Most Dependable Car Brands 2017: A Comprehensive Guide to Lasting Quality

Most Dependable Car Brands 2017: A Comprehensive Guide to Lasting Quality cars.truckstrend.com

In the ever-evolving automotive landscape, where new models and technologies emerge at a dizzying pace, one attribute consistently remains paramount for car buyers: dependability. A dependable car isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns; it’s about peace of mind, lower ownership costs, higher resale value, and the assurance that your vehicle will consistently perform as expected, day in and day out. For many, a car is one of the most significant investments they’ll make, and understanding which brands have historically demonstrated robust reliability is crucial.

This article delves into the "Most Dependable Car Brands of 2017," offering a detailed retrospective that remains highly relevant for anyone considering a used car from that era or simply seeking to understand the enduring qualities of automotive reliability. We’ll explore what dependability truly means, how it’s measured by leading industry experts, highlight the brands that excelled, and provide practical advice for leveraging this valuable information in your car-buying journey.

Most Dependable Car Brands 2017: A Comprehensive Guide to Lasting Quality

Understanding Car Dependability: What Does It Mean?

The concept of car dependability goes far beyond merely whether a vehicle starts every morning. It encompasses a broad spectrum of characteristics that contribute to a positive, trouble-free ownership experience over several years. At its core, dependability refers to the likelihood that a vehicle will operate without significant issues, failures, or unexpected repairs over an extended period.

Key facets of automotive dependability include:

• Fewer Repairs: A dependable car requires fewer unscheduled visits to the mechanic for unexpected issues. This translates directly into lower maintenance costs and less inconvenience for the owner.
• Consistent Performance: The vehicle maintains its original performance characteristics – engine power, transmission smoothness, braking efficiency, and handling – without degradation over time.
• Quality of Components: High-quality materials and robust engineering ensure that all parts, from the engine block to the infotainment system, withstand the rigors of daily use and environmental exposure.
• Durability and Longevity: The car is built to last, capable of accumulating high mileage without succumbing to premature wear and tear on major systems.



• Owner Satisfaction: Ultimately, dependability contributes significantly to owner satisfaction, as a reliable vehicle reduces stress and enhances the overall driving experience.

It’s important to distinguish dependability from initial quality. Initial quality often refers to problems experienced within the first 90 days of ownership (e.g., manufacturing defects, design flaws that appear early). Dependability, on the other hand, typically measures issues that arise after three or more years of ownership, reflecting the long-term robustness of the vehicle.

The Leading Methodologies: How Dependability is Assessed

Assessing automotive dependability is a complex task that relies on extensive data collection and rigorous analysis. In 2017, two primary organizations stood out for their comprehensive studies: J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. Their methodologies, while distinct, both aim to provide consumers with reliable insights into long-term vehicle performance.

J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS)

J.D. Power’s annual Vehicle Dependability Study is one of the most respected benchmarks in the industry. The 2017 VDS, for instance, measured problems experienced during the past 12 months by original owners of 2014 model-year vehicles. This three-year ownership period is crucial, as it allows sufficient time for issues related to design, engineering, and manufacturing to manifest.

• Data Collection: J.D. Power surveyed over 35,000 original owners across 177 specific problem symptoms grouped into 8 major vehicle categories: engine/transmission, exterior, interior, features/controls/displays (FCD), audio/communication/entertainment/navigation (ACEN), heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC), seats, and driving experience.
• Scoring: Results are presented as "problems per 100 vehicles" (PP100). A lower PP100 score indicates higher dependability. The industry average PP100 serves as a benchmark for comparison.
• Focus: The VDS emphasizes the types and frequency of problems, whether they are design-related or component failures.

Consumer Reports Reliability Survey

Consumer Reports (CR) conducts one of the largest and most comprehensive subscriber-based auto surveys. Their 2017 reliability survey gathered data on hundreds of thousands of vehicles from their members, covering model years from 2007 to 2016. This broader scope allows for a more granular understanding of specific model reliability across different ages.

