Consumers are on a never-ending search for reliability. Across the board, whether automobiles, dishwashers, shoes, or nearly anything else, we want to own things they can depend on. Luxurious and cool stuff is great, but reliability is king. With car companies making so many different models over the years, it can be hard to figure out which company has the best reputation for reliability. These things ebb and flow as technology and taste changes. These are the top five most reliable brands for 2020. 

Consumer Reports just released their list of most reliable car brands for 2020. Every model they tested got a score from 0-100, and each marque’s cars got averaged together to find which maker had the most reliable vehicles. 

It is important to note that reliability is only one factor here. For some of the makers on this list, the cars may have fewer issues mechanically but may not perform as well or be as well-equipped as others. These are simply things to keep in mind when selecting any car. The balance between practicality, reliability, and enjoyment is key. These factors are what make car buying both difficult and fun; it’s like a puzzle. 

5: Honda

This should come as no surprise to many drivers. Honda has long been the poster child for reliability. The Honda Civic, Accord, and CRV are on the automotive-reliability Rushmore. These are models that many kids start their driving experience with because Honda makes reliable cars. At this point, Honda doesn’t make too many vehicles that are overly exciting outside of the Honda Civic Type R and, of course, motorcycles. Honda has made reliability and practicality its mission.

4: Buick

Unlike Honda, this one might be a bit more surprising to some. Buick has been a staple in the American car market since the early 1900s. Since then, a Buick has been the envy of every grandad near and far. Although they make luxury vehicles that are probably best compared to Cadillac, they don’t seem to occupy quite the same place in our minds. However, CR found that they made few cars for 2020 that had any issues, earning Buick a sport on the top five most reliable car makers list. Hats off, Buick.

3: Lexus

Here is another Japanese mark that shouldn’t surprise anyone too much for being on this list. With Toyota calling the shots at Lexus, it would be surprising if they weren’t found to be reliable. Gear Patrol makes a solid point about Lexus’ place on this list. They mention that reliability can’t be the only indicator of quality. While Lexus makes a reliable car, it doesn’t push many technological boundaries like other marques such as Mercedes, for instance. Lexus should be reliable because they are building cars with the same tech as was popular in the 2000s. Either way you want to look at it; they work well, which is what this list is all about. 

2: Toyota 

Yes, yes. Toyota will always be on a reliability list. Toyota continues to excite buyers and car aficionados by continually making cars and trucks that perform well and last a long time. The Toyota Hilux set the bar high for its unkillableness, and the brand has run with that ever since. From the 4Runner to the Supra, Toyota continues to make cars and trucks that people love. 

1: Mazda

Again, we can’t say we are overly surprised to find Mazda at the top of the list. Mazda follows the Japanese car stereotype for being well designed and made to last. If you look at the 2020 Mazda models like the CX-30, Mazda 3, CX-9, and Miata, you see a nearly blemishless record of wildly popular cars and crossovers that are safe, reliable, and consistent. Mazda makes a reliable car, and that’s a fact.