Domestic auto brands had a higher initial quality score than their import competitors for the first time, according to J.D. Power and Associates’ 2010 U.S. Initial Quality Study.
The industry average for initial quality is 109 problems per 100 (PP100) vehicles in 2010, up one point from 108 in 2009. Initial quality for U.S. brands increased four points in 2010 to an average of 108 PP100, which is higher than import brands’ score of 109 PP100 this year.
Ford ranked fifth in J.D. Powers’ list of automotive brands and initial quality.
"Domestic automakers have made impressive strides in steadily improving vehicle quality, particularly since 2007," said David Sargent, vice president of global vehicle research at J.D. Power and Associates. "This year may mark a key turning point for U.S. brands as they continue to fight the battle against lingering negative perceptions of their quality. However, there is still a long road ahead, and domestic manufacturers need to consistently prove to consumers that they can produce models with quality that equals or beats that of the import brands."
The 2010 Initial Quality Study is based on responses from more than 82,000 purchasers and lessees of new 2010 model-year vehicles surveyed after 90 days of ownership. The study was conducted between February and May 2010 and has been done annually for the past 24 years.
These types of surveys can be very helpful to car shoppers to help them narrow down their choices or even choose one automotive brand over another.
2010 Nameplate IQS Ranking / Problems per 100 Vehicles
Porsche 83
Acura 86
Mercedes-Benz 87
Lexus 88
Ford 93
Honda 95
Hyundai 102
Lincoln 106
Infiniti 107
Volvo 109
Industry Average 109
Ram 110
Audi 111
Cadillac 111
Chevrolet 111
Nissan 111
BMW 113
Mercury 113
Buick 114
Mazda 114
Scion 114
Toyota 117
Subaru 121
Chrysler 122
Suzuki 122
GMC 126
Kia 126
Jeep 129
Dodge 130
Jaguar 130
MINI 133
Volkswagen 135
Mitsubishi 146
Land Rover 170
