
Volkswagen tops 2026 reliability concerns in J.D. Power study
J.D. Power’s 2026 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study ranks Volkswagen as the most unreliable brand for original owners of 3-year-old vehicles, while Lexus, Buick and Mini are listed as the most reliable. The study measures problems per 100 vehicles and emphasizes long-term quality as owners hold onto cars longer. The piece also notes differing reliability signals from other sources and suggests evaluating a brand’s portfolio and model history when shopping for dependable vehicles.













