You could argue that tires are the most crucial safety and performance feature of a car, but in truth, all essential components play an equally vital role.
If any one of them fails, the vehicle becomes inoperable and ends up costing you money. That said, the engine is the heart of your vehicle, and the performance of any machine that moves relies greatly on its heart.
While speed and power are certainly impressive, more and more Americans are keeping their cars longer and want engines that won’t fail them or require costly, inconvenient repairs.
Certain brands have built reputations not just for the overall reliability of their vehicles but specifically for the durability and performance of their engines.
Car Engine Brands You Can Trust Blindly
Here are five car brands that have the most reliable engines. You should also consider these five affordable car brands that rarely need repairs.
Ford
It’s almost instinctive to claim that the most dependable cars today originate from Japan and, to a lesser extent, South Korea.
While that may be accurate, American manufacturers are more than capable of producing advanced, efficient, and high-performing engines that stand the test of time.
Ford has a deep-rooted history in engine innovation. In fact, Henry Ford’s very first invention was the engine, which he later used to power his original automobile.
Over the years, Ford engines have become closely associated with performance, dependability, and long-term durability, often allowing vehicles to surpass owners’ expected mileage limits.
Ford’s rugged 5.0 Coyote V8 and 3.5 V6 EcoBoost engines continue to make way for a new generation of engine technology spanning internal combustion, hybrid, and electric vehicle production.
Ford is one of the most iconic and influential automotive brands in the world. Founded by Henry Ford in 1903, the company revolutionized the auto industry by introducing mass production techniques, most notably the moving assembly line. This made cars affordable for the average American and helped Ford become a global powerhouse.
Ford is best known for vehicles that combine practicality, performance, and durability. The brand’s reputation was built on models like the Model T, which changed the way people lived and worked, and more recently the F-Series trucks, particularly the F-150, which has been the best-selling vehicle in the U.S. for decades.
Over the years, Ford has also produced performance legends like the Mustang, a symbol of American muscle car culture, and the GT, a high-performance supercar inspired by Ford’s historic victories at Le Mans.
Ford operates under a “Built Ford Tough” ethos, especially for its trucks and SUVs, which highlights ruggedness and capability. In recent years, Ford has heavily invested in electrification, introducing vehicles like the Mustang Mach-E (an all-electric crossover) and the F-150 Lightning (an all-electric version of its flagship truck), signaling a bold push into the EV market.
The brand also has a strong global presence, with vehicles sold and manufactured around the world. While its passenger car lineup in North America has been trimmed in favor of SUVs and trucks, Ford still offers compact and economical cars in markets like Europe, Asia, and South America.
In short, Ford is a brand that blends heritage with innovation, consistently adapting to new challenges while maintaining its identity as a builder of reliable, hard-working vehicles.
Chevrolet
General Motors has owned numerous car brands over the years including current names like Buick, Cadillac, and Lotus, as well as past marques such as Oldsmobile, Pontiac, and Saturn and in doing so, has produced a vast array of engines.
Among all of GM’s divisions, however, Chevrolet stands out for its engines that are not only powerful but also remarkably reliable, often remaining strong even after multiple trips around the odometer.
Although Chevy’s diesel engines are known for their durability, its V8 engines have become legendary. The LS engine, introduced in 1997, has gone through three generations and has consistently proven to be low-maintenance and dependable throughout its life.
The 5.7-liter LT1 engine gave Corvettes and Camaros impressive horsepower during the 1990s, and today’s Gen V engines are steadily boosting Chevrolet’s position in J.D. Power’s dependability rankings year after year.
Although it takes its name from a Swiss racing driver from the early 1900s, Chevrolet has long leaned into its all-American identity to drive showroom success. As a full-line automaker with a wide-ranging product lineup, many of its models are shared across other General Motors brands.
Often, the Chevrolet versions of these vehicles—also sold under GMC, Buick, or Cadillac—are the most affordable and aimed at mainstream buyers.
