Ratings Methodology
At J.D. Power, we base our independent and unbiased ratings, reviews, and awards on detailed survey feedback from verified car owners each year to uncover and understand their experiences over the first three-months of ownership and, subsequently, their experiences over the first three-years of ownership. For real insider knowledge, our surveys cover vehicle attributes such as quality and reliability, driving experience, and the car dealership experience (buying and servicing the car). We even factor in resale value, using our industry-leading valuations data. Every detail matters!
Once we've collected the feedback and categorized it into specific price range (luxury vs. non-luxury) and car size (compact, small, midsize, and large), we start crunching the numbers. Ratings are calculated by the distance between the specific model attribute to the average score of the same category or peer group.
From the collection, categorization, and formation of these scores comes the J.D. Power Consumer Verified Ratings. These ratings are given to each model per year, including an overall rating as well as sub-ratings for quality and reliability (40%), driving experience (20%), resale value (20%), and dealership experience (20%).
All ratings on the site (past and current) are updated when the new models are introduced to the market, as their data provides new baselines. Older model ratings are subject to change as new data is available.
For current model year data, prior year information is used until all data is updated in September each year. For example, 2023 model year vehicle ratings are based on model year 2022 data until the September update of 2023. For models that are not redesigned, this “carryover” data is an accurate reflection of the following year performance.
In the case of redesigned models with multiple all-new components and significant appearance changes versus its prior model year, the previous year's rating is applied since on average prior year information is still the best estimate. However, model redesign ratings should be used with caution. These vehicles have the latest styling, technology and other components, but are unproven in their first year and can be less reliable than their predecessor.
For all-new models with an architecture new to the market and not sold under another name in the past, ratings are not available in their first year. J.D. Power ratings are based on real owners' opinions, and enough people need to purchase this model to meet the rigorous survey standards behind the ratings. Regardless, all-new models are exciting and worth considering if you want the most innovative styling and technology.