Buying a car, second only to buying a home, is one of the biggest financial decisions most people make. While personal taste and style certainly influence the choice, reliability is often the deciding factor. Buyers want a car that lasts.
However, choosing from one vehicle brand is not always easy. Some models succeed while others fail, with factors such as engineering, design and logistics affecting long-term performance.
Determining which car brand is the most reliable overall is not an easy task. And so the editors said in iSeeCars It analyzed data from more than 402 million vehicles to find the most reliable automakers. The brands below all perform above average in terms of longevity – although the margins are close enough that it’s still worthwhile to research individual models.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at the brands that consistently excel in long-term durability.
10. Ram trucks
Photography: Ram
Most likely to reach 250,000 miles: 3.5%
Compared to average: 0.7x
What helps pay ram Rounding out the top ten was their long partnership with Cummins diesel engines – a collaboration that has defined their reputation for reliability. Of course, Cummins power isn’t the only reason drivers choose Ram, but it’s reassuring to know that, regardless of model, these trucks are built to go the distance.
9. Mazda
Photo by: Mazda
Most likely to reach 250,000 miles: 3.6%
Compared to average: 0.7x
The first Japanese brand to appear on the list, Mazda It may not produce cars in the same quantities as some of its competitors, but its commitment to quality is clear. The relatively small number of cars that leave their factories are almost always well-made and reliable enough that many have a strong chance of reaching a quarter-million miles over their lifetime.
8. Cadillac
Photo by: Cadillac
Most likely to reach 250,000 miles: 4.5%
Compared to average: 0.9x
Perhaps one of the most surprising entries on this list, Cadillac’s inclusion likely stems from the car’s enduring popularity. Escalade. As the brand’s flagship model – and best-seller – the Escalade plays a key role in boosting Cadillac’s reliability ratings. Built on the same truck platform as their Chevrolet and GMC counterparts, they benefit from the proven durability that has earned these brands top marks for longevity.
7. Chevrolet
Photo by: Chevrolet
Most likely to reach 250,000 miles: 4.5%
Compared to average: 0.9x
Chevrolet It matches Cadillac in reliability but ranks slightly higher due to its larger overall sales volume. This indicates that Chevy vehicles are manufactured to high standards, often without requiring as many recalls as competitors like Ford.
6. Tesla
Photo by: Tesla
Most likely to reach 250,000 miles: 4.6%
Compared to average: 1.0x
Say what you will about Tesla’s CEO, but the cars themselves are remarkably holding up. This is largely due to the simplicity of electric cars compared to traditional gas-powered cars, as well as the fact that each model shares a large amount of common hardware and software components.
5. GMC
Photo by: GMC
Most likely to reach 250,000 miles: 4.6%
Compared to average: 1.0x
GMC’s focus on trucks and SUVs has helped make it the most reliable automaker outside Japan. Most models are based on Chevrolet or Cadillac platforms, allowing parts to be shared widely. Without the need for basic designs, GMC It can focus on its identity as a semi-luxury brand, and enjoys a comfortable position among its siblings.
4. Acura
Photo by: Acura
Most likely to reach 250,000 miles: 7.2%
Compared to average: 1.5x
Although Acura A subsidiary of Honda, the brand is aimed primarily at the North American market, positioning itself as a competitor to Lexus. Like GMC, its models are rarely completely original, and are often based on mainstream Honda vehicles sold in mass quantities. However, for reliability, this approach works to its advantage, making the Acura a solid choice for long-term ownership.
3. Honda
Photo by: Honda
Most likely to reach 250,000 miles: 10.8%
Compared to average: 2.3x
You’ll hear the familiar praise here: Reliability is Honda’s hallmark, with a range of consistently dependable models that continue to this day. Its only drawback is that it does not sell as many vehicles as some of its competitors.
2. Lexus
Photo by: Lexus
Most likely to reach 250,000 miles: 12.8%
Compared to average: 2.7x
Acura’s most popular competitor not only outsells it, but… Lexus It is also widely viewed as a premium brand comparable to German luxury car makers. Lexus first established its reputation for reliability with the launch of the LS400 in 1989 and has maintained that reputation ever since. Its strong focus on engineering and technology is a major reason why its parent company is consistently ranked at the top.
1. Toyota
Photo by: Toyota
Most likely to reach 250,000 miles: 17.8%
Compared to average: 3.7x
Toyota’s straightforward approach to manufacturing and features is a big reason it earns the top spot on this list. Their cars may not be as exciting to drive as a Mazda or Honda, but they offer unparalleled reliability. Toyota’s dedication to providing practical, affordable transportation sets it apart — especially in today’s cost-conscious world, where reliability is more important than ever.
- Toyota
- Lexus
- Honda
- Acura
- GMC
- Tesla
- Chevrolet
- Cadillac
- Mazda
- Ram trucks