When you’re in the market for a new car, knowing which brands are the most reliable can save you a lot of headaches down the road. Reliability isn’t only about avoiding breakdowns, it’s also about enjoying the drive without the fear of surprise repairs.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of the 10 most reliable car brands that consistently deliver quality and durability. Take a look at these 10 and see what you think.

10. Acura

2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid
Image Credit: Acura.

Acura stands out in the realm of reliable cars, boasting a figure of just 211 problems per 100 vehicles. An impressive feat for any car brand! The annual maintenance and repair costs average around $501, which is quite reasonable for luxury vehicles. Models like the TLX, MDX, and RDX are pillars of Acura’s high reliability scores.

9. Buick

The 2013 Buick Verano on display at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show
Image Credit: YaromirM/Shutterstock.

Buick, an American classic, impressively records only 159 problems per 100 vehicles. Despite its transition to an all-SUV lineup in 2023, Buick has maintained its focus on reliability. In fact, alongside Lincoln, Buick is one of only two American brands in the top 15 most reliable car brands of 2023, according to Consumer Reports. With an average reliability score of 54 out of 100, Buick shows that dependability and American luxury can go hand in hand.

8. Hyundai

2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid
Image Credit: Hyundai.

Hyundai, with 170 problems per 100 vehicles, is a brand that’s earned the affection of its owners. The Santa Fe Hybrid, for instance, is not just a reliable hybrid; it’s one of the best in the market, as indicated by its 4.8 out of 5 reliability rating from Kelley Blue Book (KBB). The Ioniq 5, a relatively new all-electric offering, has quickly established a reliability score of 4.6 out of 5.

7. Honda

2012 Honda Accord
Image Credit: Honda.

Honda’s reputation for reliability is well-deserved, with only 205 problems per 100 vehicles. RepairPal states that the average annual cost for Honda repairs is just over $400, significantly lower than the industry average.

The average Honda owner typically needs unscheduled repairs only once every three years. Top-ranking models include the Accord, Accord Hybrid, Passport, and Civic.

6. Lexus

2023 Lexus ES 300h
Image Credit: Lexus.

Lexus, with 133 problems per 100 vehicles, is a paragon of reliability, matching Toyota’s impressive score of 72 out of 100 on Consumer Reports. The Lexus GX stands out with a 91/100 reliability score, making it the second most reliable car model in the survey. The Lexus NX and several other models boost the brand’s reputatio

5. Mini

Mini Cooper
Image Credit: WikiCommons.

Mini, known for its unique design and driving dynamics, records 170 problems per 100 vehicles. While Minis might be slightly more expensive to maintain (about $33,000 over five years), their reliability is above average, with Consumer Reports giving them a 71 out of 100 reliability ranking.

4. Toyota

2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
Image Credit: Toyota.

Toyota, with 168 problems per 100 vehicles, leads the pack in reliability, scoring 76 out of 100 in Consumer Reports’ Predicted Reliability Ranking. The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid, with a 93/100 reliability score, tops the list as the most reliable model. The entire Toyota range, including the Prius and Prius Prime, is known for its dependability.

3. Subaru

Subaru EJ20
Image Credit: NLFILMS OFFICIAL/Shutterstock.

Subaru, despite its higher problem rate of 214 per 100 vehicles, still scores a respectable 59 out of 100 in Consumer Reports’ reliability survey. The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek leads the brand with 80 points, closely followed by the Forester at 75 points. Other models like the Impreza, Outback, Legacy, and Ascent offer average reliability.

2. Kia

Kia Stinger
Image Credit: WikiCommons.

Kia shines with just 152 problems per 100 vehicles and an impressive overall reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0 from RepairPal. Consumer Reports adds to this with a score of 54 out of 100. Kia’s standout models include the Carnival, EV6, and Telluride.

1. Mazda

Mazda MX-30
Image Credit: Mazda.

Mazda tops the list with 174 problems per 100 vehicles. The MX-5 Miata leads Mazda’s lineup with an 85 reliability score, ranking as the fifth most reliable car in the Consumer Reports survey. Other models like the CX-3 and CX-5 excel in the SUV category, highlighting Mazda’s ability to combine enjoyable driving dynamics with reliable performance.

Author: Josh Clark

Title: Founder

Expertise: Automotive, Home and Garden, Travel

Josh Clark is a car fanatic and founder of The Bearded Bunch. Give him a free Saturday, and he'll spend the entire day working on his truck and loving every minute of it.

Josh grew up with a dad that also loves cars, so his obsession was woven into his genetics. From maintenance tips to classic cars, Josh covers a number of topics that any gearhead can appreciate.

Similar Posts