Still, Chevrolet stands out by offering the most complete lineup among GM’s brands, with dealerships that stock everything from the compact Spark and a variety of SUVs to the acclaimed Corvette sports car and the Silverado full-size pickup. While most Chevys provide a comfortable ride, the interior quality generally lags behind that of key competitors.
Lexus
According to J.D. Power’s 2023 Vehicle Dependability Study, Lexus ranked at the top of the list, with its RX model named the most dependable vehicle on the market (tied with Toyota’s C-HR).
For 2024, the luxury brand once again led both its segment and the overall industry for the second consecutive year.
Dependability has quickly become the defining trait of Lexus, something that most other luxury automakers can’t claim. Based on data from RepairPal, Lexus owners typically spend around $551 annually on maintenance and repairs.
With engines like the 1UR-FE, 2JZ, and 2GR variants under the hood, Lexus (along with some Toyota models) delivers some of the most reliable vehicles available today.
Lexus is the luxury vehicle division of the Japanese automaker Toyota. Founded in 1989, Lexus has become one of the most well-known and respected luxury car brands in the world.
The brand was created to compete with European luxury manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi, and it has since carved out its own identity with a focus on reliability, exceptional customer service, and a blend of performance and comfort.
Lexus vehicles are known for their smooth ride quality, high-end interiors, and advanced technology. The brand offers a broad range of models, from compact sedans and SUVs to more performance-oriented options like the Lexus LC coupe and the high-performance F models.
Lexus also pioneered the luxury hybrid market with the introduction of the RX 400h in 2005, and it continues to offer hybrid variants across its lineup.
The brand’s commitment to luxury extends beyond the vehicles themselves, with Lexus also being known for its attention to customer experience. Its “Lexus Experience” customer service philosophy is designed to provide an elevated level of care, from the buying process through to ownership.
Lexus models are typically well-regarded for their reliability and resale value, which are key selling points for the brand. However, in recent years, Lexus has worked hard to develop a sportier and more dynamic image, especially with models like the Lexus IS sedan and the performance-focused RC F coupe.
Overall, Lexus combines luxury, performance, and dependability, making it a popular choice for those seeking a premium vehicle without the potential maintenance concerns that can come with some European brands.
Honda
For many years, Honda has earned a strong reputation for producing engines that can accumulate high mileage with nothing more than routine maintenance and proper care.
On average, a Honda vehicle has a typical lifespan of around 200,000 miles. However, numerous Honda models have been known to exceed even the most optimistic expectations of their owners.
Whether a Honda is equipped with a K-Series engine (found in the Honda Civic SI, Element, and CR-V), a J35 (used in the Honda Pilot, Acura MDX, Honda Accord, and Honda Odyssey), or an H22A (featured in early 2000s Preludes and Accord SiR Sedans and Wagons), you can count on exceptional reliability and long-lasting performance.
Honda is primarily recognized for its reputation for reliability and practicality, but there’s far more to the brand than that. From its roots in racing to its forward-thinking electric vehicles, the legacy Soichiro Honda founded nearly 75 years ago remains strong and thriving today. For those who have a passion for the brand, let’s take a deeper look at the history of Honda Motor Company.
Honda Motor Company, Limited is a multinational corporation based in Japan, known for producing a wide variety of technological products alongside its impressive lineup of vehicles.
From motorcycles and watercraft to mountain bikes and solar cells, the Honda logo can be seen across a diverse range of products. Founded in 1948 by Soichiro Honda, the company’s headquarters is located in Minato, Tokyo, Japan.
The success of the Honda brand is a testament to its founder’s relentless drive for innovation. Today, the brand continues to manufacture several popular models, including the CR-V, Pilot, and Odyssey. Honda’s strong reputation for crafting durable, fuel-efficient, and stylish vehicles has garnered the trust of consumers around the world.
Soichiro Honda’s journey into automotive engineering started in 1906, when he was born in Komyou Village, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. By the age of 17, Honda had already developed a deep interest in automobiles. His fascination with mechanical systems led him to an apprenticeship at the Art Shokai auto repair shop in Tokyo.
