2026 Reliability Survey Results
About this episode
The latest reliability survey results reveal significant shifts in automotive reliability, particularly highlighting Tesla's rise into the top 10 for new car reliability, despite its poor standing for used cars. The discussion also covers Mazda's drop in reliability due to new models, Toyota's consistent top ranking, and the impact of electrification on vehicle reliability. The hosts emphasize the importance of understanding the differences between new and used car reliability and share insights on owner satisfaction, particularly with brands like Rivian. The episode concludes with practical maintenance tips for DIY enthusiasts.
Consumer Reports' latest reliability findings are in, we share which brands deliver the most reliable cars, trucks, and SUVs in 2026—based on comprehensive survey data from hundreds of thousands of CR members. We break down how major automakers, including Toyota, Tesla, Subaru, Rivian, BMW, Mazda, and Honda, compare; how EVs and plug-in hybrids stack up against traditional gas models; which used cars offer the most dependable performance; and whether luxury brands truly provide an advantage over their mainstream counterparts. We also address why some automakers place the gas cap on the passenger side of their vehicles and offer advice on simple maintenance tasks you can perform yourself to help reduce car-related expenses.
SHOW NOTES
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00:00 - Introduction
00:30 - New Car Reliability
02:51 - Used Car Reliability
05:57 - Big News
06:40 - Cars Least Expensive to Maintain
08:22 - EVs/ Plug-in Hybrids Reliability
10:04 - Hybrid Vehicle Reliability
11:34 - Owner Satisfaction
13:18 - Importance of Car Reliability
15:27 - How CR Gathers Reliability Data
19:55 - Question #1: Why do some car manufacturers put the gas cap on the passenger side and others on the driver side?
23:09 - Question #2: Which simple maintenance tasks can car owners perform on their own to help reduce car-related expenses?
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Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars?
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Which Brands Make the Best Cars?
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Reliability of 5 to 10 year-old cars
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/which-brands-make-the-best-used-cars-a2811658468/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Most and Least Loved Car Brands
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-liked-car-brands-a1291429338/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
10 Most Reliable Cars
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/10-most-reliable-cars-a6569295379/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
How Car Brands Stack Up On Lifetime Repair Cost
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
10 Best SUVs You Can Buy Right Now
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/10-best-suvs-you-can-buy-right-now-a8518508556/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Car Reliability and Owner Satisfaction Guide
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/guide-to-car-reliability-owner-satisfaction-a9213219653/
Consumerreports.org/Talkingcars
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/talking-cars-podcast-archive-a1439738009/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Tesla Model S
"... because in the past, they've had issues with the Model S, the Model X, there's just a bunch of features an..."
Tesla Model X
"...issues with the Model S, the Model X, there's just a bunch of features and a ton of stuff in those cars."
The Tesla Model X is an electric SUV that has unique doors that open upwards. It has had some quality issues in the past, but it's known for being spacious and high-tech.
The Tesla Model X is an all-electric SUV known for its distinctive falcon-wing doors and spacious interior. Like the Model S, it has faced some reliability concerns, particularly in its early production years.
Tesla Model 3
"and a ton of stuff in those cars. And the Model 3 and the Model Y had build quality issues. Example..."
Tesla Model Y
"...the Model 3 and the Model Y had build quality issues. Examples of pieces of hair being in the paint or mismatch panels, that's in the past."
The Tesla Model Y is an electric SUV that is similar to the Model 3 but larger. It had some quality issues when it first came out, but those have been addressed in newer models.
The Tesla Model Y is a compact all-electric SUV that shares many components with the Model 3. It has also faced similar build quality issues during its initial production phase.
Mazda CX-70
"...they introduced the CX 90 a couple of years ago, the CX 70. These are ground up, you know, rear wheel drive platforms,..."
The Mazda CX-70 is another SUV from Mazda, similar to the CX-90, but it may be smaller or have different features. It also drives the rear wheels, which helps with handling.
The Mazda CX-70 is another SUV introduced by Mazda, designed to complement the CX-90. It shares the same focus on performance and comfort with a rear-wheel-drive architecture.
