Home > News & Blogs > J.D. Power Study: Pandemic-Era Vehicles Still Causing Owner Frustration
J.D. Power Study: Pandemic-Era Vehicles Still Causing Owner Frustration
2025 Vehicle Dependability Study: How Pandemic-Era Cars Measure Up
Understanding Vehicle Dependability: Key Findings
The automotive industry faced unprecedented challenges during the pandemic years, and new data confirms these disruptions had measurable impacts on vehicle quality. The latest Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) reveals cars built during 2022 show more problems than any model year since 2009.
--FIRST CAR LIST HERE--
Study Methodology
The research analyzed feedback from 34,175 original owners of 2022 model-year vehicles across 184 specific problem areas. Issues were categorized into nine major systems:
- Climate control performance
- Advanced driving assistance systems
- Core driving experience components
- Exterior build quality
- Feature controls and displays
- Infotainment system functionality
- Interior materials and components
- Powertrain reliability
- Seat comfort and durability
Scores are calculated as problems per 100 vehicles (PP100), where lower numbers indicate better reliability.
Pandemic Production Challenges Impact Quality
The study found a 6% increase in reported problems compared to the previous year's assessment of 2021 models, rising to 202 PP100 from last year's results. This decline correlates with earlier quality surveys conducted when these vehicles were new, suggesting many issues persisted throughout ownership.
Key Factors Behind the Decline
- Supply chain disruptions: Critical component shortages led to substitutions and workarounds
- Workforce challenges: High turnover and absenteeism affected assembly quality
- Rushed production: Manufacturers prioritized volume to meet pent-up demand
- Increased complexity: New technologies introduced more potential failure points
Industry analysts note that these challenges were particularly acute for vehicles produced during the height of supply chain disruptions in early 2022.
--TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
The Software Reliability Crisis
Modern vehicles' increasing reliance on software systems has introduced new reliability challenges. Software-related complaints accounted for significant portions of overall issues, with particular pain points around smartphone integration and connectivity.
Top Software-Related Problems
| Issue Category | PP100 Score | Year-over-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | 8.4 | +2.1 |
| Bluetooth connectivity | 4.6 | +1.3 |
| Wi-Fi connectivity | 2.4 | +0.8 |
While software issues currently represent about 9% of all complaints, their impact is growing as vehicles become more technologically advanced. Over-the-air update adoption remains limited, with only 36% of owners reporting having performed an update, and just 30% of those noticing meaningful improvements.
Powertrain Reliability Comparisons
The study revealed significant differences in dependability across various propulsion systems, with traditional hybrids slightly outperforming conventional gasoline vehicles.
--SECOND CAR LIST HERE--
PP100 Scores by Powertrain Type
- Plug-in hybrids: 242 PP100 (most problematic)
- Diesel vehicles: 233 PP100
- Gasoline vehicles: 200 PP100
- Traditional hybrids: 199 PP100 (most reliable)
- Electric vehicles: 223 PP100 (improved by 33 points from 2021 models)
Electric vehicles showed the most dramatic improvement from previous years, suggesting manufacturers are addressing early reliability concerns in EV technology.
Brand Reliability Rankings
For the third consecutive year, Lexus maintained its position as the most dependable brand overall, with several mainstream brands outperforming luxury competitors.
Top Performing Brands
| Brand | PP100 Score | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Lexus | 140 | Luxury |
| Buick | 143 | Mainstream |
| Mazda | 161 | Mainstream |
| Toyota | 162 | Mainstream |
| Cadillac | 169 | Luxury |
Industry Average: 202 PP100
The full rankings reveal several surprises, with some traditional luxury brands scoring below mainstream competitors and certain European marques continuing to struggle with reliability challenges.
--FIRST CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Segment-Leading Models
Beyond brand-level rankings, the study identifies the most dependable models in each vehicle category, providing valuable insights for consumers prioritizing reliability.
Top-Ranked Vehicles 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
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
- --THIRD CAR LIST HERE--
New Model Warning
The data reveals a significant reliability gap between carryover models (196 PP100) and new or redesigned models (241 PP100). Only 4 of 27 new 2022 models outperformed their segment averages, suggesting consumers may benefit from waiting until a model's second production year.
Key Takeaways for Car Buyers
This comprehensive dependability study offers several important insights for consumers navigating today's automotive market:
Purchasing Considerations
- Prioritize proven models: Vehicles in their second or third model year generally show better reliability
- Test tech features thoroughly: Verify smartphone integration and connectivity during test drives
- Consider hybrid options: Traditional hybrids offered slightly better dependability than gas-only models
- Research specific models: Brand reputation doesn't always predict individual model reliability
As the automotive industry continues to navigate post-pandemic challenges, understanding these reliability trends can help consumers make more informed purchasing decisions and set appropriate expectations for vehicle ownership experiences.
--SECOND CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Motorvero G-queen
Last Updated On May, 18-2025