Scotty, what makes a reliable vehicle? Maybe I’m just a novice at best. Is it the brand, model, how it’s made, the materials, maintenance? Are those all the factors? My family has owned Mercedes Benz, and I’ve worked at a shop for them as well. Seeing cars like 2018 with 200k with no problems. I’ve also seen them falling apart at 30k. I’ve seen Fords, Toyotas, Nissans with similar years do the same. Maybe I’m missing the obvious?
Maybe I’m missing the obvious?
Possibly. The question applies to any kind of product. Something that lasts will be well engineered, made with quality materials, and built with care. Something that doesn't last will be poorly designed and poorly built as cheaply as possible. Seems pretty obvious to me, but to be fair I may be missing something.
IMHO, it comes down to culture. A culture of quality first or a culture of profit first, and everything in between.
Toyota and Honda historically have put quality first. That’s why their cars are usually more reliable, historically.
Other car makes out making money first, which shows in how long their cars are in the road.
all the other stuff you mentioned matter too. But culture is key.
Hello from Texas. I have 2 vehicles. One a 2012 Mazda3, hatchback. Runs great, roof paint looking rough, gets 36 mph. Second is a 2011 Ford Escape, 4 cylinder, stick shift! Not sure of it's mpg, but it is less than 36. Insurance for the Escape is less than the Mazda. The Ford is in very good shape. No coat issues. I like both, but probably don't need both, and need to decide which is the better to hold on to. One thing I know is the Ford, being stick, will be a harder sell. Vehicle is used to commute to job, 45 minute drive one way.
