Best and Worst Brands for Quality in 2023 According to J.D. Power
Once again this year, the quality of new vehicles keeps declining. In fact, the number of problems reported by owners is the highest in 37 years according to J.D. Power’s 2023 Initial Quality Study (IQS) released this week.
The industry average is 192 problems per 100 vehicles, up from 180 in 2022.
- Also: 2024 Chevrolet Traverse Loses V6, Gains Rugged Z71 Model
- Also: New-Vehicle Owner Satisfaction Keeps Sinking, Study Finds
The J.D. Power Initial Quality Study is based this year on responses from 93,380 purchasers and lessees of new 2023 model-year vehicles who were surveyed early in the ownership period. It covers nine vehicle categories: infotainment; features, controls and displays; exterior; driving assistance; interior; powertrain; seats; driving experience; and climate.
New in-car technologies remain the biggest source of owner-reported problems, such as Android Auto/Apple CarPlay integration, wireless smartphone charging and touchscreens/displays. The numerous driver-assist features also frustrate a lot of people, with lane keeping assist at the top of the list. That being said, owners are increasingly satisfied with mobile apps offered by automakers, especially when it comes to EVs.
Seemingly trivial stuff can cause problems, too. J.D. Power gave a few examples, such as glitchy door handles (those on EV models in particular), poor sounding horns, and cupholders that don’t serve their purpose.
Now, what are the best and worst brands for initial quality in 2023? Check out our photo gallery to see the results. Some will quite surprise you.