MX Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS)
The Benchmark for Long-Term Vehicle Dependability
The MX Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) measures the problems experienced by original owners of 3-year-old vehicles. As one of the most trusted indicators of long-term quality, VDS helps manufacturers design more durable products that retain value and strengthen brand loyalty.
A Complete View of Long-Term Dependability
Evaluates owner-reported problems across nine vehicle systems:
• Problem symptoms and frequency (PP100)
• Component failures and replacements
Includes:
• Diagnostics by make and model
• Industry and segment benchmarking
How the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) Works
• Surveys original owners of 3-year-old vehicles
• Captures problem frequency, component failures, and long-term satisfaction
• Complements IQS by showing how early-life quality evolves over time
• Feeds Component Dependability Reports.
Stronger Reliability, Higher Confidence
• Pinpoints chronic issues that emerge during warranty years
• Identifies components that most impact satisfaction and resale value
• Provides trusted rankings used by consumers and media
• Supports supplier quality improvement and component redesign
• Creates annual rankings and awards-licensing opportunities for top-performing brands
Improve Durability, Protect Resale Value
• Leads to more reliable products with fewer long-term failures
• Strengthens brand perception for dependability
• Drives higher residual values and customer retention
• Improves supplier accountability and component performance
Key Dates
2026
Fielding: Nov 2025 – Aug 2026
Publish: Nov tbd, 2026
Press Release: Nov tbd, 2026
Press Release & Award Information
JD Power issues a national press release highlighting key findings and top-to-bottom rankings from the study. The brand(s) that rank highest in each award-eligible segment and meet predetermined award criteria will have the opportunity to enter into a licensing agreement through the JD Power Awards Program, which requires subscribing to the study as a prerequisite. Entering into a licensing agreement provides top-ranked brands with the valuable opportunity to market their award-winning performance. As the trusted symbol of excellence, JD Power Awards enhance brand perceptions, drive consumer preference, and differentiate awarded brands in competitive marketplaces.
Designed for Quality and Value Leaders
• OEM quality and engineering organizations
• Residual value and remarketing analysts
• Marketing teams (awards and messaging)
• Tier 1 suppliers monitoring component performance
Insights Available at a Touch of a Button
Subscribers to this study have full access to benchmark reporting, competitor analysis, and more with PowerSource.
