Pandemic-Era Vehicles Show Significant Reliability Decline in J.D. Power Dependability Study

The automotive industry continues to grapple with the lingering effects of pandemic-era production challenges, according to the latest J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS). The comprehensive research reveals that vehicles manufactured during the height of COVID-19 disruptions (model year 2022) are demonstrating more problems than any cohort since 2009.

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Understanding the Study Methodology

The 2025 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study collected feedback from 34,175 original owners of 2022 model-year vehicles after three years of ownership. Researchers evaluated 184 specific problem areas across nine major categories:

• Climate systems: HVAC performance and reliability
• Driving assistance: Advanced safety and convenience features
• Driving experience: Handling, ride quality, and noise levels
• Exterior: Paint quality, body integrity, and lighting
• Features/controls: Buttons, switches, and display interfaces
• Infotainment: Navigation, audio, and connectivity systems
• Interior: Materials quality, fit and finish
• Powertrain: Engine, transmission, and drivetrain performance
• Seats: Comfort, adjustability, and durability
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The Pandemic's Lasting Impact on Vehicle Quality

Jason Norton, J.D. Power's Director of Auto Benchmarking, explains: "Today's three-year-old vehicles represent the automotive industry's most challenging production period in recent memory. Manufacturers faced unprecedented supply chain disruptions, critical parts shortages, and workforce instability—all while trying to maintain production volumes."

The data shows a clear correlation between pandemic-era manufacturing conditions and long-term reliability:

• 2022 models showed a 12-point decline in initial quality compared to 2021
• This early deficit translated to a 6% increase in long-term problems
• Vehicles with more electronic content showed steeper reliability declines

The Growing Problem With Automotive Software

Modern vehicles' increasing reliance on complex software systems has created new reliability challenges. The study reveals:

• Software-related issues now account for 9% of all reported problems
• Mass-market brands saw a 16-point increase in software complaints
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• Top connectivity issues include:
  • Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (8.4 PP100, up from 6.3)
  • Bluetooth connectivity (4.6 PP100)
  • Wi-Fi connectivity (2.4 PP100)

While over-the-air (OTA) updates offer potential solutions, only 30% of owners who performed updates reported noticeable improvements. This suggests automakers need to improve both software quality and update effectiveness.

Powertrain Reliability Breakdown

The study provides fascinating insights into how different propulsion systems compare in long-term reliability:

Electric vehicles showed the most dramatic improvement, cutting problems by 33 PP100 from the previous year's study. However, they still trail conventional hybrids and gasoline vehicles in overall reliability.

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Brand Reliability Rankings

For the third consecutive year, Lexus leads all brands with an exceptional 140 PP100 score. The complete brand rankings reveal some surprises and confirm some longstanding reputations:

The industry average stood at 202 PP100, with luxury brands generally outperforming their mainstream counterparts. Notably, Tesla scored 209 PP100 but isn't officially ranked due to not meeting J.D. Power's award criteria.

Segment-by-Segment Model Excellence

Beyond brand rankings, the study identifies the most dependable models in each vehicle category. Toyota and General Motors tied for the most segment leaders with six apiece.

Top Performing Models by Category

Passenger Cars

• Compact Car: Toyota Corolla, Kia Forte, Subaru Impreza
• Midsize Car: Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Hyundai Sonata
• Premium Sporty Car: Chevrolet Corvette
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SUVs & Crossovers

• Compact SUV: Toyota RAV4, GMC Terrain, Mazda CX-5
• Midsize SUV: Nissan Murano, Chevrolet Blazer, Toyota Venza
• Large SUV: Chevrolet Tahoe

Trucks & Minivans

• Midsize Pickup: Toyota Tacoma, GMC Canyon, Chevrolet Colorado
• Full-Size Pickup: Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra
• Minivan: Toyota Sienna

What This Means for Car Buyers

The study offers several important takeaways for consumers:

1. Consider model maturity: First-year models averaged 241 PP100 compared to 196 for carryover models
2. Evaluate tech carefully: Test infotainment systems thoroughly before purchase
3. Hybrids shine: Traditional hybrids edged out gas vehicles in reliability
4. Brand reputation matters: Top brands maintained their positions despite industry challenges

As vehicles become more technologically complex, these dependability metrics become increasingly valuable for buyers seeking long-term satisfaction from their automotive investments.

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