranks ninth for reliability. Known for producing affordable and reliable vehicles, Kia has earned a strong following. With impressive designs and models like the Kia GT offering both style and performance, the brand has moved from a low-cost option to a major player in the auto industry.
10. Hyundai
Hyundai completes the list in tenth place, following its sister brand Kia. In recent years, Hyundai has dramatically improved its reputation, offering solid vehicles that are both reliable and affordable. The brand has even become known for producing some of the most exciting electric cars on the market, proving that reliability doesn’t have to come at the expense of innovation.
Conclusion
The top 10 most reliable car brands for 2024 show a clear dominance of Japanese automakers, with Subaru, Lexus, and Toyota leading the pack. Despite this, there are some surprises, with Audi and BMW representing strong European contenders. As for American brands, none made it into the top 10, reflecting ongoing reliability challenges within that segment. For buyers prioritizing dependability, these rankings offer valuable insight into the brands consistently delivering vehicles built to last.
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