Mazda CX-90
"...they introduced the CX 90 a couple of years ago, the CX 70. These are ground up, you know, rear wheel drive platforms,..."
The Mazda CX-90 is a type of SUV made by Mazda. It has a design that allows for better handling and performance because it drives the rear wheels instead of the front ones, which is common in many cars.
The Mazda CX-90 is a mid-size SUV that features a rear-wheel-drive platform, providing a different driving experience compared to traditional front-wheel-drive vehicles. It was introduced as part of Mazda's new generation of vehicles, focusing on performance and comfort.
turbo
"...they got the turbos, you know, they're all throughout the line. So, yeah, it's it's it's more about the company changing..."
A turbo is a part of some car engines that helps them produce more power by forcing in more air. This makes the car faster and more efficient.
A turbo, or turbocharger, is a device that forces more air into the engine's combustion chamber, allowing it to burn more fuel and produce more power. This technology is commonly used in modern vehicles to enhance performance and efficiency without significantly increasing engine size.
Mazda
"...the more recent Mazdas like we did the older Mazdas, if you will. Yeah. Any other big news in there?"
Mazda is a car company from Japan that makes various types of vehicles, including sporty cars. They are known for creating cars that are enjoyable to drive.
Mazda is a Japanese automaker known for its innovative designs and engineering, particularly in the sports car segment with models like the MX-5 Miata. The brand has a reputation for producing vehicles that are fun to drive and often feature unique technologies such as the Wankel rotary engine.
Toyota Tacoma
"...over the redesigned Tundra and Tacoma, they are better now. The Tacoma is above average."
The Toyota Tacoma is a smaller pickup truck that many people use for work or outdoor activities. It's known for being tough and reliable.
The Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck known for its durability and off-road capabilities. It's popular among consumers looking for a reliable vehicle that can handle both daily driving and rugged terrain.
Toyota Tundra
"...over the redesigned Tundra and Tacoma, they are better now."
The Toyota Tundra is a larger pickup truck that can carry heavy loads and is often used for towing. It's built to be strong and reliable.
The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck that offers a blend of power, capability, and comfort. It's designed for both work and leisure, making it a versatile choice for truck buyers.
Toyota Camry
"...the Camry redesign last year has improved."
The Toyota Camry is a popular car that many people drive for commuting. It's known for being dependable and getting good gas mileage.
The Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan known for its reliability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. It's one of the best-selling cars in the United States due to its reputation for quality and value.
Buick
"Yeah. I think you said, too, Buick and Lincoln are up there in brand."
Buick is a car brand that makes comfortable cars, often seen as a step up from regular brands but not as expensive as some luxury brands.
Buick is an American automobile brand known for producing comfortable and well-equipped vehicles. It often targets the luxury market while maintaining a focus on affordability in maintenance.
Lincoln
"So Buick and Lincoln are that's another interesting list is we look at maintenance and repair costs."
Lincoln is a luxury car brand from Ford, making high-end vehicles that are designed for comfort and style.
Lincoln is the luxury vehicle division of Ford, known for its high-end cars and SUVs that emphasize comfort and technology. It is often compared to other luxury brands.
Ford parts
"And it's really just utilizing Ford parts, which are inexpensive."
Ford parts are the pieces that make up Ford cars. Lincoln uses these parts, which helps keep the cost of fixing and maintaining them lower.
Ford parts refer to components and accessories manufactured by Ford for use in their vehicles. Using Ford parts in Lincoln vehicles helps keep maintenance costs lower due to their availability and affordability.
maintenance and repair costs
"And in maintenance repair is one of those. Now, previously, actually, it was Tesla that we were looking at five..."
These are the costs you pay to keep your car running well, like oil changes and fixing broken parts.
Maintenance and repair costs refer to the expenses associated with keeping a vehicle in good working condition, including routine servicing and unexpected repairs.
Hyundai
"But, yeah, they were kind of out pointed. It was it's Buick and Lincoln and even Toyota and Hyundai."
Hyundai is a car company from South Korea that makes affordable cars that are known for being reliable and stylish.
Hyundai is a South Korean automobile manufacturer known for producing affordable and reliable vehicles with modern designs.
reliable
"I think it's exactly what you said. You know, it's it's a combination of being reliable, but it's also a combination of having parts that are cheap."
