These Are the Most Reliable Vehicle Brands

In the last few days, there has been no shortage of news surrounding the car industry. As Tesla stock dropped by an extraordinary margin over just a few months, and as President Trump steps in to defend and advertise for his friend and ally, Elon Musk, many concerns are raised. Additionally, rumors continue to circulate that Tesla is one of the least reliable car brands.

Regardless of how the Tesla scandal plays out, it is no secret that dependable transportation is of the utmost importance to consumers. Reliability is one of the top qualities people look for in a vehicle. Without a reliable way to get from point A to point B, individuals are left unable to get to work or school. Important childhood factors like education are affected. In fact, absenteeism, one of the most detrimental issues affecting school age children falling behind, is due in part to transportation that is unreliable. Reliable vehicles also play a role in community engagement and social lives across America, helping people stay connected in a lonely world. At the end of the day, quality of life is greatly affected by unreliable transportation. 

To help consumers find the most reliable car brands, 24/7 Wall St. looked at car reviews and Consumer Reports data to create a list of dependable vehicle manufacturers. Consumer Reports defines reliability as performance within the first year of vehicle ownership across multiple categories, such as transmission and engine function.

(This article was updated on March 13, 2025 to reflect recent events, including plummeting Tesla stock and Trump’s support of Musk)

Why We’re Covering This

Whether used or new, cars today are quite expensive. And those price tags seem to continually go up. After making a huge purchase like this, consumers should not have to question the reliability of their vehicle. A car that needs constant repairs and frequently fails to operate properly can drastically decrease your quality of life and cause a great deal of stress. We compiled this list to help any future car buyers make smart purchases.

These are the top 9 most reliable car brands:

9. BMW

• Reliability ranking out of 100: 64

A German auto manufacturing company, BMW offers high comfort levels, new technology, and fuel efficiency. Their vehicles are fun to drive and sporty, but also practical at the right time. Choose anything from the sporty BMW Z4 to the BMW X7 for a family vehicle. While these are higher priced, they are ninth on the reliability ranking.

8. Porsche

• Reliability ranking out of 100: 66

Porsche isn’t affordable to many buyers, but that doesn’t mean these cars aren’t reliable. The company has sports models like the Cayman and the Boxster roadster, but they’ve also branched into sedans and SUVs. Porsche only uses premium products and with regular maintenance and servicing these cars are extremely reliable. Most report that a Porsche will last 10 years or 150,000 miles with little need for repair. If your budget allows it, consider the Cayenne, the Taycan, or the Panamera.

7. Mazda

• Reliability ranking out of 100: 67

The company makes fun-to-drive cars, yet relies on efficient engine technology and lightweight construction for more fuel efficiency. These cars handle the road better than expected and come in a diverse range, from sports cars all the way to SUVs. Mazda also offers a hybrid SUV. Some names you may recognize include the Miata, the CX-5, and the retired Tribute.

6. Subaru

• Reliability ranking out of 100: 69

Subaru is a Japanese automaker known for practical, affordable, and unpretentious all-wheel-drive vehicles. They have easy access, roomy interiors, intuitive controls, great visibility, and good fuel economy. Subaru consistently ranks high in reliability, from the Impreza sedan to the Outback SUV.

5. Honda

Reliability ranking out of 100: 70

Honda offers an engaging driving experience and a competitive fuel economy through energetic powertrain technology. Models that consumers love include the Odyssey van, the CR-V small SUB, the Pilot SUV, and the Accord sedan. They hold their value, meet high safety standards, and have low repair costs. Many drivers have seen Hondas pass several hundred thousand miles with minimal repairs.

4. Acura

Reliability ranking out of 100: 70

Acura is the premium brand of Honda and makes both cars and SUVs with similar technology. These vehicles are known for their fuel efficiency ratings, low repair costs, and notable safety features. Consumers only had one complaint with the Acura — the controls are sometimes frustrating. While the Acura is a luxury brand, it’s more affordable than other luxury vehicles, making them more accessible to the average consumer. Choose from the TLX, the RDX, the MDX, and many others.

3. Mini

Reliability ranking out of 100: 71

The Mini is engineered and designed by BMW and comes in third on the reliability scale. Offering the charm of a British vehicle that’s available all over the world, the brand is shifting its focus to electrics. This means the new Mini Cooper will be followed in 2025 by the electric Countryman. Mini also makes the Paceman, the Cooper Clubman, and the Aceman.

2. Toyota

Reliability ranking out of 100: 76

Toyota vehicles are known for being reliable, efficient, and solid. Consumers rave about the easy access, quiet cabins, impressive gas mileage, and comfortable rides. The company is currently working on a new Tacoma and Land Cruiser, and a redesigned Camry. These models come with a hybrid option to balance efficiency and power. Popular Toyotas include the Corolla, the Prius, the 4Runner, and the Highlander.

1. Lexus

Reliability ranking out of 100: 79

Lexus claims to have a flawless quality control process, and they may be right since they came in first in the report. The company subjects each car to a rigorous testing protocol to make sure they all meet the high standards. Lexus was built and developed by Toyota, one of the most respected automakers in the business. Lexus functions as the luxury version of Toyota and includes the ES, ES Hybrid, NX, NX Hybrid, RX, RX Hybrid, and the UX.

As you set off on your search to find the right car, remember that it doesn’t have to be brand new to be reliable. While many of those discussed here are newer models, the beauty of a reliable car is that it holds its resale value and will last through several owners. A used car can be just as valuable as a brand-new car and can save you thousands, but we encourage you to stick with a brand in the top ten on the reliability factor.

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