Car Reliability – No-one wants to be stuck on the side of the road in their brand new car. Which is why many car buyers are stuck debating which car brand is the most reliable. What most car buyers are missing is that reliability comes down to maintenance over brand reputation.
While brand can be important, finding the “most reliable car brand” is only part of the equation. Even the most reliable cars can fail if they are not properly cared for. In this guide, we’ll cover why maintenance beats brand reputation, and steps you can take to keep your car reliable.
Car Reputation vs. Reality
Every vehicle, regardless of brand, has its own wear items and servicing needs. The nameplate alone doesn’t guarantee a trouble-free ownership experience.
Car reliability actually depends on:
- Driver habits and behaviour
- Overall load – towing a trailer puts more load on the powertrain, resulting in more wear.
- Maintenance – A car that is regularly maintained with the right tools will always outlast one that is not, regardless of brand.
The Small Things Make the Biggest Difference for Car Reliability
Car maintenance doesn’t have to be expensive. The key is spotting small concerns before they turn into major repairs.
Minor issues often escalate due to neglect. For example:
- Low coolant —> overheating —> head gasket failure
- Blocked air filter —> sluggish performance and poor fuel economy
- Weak battery —> warning lights and electrical gremlins.
Most failures start small, so it is important to recognise and repair issues. Regular services at a reliable mechanic will help to spot faults early on.
Service Schedules Protect More Than Just the Warranty
A full service history means a lot more than just the stamps. Regular services, particularly oil and filter changes, are the easiest way to improve the longevity of your car.
Regular maintenance can be tricky when you are on a budget, but it’s guaranteed to save you money in the long run.
There are a few things you can do to protect your vehicle:
- Follow the service schedule set out in your maintenance logbook
- Use high-quality fluids and filters
- Ensure that all recalls and TSBs are completed (many owners miss these).
Between the services, it is also important to check over your vehicle monthly.
How to Stay Ahead of Issues (Simple Ownership Habits)
A simple 5-minute check over of your car is an easy way to increase the lifespan of your vehicle. Here are some basic things you can do at home:
- Check fluid levels and conditions (oil, coolant, washer fluid, etc.)
- Inspect and replace the engine air filter
- Inspect tyre wear and set the tyre pressures
- Listen for abnormal noises
- Visually check for any leaks or damaged components.
Many car owners also use OBDII code readers to understand warning lights on the spot – it can prevent unnecessary workshop visits.
Car Reliability isn’t Built: It’s Maintained
Reliability isn’t something that a vehicle is born with, it’s something the owner maintains. With regular checks and timely servicing, most cars (no matter the badge) will stay reliable.
- A car is only as reliable as you make it
- Take the time to conduct regular check overs – it only takes 5 minutes and can save you money
- Stick to the manufacturer’s service schedule, it protects more than just the warranty.
Remember: Small bits of attention now can prevent costly breakdowns later.