• Data Collection: CR asks subscribers to report any serious problems they’ve had with their vehicles in the past 12 months, categorizing issues across 17 problem areas, including major engine/transmission troubles, minor engine/transmission issues, body integrity, power equipment, climate system, brakes, exhaust, paint/trim, and in-car electronics.
• Scoring: CR uses this data to calculate a "predicted reliability score" for new models and provides reliability ratings for specific used car models. They often present results on a scale (e.g., 1-5 or a simple "worse than average" to "much better than average").
• Focus: CR’s strength lies in its vast database of real-world owner experiences, providing a practical perspective on what owners actually face.

By cross-referencing data from both J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, a clearer picture of true automotive dependability emerges. Brands that consistently rank high in both studies are often considered the most reliable.

The Top Performers: Most Dependable Car Brands 2017

Based on the 2017 studies from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, a clear hierarchy of dependable car brands emerged. These brands consistently demonstrated superior engineering, manufacturing quality, and long-term reliability.

J.D. Power 2017 Vehicle Dependability Study Top Brands:

1. Lexus: Consistently at the top for years, Lexus (Toyota’s luxury division) once again led the pack with an impressive 110 PP100. Their meticulous engineering and focus on long-term quality are unparalleled.
2. Porsche: A surprising entry for some, Porsche demonstrated that high performance doesn’t have to compromise reliability, scoring 110 PP100, tying with Lexus.
3. Toyota: The parent company of Lexus, Toyota, maintained its strong reputation for dependability with 123 PP100. Known for robust powertrains and practical design.
4. Buick: A standout among domestic brands, Buick achieved an excellent 126 PP100, showcasing General Motors’ commitment to quality improvement.
5. Mercedes-Benz: Germany’s luxury giant showed strong dependability with 131 PP100, proving that advanced technology can be reliable.
6. Hyundai: Continuing its ascent in the market, Hyundai delivered solid dependability with 133 PP100.
7. BMW: Another German luxury brand performing well, BMW scored 139 PP100.
8. Chevrolet: Following its GM stablemate, Chevrolet showed good dependability with 142 PP100.
9. Honda: A long-time reliability leader, Honda scored 143 PP100.
10. Jaguar: A notable improvement, Jaguar rounded out the top 10 with 144 PP100, indicating progress in its quality control.

The industry average for 2017 was 156 PP100, meaning all brands above this score performed better than average.

Consumer Reports 2017 Reliability Survey Top Brands:

While CR does not provide PP100 scores, they rank brands based on their predicted reliability scores across their lineup.

1. Lexus: Once again, Lexus was at the very top, with CR noting its consistent excellence across its models.
2. Toyota: Following closely, Toyota’s entire lineup generally scored very well, reinforcing its reputation for bulletproof reliability.
3. Mazda: Mazda has steadily improved its reliability, often scoring highly due to its simpler, robust engineering and engaging driving dynamics.
4. Subaru: Known for its AWD systems and boxer engines, Subaru maintained a strong reliability record.
5. Porsche: Echoing J.D. Power, Porsche proved its mettle in CR’s rankings as well.
6. Kia: Hyundai’s sister brand, Kia, demonstrated significant strides in quality and dependability.
7. Audi: Germany’s Audi showed strong reliability, particularly in its sedans and smaller SUVs.
8. Buick: Consistent with J.D. Power, Buick continued to be a top performer for American brands.
9. Honda: A staple in reliability, Honda’s models generally performed well, though some specific models had minor issues.
10. Hyundai: Solidifying its position as a reliable choice, Hyundai’s range continued to impress.

Common Threads and Insights:
The data from 2017 clearly indicates that Japanese brands, particularly Lexus and Toyota, held a dominant position in automotive dependability. Buick was a strong American performer, consistently ranking among the best. Korean brands Hyundai and Kia demonstrated impressive improvements, solidifying their reputation. While European luxury brands like Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi showed strong overall performance, they sometimes contend with more complex electronic systems that can introduce minor reported issues compared to their simpler Japanese counterparts.

