Discover how Buick emerged as the most reliable mass-market American brand in the latest J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study.
Buick's reputation for reliability is no longer a surprise. According to J.D. Power’s 2025 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), Buick ranked as the highest American brand, astonishingly outperforming industry giants like Toyota and Mazda.
Buick's leap to the forefront of reliability, with a score of 143 problems per 100 vehicles, has set a new benchmark for American automobile manufacturers. This remarkable performance raises questions about the traditional reliability perceptions surrounding Toyota, which scored 162 problems per 100 vehicles. The once-revered Japanese automaker is now facing stiff competition from a brand that has undergone a transformation in quality and dependability.
J.D. Power's 2025 Vehicle Dependability Study
Earlier this month, J.D. Power released the 36th edition of its Vehicle Dependability Study, assessing car brands and models sold in North America. This extensive survey not only scrutinizes vehicle reliability but also highlights evolving trends in the automotive industry. Notably, the 2025 VDS pointed out significant advancements in the reliability of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) while flagging some concerning trends for plug-in hybrids and phone connectivity issues that stem from the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Buick’s Hailed Models
What solidified Buick's unprecedented position above its competitors were its standout models. The Buick Regal and Buick Lucerne, both boasting a reliability rating of 91/100, emerged as leaders in the lineup. This achievement establishes them as dependable long-term options for buyers seeking longevity and low maintenance expenses.
The Buick Envision and Buick Encore also shined, each receiving a strong reliability rating of 90/100, making them worthy contenders in their respective segments. These ratings suggest that whether you desire a luxury sedan or a practical crossover, there's a reliable Buick model for every consumer's needs.
What This Means for Toyota
With Buick now leading the pack of mass-market brands, concerns about Toyota’s decline in reliability rankings should not be overlooked. Traditionally regarded as a bastion of dependable vehicles, Toyota faces an identity crisis as it slipped down the list. Bucking the perception that foreign brands consistently overtake American manufacturers, Buick's performance is reminiscent of an encouraging renaissance for American-made vehicles.
Exploring Buick's Exemplary Models
For prospective buyers intrigued by the reliability rankings, it's worth highlighting which Buick models exemplify this trend:
1. Buick Lucerne (91/100 Reliability Rating)
- Although discontinued, the 2008-2011 models are still sought after as reliable used options. Their average annual maintenance costs fall around $585, according to RepairPal.
2. Buick Regal (91/100 Reliability Rating)
- Known for its excellent performance even as it morphed into a Vauxhall/Opel rebadged version, the Regal remains a dependable choice with an annual maintenance cost of $563.
3. Buick Envision (90/100 Reliability Rating)
- This crossover shares a platform with other GM models but stands out for its reliability and modest maintenance costs, positioning it among the favorites in its category.
4. Buick Encore (90/100 Reliability Rating)
- Though recently discontinued, the Encore models continue to showcase reliability, with newer versions outperforming previous iterations with an impressive score of 91/100.
5. Buick Encore GX (90/100 Reliability Rating)
- The larger sibling to the Encore, the Encore GX retains the brand's commitment to reliability, scoring well in consumer satisfaction.
6. Buick LaCrosse (90/100 Reliability Rating)
- Despite being phased out, earlier models of the LaCrosse have remained consistent in terms of reliability.
Competitive Landscape of American Brands
While Buick has clearly established itself as a leader, other American manufacturers performed reasonably well, with brands like Cadillac and GMC slightly trailing behind, each scoring 169 and 181 problems per 100 vehicles, respectively. The standout is Chrysler, significantly lagging with a disappointing 282 problems per 100 vehicles. Well-known for their power and presence on the road, these brands now have competitive pressure mounting on them to enhance reliability.
Lexus: The Overall Champion
The only brand eclipsing Buick overall in the J.D. Power study is Lexus, with a score of 140 problems per 100 vehicles. This luxury counterpart to Toyota continues to dominate the reliability rankings and customer satisfaction surveys, retaining its position as a leader for the third consecutive year. It's evident that while Buick makes significant strides, Lexus remains the benchmark in the automotive sector.
By recognizing that reliability comes from both mass-market and luxury brands, consumers can make informed decisions that meet their reliability expectations. As Buick continues to innovate and deliver reliable vehicles, it beckons consumers to reconsider their allegiance to brands previously viewed as untouchable in that domain.
Take advantage of this new-found information from the 2025 J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study to explore Buick and its captivating lineup, promising a purchase that stands the test of time.