New vehicles suffered an alarming rise in problems, as indicated by the significant increase of 30 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) over the past two years, according to the recently released JD Power 2023 US Initial Quality Study (IQS).
The study noted that this problem surge surpasses the previous year’s increase by 12 PP100, following an 18 PP100 rise from 2021 to 2022. The industry average for 2023 stands at 192 PP100, with a lower score indicating higher vehicle quality.
Factors adversely affecting vehicle quality
The IQS indicated that the decline in vehicle quality could be attributed to various factors, including the following:
- widespread use and integration of technology
- the inclusion of problematic audio systems in new models
- ineffective horns
- cupholders that fail to fulfill their purpose
- the introduction of new models with 11 PP100 more problems than carryover models
These findings underscore automakers’ challenges in maintaining quality standards amidst rapid technological advancements and evolving consumer expectations.
“The automotive industry is facing a wide range of quality problems, a phenomenon not seen in the 37-year history of the IQS.
The industry is at a major crossroad and the path each manufacturer chooses is paramount for its future. From persistent problems carrying over from years past to an increase in new types of problems, today’s new vehicles are more complex—offering new and exciting technology—but not always satisfying owners.”
Frank Hanley, JD Power’s senior director of auto benchmarking
Methodology
In its 37th year, the US Initial Quality Study collected responses from 93,380 individuals who purchased or leased new 2023 model-year vehicles. The survey was conducted during the early ownership period to capture valuable insights.
Participants answered a comprehensive 223-question survey that covered nine vehicle categories:
- infotainment features
- controls and displays
- exterior
- driving assistance
- interior
- powertrain
- seats
- driving experience
- climate
The study’s primary objective is to provide automakers with valuable information to identify areas of concern and drive product improvement. The survey was conducted between February and May 2023, allowing for a robust assessment of initial vehicle quality.
Key findings
The 2023 study conducted by JD Power reveals a decline in quality across various categories, except for the driving experience. The features, controls, and displays category experienced the largest year-over-year increase in problems (+3.2 PP100), followed by infotainment (+2.3 PP100).
Key findings include the increasing problem of door handles, particularly in battery electric vehicles, as manufacturers redesign them. Driver assistance systems are also causing issues, with lane departure warning/lane keeping assistance and forward collision warning/automatic emergency braking being the most problematic areas.
On a positive note, owners are increasingly satisfied with manufacturer smartphone apps, especially BEV owners who primarily use them for monitoring charging and range. However, Android Automotive Operating System (AAOS) issues exist, and smartphone charging problems have worsened.
As for the brands, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, and Ram showed the most significant year-over-year improvements. Meanwhile, unofficially ranked automakers such as Tesla, Polestar, Lucid Motors, and Rivian Motors experienced various problems but were not officially ranked due to sample size and permission limitations.
Below are the top 10 brands in the 2023 JD Power Initial Quality Study:
- Dodge, with 140 average problems per 100 vehicles
- Ram, 141
- Alfa Romeo, 143
- Buick, 162
- Chevrolet, 166
- GMC, 167
- Porsche, 167
- Cadillac, 170
- Kia, 170
- Lexus, 171
See Also:
- CEO Elon Musk compliments Giga Shanghai-made EVs as “best-quality”
- Hyundai IONIQ 5 awarded 2023 Best Electric Vehicle by Cars.com
- Tesla starts utilizing automated quality control at its Fremont factory
- EV owners rate OEM mobile apps low in JD Power study
- Mini & Rivian scored high on JD Power EV Experience Index for driving entertainment & satisfaction
The latest findings from the JD Power 2023 IQS underscore the crucial importance of vehicle quality in today’s auto industry. As technology advances and consumer expectations evolve, automakers face the challenge of maintaining high standards across various categories.
The impact of quality extends beyond mere consumer satisfaction. It directly influences brand reputation, customer loyalty, and long-term business success. Automakers must prioritize quality throughout the design, manufacturing, and post-sales support processes to deliver reliable and enjoyable vehicles.
