Stellantis Has a Dependability Problem According to a New Study
Stellantis owns several automotive brands selling vehicles in the United States, notably Jeep and Dodge. The company also oversees the development of Ram trucks and Alfa Romeo and Maserati luxury cars. Despite the wide vehicle selection across nameplates, most of these models fail to deliver in one crucial category. We’ve got all the details on Stellantis-owned brands’ dependability, according to a new J.D. Power study.
Dodge is the 1 Stellantis brand more dependable than average
According to J.D. Power, the Stellantis brand Dodge beat the industry average for dependability. The average brand has 186 problems per 100 vehicles, but Dodge cars usually only have 172 problems per 100. However, Dodge still failed to beat popular rivals such as Kia and Toyota.
The latter’s luxury brand, Lexus, proved to be the most dependable automaker, with only 133 problems per 100 cars. However, it’s worth noting Dodge was one of the only American automakers that beat the industry average. Chevrolet cars are still more dependable, but data suggests your Dodge might last longer than a Cadillac or GMC model.
Dodge only offers a handful of new models for 2023, two of which won’t return to production next year. The Charger is a large four-door sedan, while the Challenger is a five-seat, two-door coupe. Both offer several V6 and V8 engine options, including the automaker’s Hellcat Hemi.
You can also get the Hellcat Hemi under the Durango’s hood, where it makes 710 hp. The Durango is a midsize SUV with seating for up to seven riders, a huge cargo area, and an 8,700-pound towing capacity. However, its cabin looks noticeably plain compared to other SUVs in the segment. The upcoming Dodge Hornet has a nicer interior and an available plug-in hybrid powertrain.
How dependable are Jeep and Ram vehicles?
Ram trucks typically have 189 problems for every 100 vehicles, so it’s barely below the industry average. In fact, Consumer Reports data reveals the 2023 Ram 1500 has the highest predicted reliability rating in the segment. It also earned a high score on its road test thanks to its smooth-riding coil-spring suspension and quiet cab.
The Ram 1500 can also be purchased with a diesel engine, which is historically more reliable than a regular gas engine. It’s capable of 260 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s the most efficient engine available for this truck, earning up to 22/32 mpg city/highway.
The EcoDiesel allows the Ram 1500 to tow up to 12,560 pounds when properly equipped. The Ram 1500’s Hemi V8 can tow 200 pounds more, and it has mild-hybrid technology.
Jeep offers a variety of SUVs for 2023, including the rugged Wrangler. The Grand Wagoneer and its long-wheelbase variant also debuted recently. The Grand Wagoneer features an independent rear suspension for the cushiest ride possible, plus a premium interior and two great engine options.
However, Jeep owners report an average of 196 problems per 100 vehicles, according to J.D. Power.
The Stellantis brand Chrysler has a long way to go toward good dependability
Chrysler is among the least dependable brands, with owners reporting 226 problems per 100 vehicles. The automaker sells only three 2023 models, though the Pacifica and its plug-in hybrid twin are popular. These minivans garner high praise from critics for their spacious interiors and composed driving manners.
This model year is your last chance to buy a new Chrysler 300. However, we’d recommend other full-size sedans with more standard safety features and nicer cabins.
If Stellantis overhauled some interiors and updated the tech inside its cars, the automotive giant could reduce reported owner complaints and improve its dependability ratings.