Most Reliable Car Brands Unveiled - & The Least Reliable!
Most Reliable Car Brands Unveiled - & The Least Reliable!
When purchasing a vehicle, reliability is a key factor that influences long-term costs, safety, and overall satisfaction. A trustworthy car ensures fewer unexpected repairs and better resale value.
Based on an extensive analysis of thousands of warranty plans covering decades of car ownership, we reveal the most and least reliable car brands of 2025 so far.
Why Car Reliability Matters
Car reliability is crucial for every vehicle owner. A dependable car means fewer breakdowns, lower maintenance costs, and peace of mind on the road. Some key benefits of choosing a reliable car include:
- Lower repair costs – Reliable vehicles require fewer unexpected repairs, saving you money in the long run.
- Higher resale value – Cars with strong reliability ratings tend to hold their value better.
- Increased safety – Vehicles with fewer mechanical failures are less likely to experience critical issues while driving.
- Improved performance – A well-maintained, reliable car runs smoothly and efficiently over time.
Knowing the most reliable car brands can help you pick a vehicle that lasts longer, needs fewer repairs, and costs less to maintain.
Top 10 Most Reliable Car Brands
These brands have consistently delivered dependable vehicles with minimal maintenance concerns. If you're wondering what the most reliable car brand is, these manufacturers rank highest in car reliability rankings:
1. Dacia – The most reliable car brand, with an exceptional reliability score of 8.9/10. Known for its low cost and minimal maintenance needs.
2. Suzuki – A close second, known for producing most reliable cars with low maintenance (8.8/10). Their compact models are particularly durable.
3. Honda – Scoring 8.5/10. Honda consistently delivers long-lasting engines and efficient designs.
4. Infiniti – Combining luxury with durability, earning 8.4/10. Infiniti models offer premium features without sacrificing reliability.
5. Toyota – A leader in most reliable car manufacturers, delivering long-lasting vehicles (8.3/10). Toyota’s reputation for reliability spans decades.
6. Lexus – Toyota’s luxury arm, known for its strong reliability ratings (8.3/10). Lexus vehicles blend performance and durability.
7. SMART – A brand recognised for producing small, fuel-efficient cars. It ranks among the most reliable automatic car brands (8.3/10) and is ideal for city driving.
8. Fiat – Affordable and practical, with a solid 8.2/10 reliability score. Fiat’s smaller models offer excellent fuel efficiency and reliability.
9. Saab – Although discontinued, Saab models rank among the most reliable used cars UK (8.1/10). Owners frequently praise their durability and long-lasting performance.
10. Skoda – Gaining popularity for its balance of cost-effectiveness and reliability (7.5/10). Skoda offers a variety of practical and well-built cars.
What Makes These Brands Reliable?
- Proven engineering – Brands like Honda and Toyota have perfected their engines for long-term reliability.
- Affordable maintenance – Many of these manufacturers use widely available, cost-effective parts.
- Consistent performance – These vehicles maintain their efficiency and smooth handling over time.
Top 10 Least Reliable Car Brands
Premium brands often include advanced technology and luxury features, but they do not always rank among the most reliable car manufacturers. Based on repair frequency and cost, these are the least reliable car brands:
1. Bentley – Ranked lowest in reliability with an alarming score of 1/10. High-end materials but expensive and frequent repairs.
2. Land Rover – A history of expensive repairs and frequent mechanical issues (1/10). Popular for off-roading but has poor reliability scores.
3. Tesla – Despite its innovation, Tesla struggles in reliability (2/10). Problems are beginning to arise as the vehicles age, as with other EVs.
4. Porsche – High-performance but costly to maintain, earning just 2.3/10. Porsche repairs are extremely costly.
5. Subaru – Surprisingly low-rated because of expensive repairs and maintenance concerns (2.7/10). Despite a loyal following, reliability has suffered.
6. Chrysler – A brand that has struggled with mechanical durability, scoring 2.8/10. Older models in particular have known engine and transmission issues.
7. Audi – Known for luxury, but not always one of the most reliable car manufacturers (3.4/10). Frequent electrical problems impact long-term reliability.
8. SsangYong – Recurring mechanical issues place it at 3.6/10. This brand has yet to establish strong reliability in the UK market.
9. Maserati – A luxury badge doesn’t guarantee reliability, with a 3.8/10 score. High maintenance costs and repair frequency keep Maserati low on the list.
10. BMW – Despite strong performance, BMW faces ongoing maintenance issues (3.8/10). Frequent repairs and costly servicing affect ownership experience.
Why Do These Brands Rank Poorly?
- Frequent breakdowns – Some luxury and high-performance cars require regular repairs.
- High repair costs – Luxury vehicles often have expensive parts and specialized servicing needs.
- Complex technology – Advanced systems in premium cars can lead to more frequent malfunctions.
How to Choose a Reliable Car
If you're in the market for a new or used vehicle, keep the following factors in mind to find a reliable car:
- Check reliability ratings – Look at industry reports and customer reviews to assess long-term performance.
- Review repair costs – Some brands have higher maintenance costs, so research parts availability and servicing fees.
- Consider warranty coverage – A good warranty can help protect against unexpected breakdowns and repairs. Motoreasy offer a range of warranties to protect your investment.
- Look at resale value – Reliable cars tend to hold their value better, making them a smarter investment.
- Choose a trusted brand – Reliable brands like Toyota, Honda, and Lexus have a strong track record of reliability.
Final Thoughts: Best Car Brands for Reliability
For buyers who value reliability,, the best car brands for reliability include Dacia, Suzuki, Honda, Toyota, and Lexus. If you're looking for the most reliable used cars, these brands also perform well in the second-hand market.
A reliable car reduces maintenance costs, improves resale value, and ensures a smoother driving experience. Whether buying new or used, this guide highlights the most reliable car manufacturers in 2025 to help you make an informed choice and drive with confidence!
For a detailed breakdown of specific models and full car reliability rankings, visit MotorEasy's Car Reliability Index.
