MX Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS)
The Benchmark for Long-Term Vehicle Dependability
The MX Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) measures the problems experienced by original owners of 3-year-old vehicles. 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.
A Complete View of Long-Term Dependability
Evaluates owner-reported problems across nine vehicle systems:
• Problem symptoms and frequency (PP100)
• Component failures and replacements
Includes:
• Diagnostics by make and model
• Industry and segment benchmarking
How the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) Works
• Surveys original owners of 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.
Stronger Reliability, Higher Confidence
• Pinpoints chronic issues that emerge during warranty years
• Identifies components that most impact satisfaction and resale value
• Provides trusted rankings used by consumers and media
• Supports supplier quality improvement and component redesign
• Creates annual rankings and awards-licensing opportunities for top-performing brands
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
Key Dates
2026
Fielding: Nov 2025 – Aug 2026
Publish: Nov tbd, 2026
Press Release: Nov tbd, 2026
2027
Fielding: Nov 2026 – July 2027
Publish: November 4, 2027
Press Release: November 4, 2027
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.
Profiled Brands
Entry Premium
Mercedes-Benz CLA
Mercedes-Benz A-Class
BMW 2 Series
Mid Premium
BMW 3 Series
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Premium SUV
Volvo XC60
GMC Yukon
Mercedes-Benz GLA
Volvo XC90
Mercedes-Benz GLB
Premium Pickup
GMC Sierra
GMC Canyon
Upper Sub-Compact
Fiat Argo
JAC E 10X
Dodge Nuevo Attitude
Compact
CUPRA Leon
BYD Han
Omoda O5
Midsize
Toyota Camry
Dodge Charger
Sporty
Ford Mustang
Entry SUV
JAC Sei4/Sei4 Pro
Fiat FASTBACK
Compact SUV
BYD Dolphin
Great Wall Motor HAVAL H6
Peugeot 3008
Ford Escape Híbrida
SEAT Ateca
BYD Tang
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Ford Escape
CUPRA Ateca
Great Wall Motor TANK 300
Midsize SUV
Ford Explorer
Ford Bronco
SEAT Tarraco
Fullsize SUV
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Ford Expedition
Minivan
Toyota Sienna
Midsize Pickup
Ford Maverick
Nissan Frontier
Great Wall Motor POER
Van
Peugeot RIFTER
JAC SUNRAY
Ford E-Transit
Designed for Quality and Value Leaders
• OEM quality and engineering organizations
• Residual value and remarketing analysts
• Marketing teams (awards and messaging)
• 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.
