Cadillac once again ranked well above average in the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Initial Quality Study, which takes into account perceived vehicle quality and amount of problems reported per manufacturer. The greater automotive industry trended toward more problems reported per vehicle, Cadillac vehicles haven’t been recognized as being particularly problematic.
The new J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Initial Quality Study collected surveys from more than 93,000 purchasers and lessees of new 2023 model year vehicles during the early ownership period. The survey included 223 questions regarding nine categories: powertrain; driving assistance; infotainment; exterior; interior; climate; seats; features controls and displays; and driving experience. The survey was fielded between February and May of the 2023 calendar year.
Survey responses were then used to calculate initial vehicle quality based on the average number of problems reported per 100 vehicles (PP100). A lower PP100 score represents fewer reported problems, and therefore suggests vehicles of higher quality.
Cadillac was ranked eighth out of 33 auto brands included in the study, having earned a score of 170 PP100. This places it below other luxury makes like Alfa Romeo (143) and Porsche (167), while outranking competitors like Genesis (176), Mercedes-Benz (201), Lincoln (212) and Audi (221). For reference, the industry average was 192 PP100. Comparatively, last year, Cadillac earned a PP100 score of 163.
Interestingly, the study found that door handles are becoming increasingly problematic, as automakers attempt to redesign one of the most used and critical elements of a vehicle, as owners citing more problems with electric vehicles specifically, which often use push-button door handles as opposed to their traditional counterparts. At the same time, owners are becoming more impressed with companion smartphone applications.
Overall, the study yielded its worst results in its 37-year history, indicating industrywide issues with vehicle quality.
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