Additional Coverage:
- J.D. Power Says These Are the Most Dependable Cars You Can Buy in 2025 (financebuzz.com)
The Most Dependable Rides: Which Cars Keep Your Wallet Happy?
When you’re eyeing a new set of wheels, the sticker price is just the beginning. Savvy car buyers know that ongoing maintenance and potential repairs can quickly turn a “deal” into a drain on your bank account.
Thankfully, J.D. Power is here to help us separate the smooth operators from the money pits.
Their 2025 Vehicle Dependability Study recently dropped, ranking manufacturers based on the number of problems per 100 vehicles. The national average sits at 202 issues per 100 vehicles, but some brands are clearly outperforming the rest. If reliability and long-term savings are high on your priority list, pay attention to these top contenders!
The Top 10 Most Dependable Car Brands:
10. Kia
Kicking off our top ten, Kia clocked in with 196 problems per 100 vehicles. Popular models like the compact Forte and the spacious Sedona minivan are part of their reliable lineup.
9. MINI
Coming in at number nine, MINI drivers reported 190 issues per 100 vehicles. Known for their distinctive compact design and unique features, MINIs offer a different flavor for those seeking dependability.
8. BMW
BMW secures the eighth spot with 189 issues per 100 vehicles. While the brand as a whole made the list, individual models like the 3 Series and 4 Series particularly shined, ranking among the top three most dependable compact premium cars.
7. Porsche
Porsche rolls into seventh place with 186 problems per 100 vehicles. With models like the Porsche 718, this brand maintains a strong reputation in the premium sports car segment.
6. GMC
Making a strong entrance into the top ten this year, GMC registered 181 issues per 100 vehicles. The GMC Terrain notably earned a top spot in the compact SUV category, contributing to the brand’s impressive showing.
5. Cadillac (Tie)
Sharing the fifth spot with 169 issues per 100 vehicles is Cadillac. Their entry into the top ten is largely thanks to models like the XT5, which performed exceptionally well in the midsize premium SUV category.
5. Chevrolet (Tie)
Tied with Cadillac for the fifth position, Chevrolet also reported 169 issues per 100 vehicles. The brand’s dependable performance was bolstered by popular models such as the Blazer, which ranked highly in the midsize SUV segment.
4. Toyota
A perennial favorite for reliability, Toyota earned a score of 162 issues per 100 vehicles. The Toyota Venza, in particular, stood out with a high ranking in the midsize SUV category.
3. Mazda
Leaping an impressive four spots from last year, Mazda’s dependability score came in at 161 issues per 100 vehicles. Their offerings, including the popular CX-5 and CX-9, are clearly making an impression.
2. Buick
Holding steady in the runner-up position, Buick reported just 143 problems per 100 vehicles. Part of the General Motors family, like Chevrolet, Buick’s lineup includes reliable SUVs like the Enclave and Encore.
1. Lexus
And the winner is… Lexus!
Topping the list with an impressive 140 issues per 100 vehicles, Lexus continues to set the standard for dependability. Models like the Lexus RX and the top-ranking Lexus GX (in the midsize premium SUV category) solidify its position as a brand that truly helps you keep more cash in your wallet over the long haul.
The Bottom Line for Your Budget
Before you hit the dealership, remember that a car’s true cost goes beyond its initial price tag. Factoring in dependability, maintenance, and other long-term expenses is crucial for smart financial planning. And speaking of savings, always shop around for car insurance to ensure you’re getting the best rates and reducing the overall cost of your new vehicle.
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- J.D. Power Says These Are the Most Dependable Cars You Can Buy in 2025 (financebuzz.com)