N※N

New Car Dependability Declining, J.D. Power Study Finds

  //automotive-transportation.news-articles.net/co .. pendability-declining-j-d-power-study-finds.html
  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Saturday, February 14th 2026 at 8:03 GMT by Carscoops
      Locales: UNITED STATES, JAPAN, KOREA REPUBLIC OF, GERMANY

Saturday, February 14th, 2026 - A concerning trend is emerging from the automotive industry: new car dependability is demonstrably declining, according to the latest Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) released today by J.D. Power. The annual study, which surveys original owners of 2023 model year vehicles after three years of ownership, reveals a record-high number of problems reported per vehicle, sparking industry-wide discussion and raising questions about the rapid integration of technology in modern automobiles.

The 2026 VDS paints a stark picture. The study utilizes a Problems Per 100 vehicles (PP100) metric. This year, the PP100 score has climbed to 188, a significant jump from the 166 recorded in 2022. This means owners are encountering more issues with their relatively new vehicles than they did just a few years ago, a reversal of the long-term improvements in automotive quality seen in previous decades.

The Software Scourge: A Technological Tightrope

While mechanical failures remain a concern, the driving force behind the decline in dependability isn't under the hood - it's within the software. Infotainment systems, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) - including features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist - and other electronic features are consistently identified as the primary sources of problems. These complex systems, designed to enhance convenience, safety, and the overall driving experience, are proving to be surprisingly fragile.

Experts suggest several factors are contributing to this software-related surge in issues. The increasingly complex nature of automotive software, with millions of lines of code governing everything from engine control to climate control, creates a larger attack surface for bugs and glitches. Furthermore, the pressure to introduce new features and updates quickly often leads to insufficient testing and quality assurance. Over-the-air (OTA) updates, while convenient for consumers, can also introduce unforeseen problems if not thoroughly vetted. The push for connected car features, while appealing, adds another layer of complexity and potential vulnerabilities.

"Automakers are in a difficult position," explains Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading automotive technology analyst. "They're under immense pressure to innovate and offer cutting-edge technology to remain competitive. But they can't afford to sacrifice reliability in the process. Consumers are increasingly frustrated by software glitches that impact the functionality of their vehicles."

Winners and Losers in the Dependability Race

The J.D. Power VDS highlights a clear divide between brands excelling in dependability and those struggling to keep up. Genesis once again leads the pack, achieving a PP100 score of 136 and retaining the top spot for the third consecutive year. Analysts attribute their success to a steadfast commitment to quality control and a more measured approach to implementing new technologies. Lexus and Acura also demonstrate strong performance, reinforcing the reputation of Japanese automakers for building reliable vehicles.

However, the bottom of the rankings reveals a different story. Tesla, a pioneer in electric vehicles and autonomous driving technology, continues to lag behind, posting a PP100 score of 257. Their reliance on complex software and frequent OTA updates appears to be a significant contributing factor. The company's aggressive pursuit of innovation, while admirable, has seemingly come at the cost of dependability. Dodge, another brand facing significant challenges, ranks near the bottom with a PP100 of 246, suggesting broader issues impacting the Stellantis group.

Looking Ahead: A Call for Prioritized Reliability

The implications of the J.D. Power VDS extend beyond mere rankings. The decline in new car dependability has the potential to erode consumer trust and damage brand reputation. More importantly, it underscores the critical need for automakers to prioritize robust software development processes and rigorous quality assurance testing. Investing in skilled software engineers, implementing comprehensive testing protocols, and adopting a more cautious approach to feature releases are essential steps to address the current crisis.

The VDS serves as a vital benchmark for long-term vehicle quality and owner satisfaction. Automakers must recognize that technology, while crucial for the future of the industry, must be reliable and seamlessly integrated to deliver a positive ownership experience. Ignoring this lesson could lead to a future where consumers are wary of the very features designed to enhance their driving experience.