CA Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS)
The Benchmark for Long-Term Vehicle Dependability
The Canada Vehicle Dependability (VDS) Study measures the problems experienced by original owners of 1-3-year-old vehicles. In the Canadian market, VDS also includes APEAL data, which evaluates which features, functionality and design owners of these vehicles enjoy. As one of the most trusted indicators of long-term quality, VDS helps manufacturers design more durable products that retain value and strengthen brand loyalty.
What It Measures
A Complete View of Long-Term Dependability
Evaluates owner-reported problems across nine vehicle systems:
• Component failures and replacements
Includes:
• Diagnostics by make and model including APEAL ratings
• Industry and segment benchmarking
How It Works
How the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) Works
• Surveys original owners of 1-3-year-old vehicles
• Captures problem frequency, component failures, and long-term satisfaction
• Complements IQS by showing how early-life quality evolves over time
• Feeds Component Dependability Reports, while APEAL rating can influence design and content choices
Core Strengths
Stronger Reliability, Higher Confidence
• Pinpoints chronic issues that emerge during warranty years
• Identifies components that most impact satisfaction and resale value
• Supports supplier quality improvement and component redesign
• Creates annual rankings
Business Impact
Improve Durability, Protect Resale Value
• Leads to more reliable products with fewer long-term failures
• Strengthens brand perception for dependability
• Drives higher residual values and customer retention
• Improves supplier accountability and component performance
Press Release & Award Information
JD Power issues a national press release highlighting key findings and top-to-bottom rankings from the study. The brand(s) that rank highest in each award-eligible segment and meet predetermined award criteria will have the opportunity to enter into a licensing agreement through the JD Power Awards Program, which requires subscribing to the study as a prerequisite. Entering into a licensing agreement provides top-ranked brands with the valuable opportunity to market their award-winning performance. As the trusted symbol of excellence, JD Power Awards enhance brand perceptions, drive consumer preference, and differentiate awarded brands in competitive marketplaces.
Who Should Use It
Designed for Quality and Value Leaders
• OEM quality and engineering organizations
• Residual value and remarketing analysts
• Tier 1 suppliers monitoring component performance
Insights Available at a Touch of a Button
Subscribers have full access to benchmark reporting, competitor analysis, and more, all at the touch of a button.
