When Consumer Reports (CR) publishes its annual reliability survey, it’s all the time a headline-grabber. This 12 months, Subaru topped the rankings, overtaking longtime leaders Lexus and Toyota. General Motors and Rivian, however, found themselves at the underside. But beyond the rankings lies a deeper story—one which raises critical questions on the validity of the information behind these much-anticipated rankings.
While the CR report can provide worthwhile insights, the methodology and scope of its reliability data appear to be facing significant challenges. Let’s explore what this 12 months’s survey reveals, where it falls short, and what it means for consumers looking for dependable guidance on buying their next vehicle.
What Consumer Reports Got Right
Subaru’s rise to the highest isn’t entirely surprising. The brand has built a status for dependability, with its models often featuring shared components across the lineup. This 12 months, the Forester and Impreza received glowing reviews for “well-above-average” reliability, while the Crosstrek, Legacy, Outback, and Ascent also performed well.
Toyota and Lexus, perennial favorites, slipped barely on account of issues with redesigned models just like the Tacoma, Tundra, and bZ4X EV. Even Lexus wasn’t immune, with models just like the RX and NX facing hiccups. Nonetheless, the survey still underscores that these brands remain among the many safest bets for reliability, despite their recent stumbles.
A Data Problem?
While the rankings offer helpful trends, a better have a look at Consumer Reports’ data reveals glaring issues. The survey draws from responses on roughly 300,000 vehicles spanning 25 model years—a decent number, but one which’s shrinking. CR’s 2024 survey received about 10% fewer responses than last 12 months’s, which itself was already a reduced sample in comparison with a long time past.
The shrinking pool raises critical concerns:
- Minimal Sample Sizes: CR not discloses the minimum variety of responses needed to incorporate a vehicle within the rankings. As an example, Cadillac’s rating is predicated on just two of its seven vehicles. What concerning the best-selling XT5 or second-best XT4? There’s simply no data.
- Missing Models: Major vehicles just like the GMC Acadia and Terrain—about 20% of GMC’s sales—are excluded entirely. Similar omissions include popular models comparable to the Jeep Compass, Ford F-250, BMW X5, and Acura TLX.
- Entire Brands Absent: Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Infiniti, Jaguar, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Mini, Mitsubishi, Porsche, and RAM didn’t make the cut in any respect. Some omissions, like Fiat (with just one model in its lineup), are comprehensible. But Mercedes-Benz and Land Rover? Their exclusion is harder to justify, especially given their prominence in the luxurious market.
The Self-Fulfilling Survey Cycle
One other issue with CR’s methodology lies in its subscriber-based model. The survey relies exclusively on data from CR members, making a feedback loop that would skew results. Loyal Toyota and Lexus owners, for instance, usually tend to subscribe to Consumer Reports, report on their cars, and persist with the brands. Meanwhile, owners of less-reliable or lower-volume brands is perhaps underrepresented—or absent entirely—on account of a dwindling subscriber base.
The result? Brands labeled “unreliable” or “average” by CR may suffer from limited exposure within the survey, making a cycle that daunts representation for those brands.
EVs, Hybrids, and the Reliability Puzzle
This 12 months’s survey shines a highlight on hybrids and EVs. Hybrids remain amongst probably the most reliable vehicles, with models just like the Toyota Corolla Hybrid and Lexus NX Hybrid earning top marks. But plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and full EVs proceed to face reliability challenges.
CR found that EVs, on average, have 42% more problems than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, often tied to issues with batteries, charging systems, and advanced electronics. The Rivian R1T and Ford F-150 Lightning, for instance, ranked “well-below-average” in reliability despite their popularity. Meanwhile, plug-in hybrids just like the Mazda CX-90 PHEV fared poorly in comparison with their ICE counterparts.
CR Can Still be Reliable… In Some Ways
Consumer Reports’ reliability rankings have long been a trusted resource for automotive buyers, however the survey’s limitations have gotten harder to disregard. Because the variety of responses shrinks and full models or brands are not noted, the rankings may not provide the great insight they once did.
The rationale? It’s easy: fewer subscribers. Consumer Reports relies on its membership base for data, and as subscriptions decline, so does the reliability of its findings.
Unfortunately, there’s no easy solution. Automakers hold probably the most comprehensive reliability data, but they’ve little incentive to share it. Until something changes, consumers may have to navigate reliability surveys with a healthy dose of skepticism.
What’s the Takeaway for Automobile Buyers?
Consumer Reports still offers worthwhile insights, however the gaps in its data mean buyers must approach the rankings with caution. Look beyond brand rankings and dig deeper into model-specific reliability reports. And don’t forget to contemplate other sources, comparable to JD Power’s studies or long-term ownership reviews, for a fuller picture of a vehicle’s dependability.
While Subaru could also be this 12 months’s reliability king, and Toyota and Lexus remain solid picks, the actual winner is an informed buyer who takes the time to query the numbers and research thoroughly. In spite of everything, probably the most reliable guide to your next automotive might just be you.
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This Article First Appeared At www.automotiveaddicts.com
