JD Power has released its 2026 US Vehicle Dependability Study, and the results show that long-term reliability still matters to owners even as vehicles become more software-driven and complex.The annual study measures problems experienced by original owners after three years of ownership, in this case, of 2023-model-year cars. The study found overall dependability has worsened across the industry, with an average of 204 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) reported. That’s the highest recorded problem count since the study was redesigned in 2022, says JD Power, and a sign that technology is increasingly driving quality perceptions. A lower score means fewer problems and higher reliability; reported problems largely swirled around infotainment and over-the-air software updates.Brand Ranking2026 us vehicle dependability study brand ranking listDespite the rise in issues, a few brands did manage to rise above the fray. Lexus ranked highest overall among premium brands with a score of 151 PP100, marking the fourth-consecutive year the automaker topped the list. Buick came in first in the mass-market segment with 160 PP100. Lining up behind Lexus in the premium category were Cadillac (175 PP100) and Porsche (182 PP100), while tailing Buick were Mini (168 PP100) and Chevrolet (178 PP100).In terms of model-level awards, Toyota claimed the most accolades, with vehicles like the Lexus IS, UX, and GX, as well as the Toyota Corolla, Camry, Tacoma, Sienna, and 4Runner earning top dependability honors. General Motors also posted strong segment performers, with the Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT6, Chevrolet Equinox, and Chevrolet Tahoe all collecting model-level accolades. The study highlighted that modern cars are increasingly about software as much as hardware, and that’s where the study found many owners are running into trouble. With infotainment issues leading the pack of reported complaints and many owners saying over-the-air updates offered little perceived benefit, automakers seem to be facing a challenge balancing tech features with long-term reliability. Top 3 Models per Segmentoverview of topranked suv models in jd powers 2026 vehicle dependability study“As owners hold onto their vehicles longer, the long-term ownership experience matters more than ever,” said Jason Norton, director of auto benchmarking at JD Power. “Software updates and new technologies should enhance the ownership experience over time, yet many vehicle owners cite ongoing mobile phone integration problems and little to no benefit after an update is performed.”
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