When a car is reliable, it means it usually works well and doesn't break down often.
In the context of vehicles, 'reliable' refers to a car's ability to perform consistently well without frequent breakdowns or issues.
timing belts
"There's not a lot of you're not changing timing belts and spark plugs and all that."
A timing belt is a part in a car's engine that helps keep everything moving in sync. If it breaks, it can cause serious engine problems.
A timing belt is a crucial component in an internal combustion engine that synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft. It ensures that the engine's valves open and close at the proper times during each cylinder's intake and exhaust strokes.
spark plugs
"There's not a lot of you're not changing timing belts and spark plugs and all that."
Spark plugs are small parts in a car engine that create a spark to help start the engine. They need to be changed from time to time to keep the engine running well.
Spark plugs are essential components in gasoline engines that ignite the air-fuel mixture, allowing the engine to produce power. They need to be replaced periodically to maintain engine performance and efficiency.
EVs
"...when we talk about EVs and plug-in hybrids, they tend to be about 80 percent more problematic than gas cars when you look at the last three years."
EVs are cars that run only on electricity instead of gas. They use batteries to power an electric motor.
EVs, or electric vehicles, are cars that are powered entirely by electricity, using batteries instead of gasoline or diesel. They are part of the broader trend toward electrification in the automotive industry.
plug-in hybrids
"...when we talk about EVs and plug-in hybrids, they tend to be about 80 percent more problematic than gas cars when you look at the last three years."
Plug-in hybrids are cars that can use both electricity and gas. You can charge them like an electric car, but they also have a gas engine for longer trips.
Plug-in hybrids are vehicles that combine a traditional gasoline engine with an electric motor and a rechargeable battery. They can run on electric power alone for a certain distance before switching to gasoline, offering flexibility for drivers.
Nissan Leaf
"...l, in Tesla and Nissan, right? I mean, the Nissan Leaf has been around for a long time. They're in their..."
The Nissan Leaf is a car that runs on electricity instead of gasoline, which means it doesn't produce exhaust fumes. It's important because it's one of the first electric cars that many people could afford, helping to make electric cars more common. People talk about it because it's a good option for those looking to save on fuel costs and reduce their environmental impact.
The Nissan Leaf is an all-electric hatchback that has been one of the best-selling electric vehicles globally since its introduction in 2010. It is significant for its role in popularizing electric cars and making them more accessible to everyday consumers. The Leaf is often discussed for its affordability, practicality, and advancements in battery technology over the years.
EV
"...in a perfect world, an EV should be less costly to maintain. But it has to get to a certain status quo in terms of newness and get there."
An EV, or electric vehicle, is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas. They are usually better for the environment and can cost less to take care of over time.
EV stands for electric vehicle, which is a type of car that is powered entirely by electricity rather than gasoline or diesel. EVs are known for being more environmentally friendly and often have lower maintenance costs.
Lexus
"...they are being built by reliable automakers, like Toyota and Lexus and Honda."
Lexus is Toyota's luxury brand, making high-end cars that are known for their comfort and reliability, including hybrid options.
Lexus is the luxury vehicle division of Toyota, known for producing high-quality, reliable cars, including hybrid models that share technology with Toyota's mainstream offerings.
Honda
"...they are being built by reliable automakers, like Toyota and Lexus and Honda."
Honda is another well-known car company that makes reliable vehicles, including hybrids that help save fuel.
Honda is a major automotive manufacturer recognized for its reliable vehicles and innovation in fuel-efficient technologies, including hybrid models.
Toyota Prius
"...s and Honda. I mean, Toyota has been building the Prius for a quarter of a century. So they have this tec..."
The Toyota Prius is a special type of car that uses both gas and electricity to help save on fuel. It's known for being very good on gas, which means you can drive further without filling up as often. People often mention it because it's one of the first cars that made being environmentally friendly popular.
The Toyota Prius is a hybrid vehicle that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Launched in 1997, it has become synonymous with eco-friendly driving and is often credited with popularizing hybrid technology. The Prius is frequently discussed for its reliability and the advancements in hybrid technology over its long production run.
