Study

U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS)

IQS Hero

Study Details

Data Available Monthly

Since 1987, the JD Power U.S. Initial Quality StudySM (IQS) has served as the auto industry standard for benchmarking new vehicle quality. The latest evolution is no exception.

Uniting newly acquired, state-of-the-art vehicle repair data with our traditional Voice of the Customer data, the enhanced IQS delivers automakers the ability to quickly identify potential issues early on before they become bigger problems in the quality landscape.

And for the first time ever, the enhanced IQS enables OEMs to access data updated on a monthly basis. This revolutionary change empowers automakers to make better and more informed decisions in guiding product improvements throughout, rather than only between, model years.

The Benefits

Study subscribers will understand:

  • Which models provide the most problem-free experience
  • Quality differences based on origin
  • Quality differences across model years 
  • Quality variability across brand portfolios
  • Quality expectations across different customer groups
  • Product priorities for future model development 
  • Which plant assembly lines produce the most problem-free models
Modern vehicles displayed in a showroom highlighting advanced technology features that contribute to infotainment‑related problems identified in the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study.

The Scope

The study examines 227 problems, which are organized into nine categories:

  • Climate
  • Driving Assistance
  • Driving Experience
  • Exterior
  • Features/Controls/Displays (FCD)
  • Infotainment
  • Interior
  • Powertrain
  • Seats

In addition to this Voice of the Customer data, vehicle repair visits are integrated into the scoring to provide an even more comprehensive picture of product quality.

Modern vehicles displayed highlighting advanced technology features that contribute to infotainment‑related problems identified in the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study.

2026 Key Dates

Fielding

June 2025 – May 2026

Publish

Monthly: July 2025 — May 2026
Annual: June 23, 2026

Press Release

June 25, 2026

Press Release & Award Information

JD Power will issue 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. 
 

Read the latest Press Release >
Learn More about IQS Awards >
Learn More about all JD Power Awards >
Find Out about JD Power Performance Reports >

Press release and award info

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