There is a very interesting article in the Toronto Star Wheels Section today that goes into detail about the definition of "defects" reported by owners in the JD Powers surveys. The average is 133 "defects" per 100 cars. Apparently, the most common complaint by new owners that falls into the "defect category" is wind noise (not always caused by a defect). In other more specific cases, an owner of a new Mini complained the cup holder would not hold a large cup (JD considers this a defect), an H2 owner complained of poor gas mileage (another "defect"). The article also goes into detail that customer expectations plays a major role in what is reported as a "Defect". Just a note, while Toyota and Honda are among the highest ranked overall (includes Lexus and Acura) they are ranked 8th and 10th as individual brands.

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Jason Priest
1999 E430
1995 E420 - retired
1986 420SEL - retired

Only consumers can dictate "quality" Dodge Chrysler has been well known to be the biggest POS on the market, yet at the same time they have a very loyal following.

Would a long time Oldsmobile, Toyota, or any other normal car owner have complaints about Ferrari or Lamborghini or Mercedes or other high end cars you bet! There would surly be complaints about Ferraris excessive rattles and engine noise, Lamborghinis low visibility and tight steering or the complexity of Mercedes climate control system.

My point is perceived "quality" by the end user is what’s important, not the world according to JD Powers.

By golly - I never thought to complain about the wind buffeting the back of my head at 75 mph, or the cowl shake when crossing railroad tracks, or the fact that I have to grease 17 different fittings every 1000 miles, or that the exhaust note is loud enough that I can use it to determine my speed..... Oh yeah, forgot to mention that it's my '55 Healey.

But then again, maybe the Powers folks were not in business back when it was new.

Wes

When you position the engine 2 feet behind your head with only a piece of glass between you it can be a little unnerving on a long drive, but somehow I manage to deal with it

There are not any rattles or squeaks but when you lay on the HP it sure makes things move other than the car!

my dad has been sent several of these surveys and he has only had his car for 6 months, most of them came within the first 2 months he had it. He has put on less than 3000 miles too.

Alon

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'92 300CE - Sold
2004 C240 - 744 - C7 Wheels - Android Radio
2002 C320 - 816 - Sport Wagon