Data analytics firm J.D. Power has been producing an annual U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study for more than 30 years — a study that automakers take seriously and consumers recognize and value.
The 2021 study examines problems experienced in the last 12 months by original owners of 2018 model-year vehicles, with overall dependability determined by the number of problems experienced per 100 vehicles — also known as PP100. A lower score indicates higher dependability.
This year J.D. Power reports that overall dependability is at an all-time high, with ratings improving 10 percent compared to 2020’s results.
Of the eight categories analyzed by J.D. Power for this study, all improved year over year. However, ACEN, which stands for Audio/ Communication/Entertainment/Navigation, showed only marginal improvement and remains the most problematic category.
“From early in the ownership experience, many owners complain about these systems being problematic,” said Dave Sargent, vice president of automotive quality at J.D. Power. The 2021 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study is based on responses from more than 33,000 original owners of 2018 model-year vehicles after three years of ownership.
J.D. Power conducted the study from July through November 2020.
