Lexus tops JD Power dependability study

Lexus has once again topped the JD Power dependability study, narrowly edging Porsche in the well-respected annual survey.

The study ranks manufacturers based on problems per 100 cars. Owners of MY2015 cars were surveyed about their vehicles, with any issues grouped into one of eight categories

This year, the industry average for problems per 100 cars (PP100) dropped from 156 to 142. Industry improvement aside, this is the seventh time in a row Lexus has come out on top of the survey.

Lexus came in well below that average with 99 PP100, while Porsche was right behind with a score of 100. Interestingly, Buick took out third place on 116 PP100.

BMW led the German luxury brands on 127 PP110, with Audi returning 141 and Mercedes-Benz dropping below the industry average at 147. It's worth bearing in mind, these results are USA-based.

Infiniti and Kia (120 and 122) rounded out the top five, while Chevrolet and Hyundai (124) both snuck in ahead of Toyota (127).

Down the other end of the table, Chrysler (211 PP100) and Land Rover (204 PP100) locked out the bottom two spots, with Jeep and Fiat (188 and 192) not far ahead.

“For the most part, automotive manufacturers continue to meet consumers’ vehicle dependability expectations,” said Dave Sargent, vice president of global automotive at J.D. Power.

“A 9% improvement is extremely impressive, and vehicle dependability is, without question, at its best level ever."

Even so, there were a few consistent complaints from consumers. Infotainment systems were the most frustrating element of cars, with voice recognition and Bluetooth connectivity leading the way.

MORE: J.D. Power survey results
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