Ford Maverick
"My rich line and my Ford Maverick. That's what it really came down to. Good choices."
The Ford Maverick is a small truck that is budget-friendly and comes with a hybrid version. It's great for people who need a truck for work or everyday activities.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck that was reintroduced in 2021, known for its affordability and hybrid option. It appeals to those looking for a versatile vehicle for both work and personal use.
Subaru
"...you want it on the side that you expected to be on and all of that. But I think and I do think probably so much more rare..."
Subaru is a car company from Japan that makes vehicles, often known for their ability to handle tough weather and terrain. Many people who own Subarus really like them and stick with the brand.
Subaru is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for its all-wheel-drive vehicles and boxer engines. The brand has a loyal following, especially among enthusiasts who appreciate its performance and ruggedness.
Ford Mustang
"And then they were there. It was under the Mustang logo in the back, in the rear of the car. Which i..."
The Ford Mustang is a powerful sports car that has been around for many years and is famous for its speed and cool design. It's popular among car lovers because it looks great and drives fast. People talk about it because it has a rich history and is a symbol of American car culture.
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car that has been in production since 1964, known for its performance, style, and cultural significance. It represents a blend of power and design, appealing to car enthusiasts and casual drivers alike. The Mustang is often discussed for its various iterations, including performance models and its impact on automotive history.
Toyota Rav4
"... on how to save money and maintain my 2020 Toyota RAV4 hybrid by myself. With rising costs and inflation..."
The Toyota RAV4 is a type of car called an SUV, which is bigger than a regular car and can hold more people and stuff. It's popular because it's reliable and good for families or anyone who needs extra space. People often mention it because it offers a good mix of comfort, space, and fuel efficiency.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV that has gained popularity for its versatility, reliability, and fuel efficiency. Since its launch in 1994, it has become one of the best-selling SUVs in its class, appealing to families and individuals alike. Discussions around the RAV4 often focus on its practicality and the recent hybrid and electric versions that enhance its eco-friendliness.
high voltage
"...you want to make sure that you're safe because there is high voltage. So let me show you what that looks like."
High voltage means the electricity in the car is much stronger than what you find in your home. It can be dangerous if you're not careful when working on the car.
High voltage refers to electrical systems that operate at a voltage level significantly above the standard household voltage, which can pose safety risks if not handled properly. In hybrid vehicles, high voltage is used to power the electric motor and other components.
oil dipstick
"...so we've got our engine. Our oil dipstick is right here. Our oil fill is back here."
An oil dipstick is a long, thin stick that you pull out of the engine to check how much oil is inside. It's important to make sure there's enough oil to keep the engine running smoothly.
An oil dipstick is a tool used to measure the level of engine oil in a vehicle. It helps ensure that the engine has the proper amount of oil for lubrication and operation.
oil fill
"...Our oil dipstick is right here. Our oil fill is back here. But on this side, above our transmission,"
The oil fill is where you pour new oil into the engine. Keeping the oil at the right level helps the engine work properly.
The oil fill is the opening where new engine oil is added to the engine. Ensuring the correct oil level is vital for engine performance and longevity.
transmission
"...Our oil fill is back here. But on this side, above our transmission,"
The transmission is a part of the car that helps it move by changing gears. It connects the engine to the wheels so the car can speed up or slow down.
The transmission is a crucial component of a vehicle that transmits power from the engine to the wheels. It allows the vehicle to change gears and control speed effectively.
Rivian R1T
"...t all wheel drive on EVs in the snow. As a Rivian R1T owner, I am partially biased, but wanted to highl..."
The Rivian R1T is a new electric truck that runs on batteries instead of gas, making it better for the environment. It's designed for both everyday driving and off-road adventures, which makes it exciting for people who like outdoor activities. People talk about it because it's one of the first electric trucks that combines power with eco-friendliness.
The Rivian R1T is an all-electric pickup truck that has garnered attention for its innovative features and off-road capabilities. Launched in 2021, it represents a significant step in the electric vehicle market, particularly for those seeking a rugged yet sustainable option. The R1T is often discussed for its unique design, technology, and the growing interest in electric trucks.
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