Mercedes-Benz has been named the most reliable car brand by UK drivers in a comprehensive survey of over 100,000 vehicle owners. The Auto Express Driver Power poll, which gathers owner feedback on vehicle dependability over the past 12 months, awarded Mercedes-Benz an average reliability score of 92.42 percent. The German manufacturer also achieved the highest overall satisfaction rating among all assessed brands.
Steve Walker, head of digital content at Auto Express, highlighted the value of real-world owner data. "The Driver Power owner satisfaction survey gives us a unique and exclusive insight into the reliability of new cars in the real world because the data comes directly from people who own and use the cars," Walker stated. He added that Mercedes-Benz's top ranking suggests the brand continues to deliver on durability even with its newer, technology-rich models.
Following Mercedes-Benz, Volvo secured the second spot for reliability with a score of 91.43 percent, despite some recent issues with its EX30 SUV concerning battery charging. Mazda completed the top three, achieving a reliability score of 91.26 percent. Both Volvo and Mazda are noted for their strong mechanical dependability, with Mazda being recognized for its distinctive technological approach.
Other brands appearing in the top ten most reliable include Honda, Toyota, Suzuki, Tesla, Skoda, Vauxhall, and Peugeot. These manufacturers received high marks from owners for the dependability of their vehicles.
Least Reliable Brands
At the other end of the spectrum, Jeep was identified as the least reliable car brand, with an owner-reported reliability score of 81.68 percent. Despite this low ranking in dependability, Jeep still managed to secure an eighth-place finish in overall owner satisfaction, suggesting owners appreciate other aspects of the brand's offerings.
Two popular Chinese brands, MG and BYD, also featured among the ten least reliable manufacturers. MG recorded a reliability score of 83.94 percent, though it ranked second overall for owner satisfaction. BYD achieved a reliability rating of 85.14 percent. Both brands have seen significant sales in the UK in 2026.
Other brands that received lower reliability ratings include Cupra, Dacia, Land Rover, Citroen, SEAT, Fiat, and Ford. The survey aimed to provide motorists with insights to help avoid potential expenses and inconvenience associated with less dependable vehicles.