Factors Contributing to Automotive Dependability

Several factors intertwine to create a dependable vehicle:

• Engineering and Manufacturing Quality: This is foundational. It involves rigorous design, extensive testing of components, use of durable materials, and stringent quality control during the manufacturing process. Brands that invest heavily in these areas tend to produce more reliable vehicles.
• Powertrain Reliability: The engine and transmission are the heart of any vehicle. Brands known for simple, well-proven engine and transmission designs often lead in reliability. Complex new technologies, while innovative, can sometimes introduce new points of failure if not thoroughly vetted.
• Component Integration: How well various systems (engine, transmission, electronics, chassis) communicate and operate together is crucial. Seamless integration reduces stress on individual components and minimizes glitches.
• Brand Philosophy: Some manufacturers prioritize long-term durability and low cost of ownership over cutting-edge, untested technology. Their design philosophy centers on proven components and gradual, iterative improvements.
• Supply Chain Management: The quality of parts sourced from suppliers plays a significant role. Brands with robust supplier vetting and quality assurance programs benefit from more reliable components.

Practical Advice for Buyers: Leveraging 2017 Dependability Data Today

While 2017 seems like a few years ago, the dependability data from that year remains incredibly valuable, especially for those in the market for a used car. Here’s how you can leverage this information:

• Informed Used Car Purchases: If you’re looking at a 2017 model year vehicle (or even a 2014-2016 model that was part of the 2017 studies), knowing which brands and, more importantly, which specific models were highly dependable can guide your search. A well-maintained vehicle from a top-ranked brand in 2017 is likely to offer many more years of reliable service.
• Beyond the Brand: Focus on Specific Models: While brand dependability is a strong indicator, always dig deeper into specific model reliability. A brand might be highly dependable overall, but an individual model might have a known issue (e.g., a problematic transmission in one specific year). Consumer Reports is excellent for model-specific reliability data.
• Check Maintenance Records: Even the most dependable car needs proper maintenance. Always ask for detailed service records. A car from a highly dependable brand that has been neglected will likely be less reliable than a well-maintained car from a moderately dependable brand.
• Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI): Before buying any used car, especially one from 2017, invest in a pre-purchase inspection by an independent, trusted mechanic. This can uncover existing problems that even a dependable brand might develop over time.
• Consider Resale Value: Dependable brands often hold their value better over time. If you eventually plan to sell the car, opting for a brand known for its reliability can result in a higher resale price.
• Long-Term Ownership Costs: Factor in that a more dependable car will likely save you money on unexpected repairs and maintenance over the years, making the total cost of ownership lower, even if the initial purchase price is slightly higher.

Challenges and Nuances in Assessing Dependability

While studies provide excellent guidance, assessing dependability isn’t without its complexities:

• Definition of "Problem": What constitutes a "problem" can vary. Is a fussy infotainment system as serious as an engine issue? Studies attempt to weigh these, but consumer perception can differ.
• New Technologies: As cars become more complex with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), large touchscreens, and sophisticated connectivity features, these technologies can introduce new areas for glitches, even if core mechanicals remain solid.
• Sample Size and Bias: Survey-based studies rely on owner participation, which can introduce biases. Owners with very positive or very negative experiences might be more likely to respond.
• Long-Term vs. Short-Term: Some studies focus on early ownership (initial quality), while dependability studies look at 3+ years. It’s crucial to understand which timeframe is being measured.
• Varying Methodologies: Different organizations use different survey questions, problem categories, and scoring methods, which can lead to slightly different rankings. It’s best to look for consensus across multiple reputable sources.

Reliability Ranking and Key Information Table for 2017

Here’s a summarized table of the most dependable car brands in 2017, drawing from the J.D. Power VDS and Consumer Reports data:

