J.D. Power has released the results of their 2025 Vehicle Dependability Study and Lexus is #1 for the third straight year. The study looks at vehicle problems during the first three years of ownership and Lexus’ score of just 140 problems per 100 vehicles was far below the industry average of 202 problems per 100 vehicles.
According to J.D. Power, “Vehicle problems after three years of ownership have reached the highest level since 2009, according to the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Vehicle Dependability StudySM (VDS), released today. Compared with 2024 results, the industry experiences a 6% increase in problems per 100 vehicles (PP100), which is 12 PP100 worse than a year ago, resulting in an industry average of 202 PP100. The rise in problems is attributable to mass market brands experiencing a 16 PP100 increase related in part to software defects. A lower score indicates higher vehicle quality.”
“While the increase in problems this year may be a thorn in the side of automakers and owners, it’s important to remember that today’s three-year-old vehicles were built during a time when the industry was grappling with major disruptions,” said Jason Norton, director of auto benchmarking at J.D. Power. “Supply chain issues, record-high vehicle prices, and personnel disruption in the wake of the pandemic were problematic.”
The study, now in its 36th year, covers 184 specific problem areas across nine major vehicle categories: climate; driving assistance; driving experience; exterior; features/controls/displays; infotainment; interior; powertrain; and seats.
Lexus’ highest ranked vehicle was the GX 460, which was the most dependable midsize premium SUV followed by the Lexus RX.
Source: J.D. Power