The reliability of a car is one of the main criteria that buyers consider when choosing a vehicle. This concept includes the ability of a car to maintain its performance over a long period of time, minimising the likelihood of breakdowns and malfunctions. A reliable car requires less repair and maintenance, making it more cost-effective in the long run.
Factors affecting machine reliability
Quality of assembly and materials. The reliability of a car depends largely on the quality of the assembly and the materials used. Well-known manufacturers such as Toyota, Honda and Lexus pay particular attention to these aspects, enabling their models to consistently top reliability ratings.
Technology and innovation. Modern cars are equipped with a wide range of electronic systems and features that can both increase and decrease their reliability. For example, high quality safety and control systems can significantly extend the life of a car, while poorly designed technological solutions can cause frequent breakdowns.
Service and maintenance. Even the most reliable vehicles need regular maintenance. Timely oil and filter changes and inspections help prevent serious breakdowns and extend the life of your vehicle.
Operating conditions. The conditions in which a car is driven also affect its reliability. Harsh climates, bad roads or frequent off-road driving can shorten the life of a car. For such conditions, models with reinforced suspension and proven four-wheel drive systems, such as the Toyota Land Cruiser or Subaru Outback, are often recommended.
The benefits of a reliable vehicle
- Lower repair costs. Reliable cars require less investment in repairs because their key components and systems are designed to last.
- High residual value. Reliable cars depreciate more slowly on the used car market, making them a worthwhile investment.
- Safety. A car that breaks down less often makes the driver and passengers safer on the road.
Reliability rating and evaluation
Car reliability ratings are compiled by analysing breakdown statistics, owner reviews and expert testing. Recently, the UK car portal What Car? conducted an annual survey of nearly 30,000 car owners. They divided the most reliable cars up to five years old into several categories depending on body type and class.
The result is the top 5 most reliable cars in the world:
Most reliable compact crossover
The British Mini Countryman was named the most reliable compact crossover according to the survey results. Its reliability was estimated at 99.7%, the highest in its class. According to owners, only 2% of cars experienced problems - most of which were body-related and quickly rectified at the manufacturer's expense.
Most reliable electric car
Among the electric cars, the Mini Electric came out on top in terms of reliability. According to the survey results, its reliability is 98%. The compact electric car is popular with buyers due to the use of proven BMW technologies and high build quality, while its minimal maintenance requirements make it easy to use.
Most reliable executive car
The Most Reliable Executive Car title went to the Lexus ES, which outperformed all of its German premium rivals. Only % of ES owners reported problems and breakdowns, and these tended to be related to the navigation and infotainment systems.
Most reliable family crossover
In the Family SUV category, the title of Most Reliable went to the previous generation Japanese Lexus NX crossover, produced between 2014 and 2021. Not a single Lexus NX owner who took part in the survey reported any breakdowns or problems with the vehicle, meaning no unexpected repair bills.
The most reliable cabriolets and coupes
The Porsche 718 Boxster / Cayman has the highest reliability of all convertibles and coupés. Its score is 99.3%. Only 6% of these cars had any faults, all of which were body related and most of which took less than a day to repair.
Most reliable family car
In the family car category, the petrol version of the previous generation Skoda Octavia comes out on top with a reliability score of 99%. According to the survey, only 99,3% of owners of these cars experienced breakdowns, all of which were minor and took less than a working day to fix.
The most reliable electric crossover
99.2% rated the reliability of the Tesla Model Y. Only4 % of these cars failed and all were repaired free of charge. Three-quarters of the cars were repaired on the same day and the rest were repaired in less than a week.
A car's reliability is a key factor that has a direct impact on its usability, safety and maintenance costs. Choosing a reliable car not only saves you money on repairs, but also gives you the confidence that the car will not let you down in a critical situation.
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Photos: pixabay.com, DOM