Rank (Avg.)	Brand	J.D. Power 2017 VDS (PP100)	Consumer Reports 2017 Reliability	Key Strengths	Typical Vehicle Category / Focus
1	Lexus	110 (1st)	Excellent (Top)	Meticulous engineering, powertrain, quality	Luxury Sedans, SUVs
2	Toyota	123 (3rd)	Excellent (2nd)	Powertrain, practicality, longevity	Mass-Market Sedans, SUVs, Trucks
3	Porsche	110 (1st, Tie)	Very Good (5th)	Engineering precision, performance durability	Luxury Sports Cars, Performance SUVs
4	Buick	126 (4th)	Very Good (8th)	Solid mechanicals, interior quality, steady	Mainstream Luxury Sedans, Crossovers
5	Honda	143 (9th)	Very Good (9th)	Engine/transmission, balanced performance	Mass-Market Sedans, SUVs, Minivans
6	Hyundai	133 (6th)	Very Good (10th)	Value, improving quality, infotainment	Mass-Market Sedans, Crossovers, Compacts
7	Mazda	Not in JDP Top 10	Excellent (3rd)	Driving dynamics, robust mechanicals	Compact Cars, Small SUVs, Sports Cars
8	Kia	Not in JDP Top 10	Very Good (6th)	Value, warranty, growing quality	Mass-Market Sedans, SUVs, Compacts
9	Mercedes-Benz	131 (5th)	Good	Refined engineering, luxury, performance	Luxury Sedans, SUVs, Performance Models
10	BMW	139 (7th)	Good	Driving dynamics, engine performance	Luxury Sedans, SUVs, Performance Models
11	Chevrolet	142 (8th)	Good	Trucks, SUVs, improving car reliability	Mass-Market Sedans, Trucks, SUVs, Sports Cars
12	Audi	Not in JDP Top 10	Very Good (7th)	Interior quality, AWD systems, infotainment	Luxury Sedans, SUVs, Wagons
13	Jaguar	144 (10th)	Fair	Styling, performance (improving reliability)	Luxury Sedans, Sports Cars, SUVs

Note: J.D. Power and Consumer Reports use different methodologies and ranking criteria. This table provides a composite view based on their 2017 reports. PP100 (Problems Per 100 Vehicles) for J.D. Power; Consumer Reports uses a proprietary predicted reliability score and qualitative ratings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is 2017 dependability data still relevant today?
A1: 2017 data provides excellent insight for buyers of used cars from that model year (or earlier models that were part of the 2017 studies, typically 2014 models for J.D. Power). It reflects the engineering and manufacturing quality of vehicles from that era, helping predict long-term performance for used vehicles.

Q2: Do these brand rankings change significantly year to year?
A2: While the exact positions can shift, the top-tier brands (e.g., Lexus, Toyota) often remain consistently high performers year after year due to established quality control and engineering philosophies. Brands that are making significant improvements also tend to show a steady rise.

Q3: Is a dependable brand always the best choice for every car buyer?
A3: Not necessarily. While dependability is crucial, other factors like purchase price, specific features, design aesthetics, driving dynamics, fuel efficiency, and personal preferences also play a significant role. It’s about finding the right balance for your individual needs and budget.

Q4: How do luxury brands compare to mass-market brands in terms of dependability?
A4: It’s a mixed bag. Some luxury brands (like Lexus and Porsche) consistently rank at the top. However, luxury vehicles often incorporate more complex technologies and features, which can sometimes lead to a higher number of reported issues (even if minor) compared to simpler mass-market vehicles.

Q5: Does regular maintenance impact a car’s dependability?
A5: Absolutely. Even the most dependable car brand will suffer from a lack of proper, scheduled maintenance. Following the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals for oil changes, fluid checks, tire rotations, and component replacements is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability and extending the life of any vehicle.

Q6: Where can I find the most up-to-date reliability data for current models?
A6: For the most current reliability data on newer models, you should consult the latest annual reports from J.D. Power (Vehicle Dependability Study, Initial Quality Study) and Consumer Reports (Annual Auto Survey). Websites like RepairPal and TrueDelta also offer user-submitted reliability data.

Concluding Summary

Understanding the most dependable car brands of 2017 offers invaluable insight into the enduring qualities of automotive engineering and manufacturing. While Lexus and Toyota consistently led the charge, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to long-term reliability, other brands like Buick, Hyundai, and Kia showed significant strides in quality. This retrospective highlights that true dependability is a product of meticulous design, rigorous testing, and a focus on the owner’s long-term experience. For anyone seeking a used vehicle from that era, or simply appreciating the marques that prioritize lasting quality, this data remains a powerful guide, ensuring peace of mind and lower ownership costs for years to come.