It was here that he learned about automotive repair and began to wonder about the car manufacturing process. His talents were soon recognized, and Honda became a mechanic on the “Curtiss” project, a vehicle that won its first race in 1924, with Honda playing a crucial role as the team’s engineering leader.
In 1937, Honda went on to produce piston rings for Toyota before transitioning to his own entrepreneurial ventures after World War II, using surplus military engines.
Post-war, Soichiro Honda shifted his focus to motorcycles, recognizing the need for efficient, affordable transportation in Japan. With an abundance of surplus military engine parts, he began transforming bicycles into motorized vehicles. As the demand grew, Honda started producing his own A-type engine.
Eventually, he shifted from making power sources to building entire motorcycles, releasing the “Dream” D-type motorcycle in 1949. Within ten years, he had established the American Honda Motor Co. in Los Angeles, California, and by 1964, Honda had surpassed all others to become the world’s largest motorcycle producer.
Honda made its debut in the automobile industry in 1963 with the release of the T360 mini-truck. Designed to take advantage of Japan’s tax breaks for small, less powerful vehicles, this truck featured a mid-mounted engine and was available in a single color: blue.
The T360 was followed by the release of the S500 sports car, a roadster with a 44-horsepower engine and a novel four-wheel independent suspension. As the company expanded, Honda introduced the Honda N600 sedan to the American market in 1970.
Amidst rising concerns about pollution, Honda responded with the groundbreaking 1975 Civic. Its innovative CVCC engine allowed it to meet U.S. Clean Air Act emission standards without the need for a catalytic converter, setting a new environmental standard for the automotive industry.
Three years later, the sedan version was launched in the U.S., and in 1986, Honda introduced Acura, marking the first-ever luxury brand by a Japanese automaker. In 1999, Honda made waves again with the introduction of the first hybrid vehicle in North America, the Honda Insight.
As the century turned, Honda continued to achieve significant milestones. In 2001, the company celebrated the production of its 10-millionth vehicle, securing its position as the second-largest Japanese automaker.
In 2009, Honda made headlines again with the debut of the FCX Clarity fuel cell vehicle, a sedan that was the first of its kind to offer seating for four passengers. In 2014, Honda reached another impressive achievement when it produced its 20 millionth vehicle in America.
Through its eco-conscious practices, including harnessing wind energy at its Ohio facility, Honda became the first major automaker in the U.S. to use wind power to meet its electricity needs.
The company also rekindled its Formula 1 racing roots by partnering with McLaren in 2015, while also becoming the eighth-largest car manufacturer in the world that same year. With the debut of the 2022 Civic sedan, which marks the model’s 11th generation, Honda remains an industry leader.
When Soichiro Honda founded his company, he chose to name it after himself, much like Henry Ford did with Ford Motors. The Japanese surname “Honda” translates to “original rice paddy,” which, though unrelated to automobiles, has become synonymous with the brand over the decades.
The simplicity and recognition of the name have worked in Honda’s favor for more than 70 years, and it also inspired the design of its emblem.
Over the years, Honda has made several revisions to its logo. The original badge, introduced in 1961, featured a red rectangle with a stylized capital “H” and the company name beneath it. In 1969, the logo was redesigned to feature a taller, narrower “H” inside a vertical black rectangle.
This version lasted until 1981, when a new square design with a white background and black “H” was unveiled. In 2000, the logo was updated once again, with an elongated “H” and a more elegant, thinner design, complemented by metallic gray and red color accents.
Honda has proven itself as a brand committed to both innovation and quality. With over seven decades of experience and success, Honda continues to push boundaries, whether in the areas of fuel efficiency, hybrid technology, or performance vehicles.
Today, Honda’s rich legacy of building reliable, efficient, and cutting-edge vehicles continues to make it a global leader in the automotive industry. So, what do you love most about Honda? Share your thoughts, and let’s celebrate this iconic company’s achievements together.
Toyota
You don’t become the world’s best-selling and most reliable automotive brand without producing outstanding engines that deliver consistent performance.
Over the years, Toyota has developed durable engines that have routinely provided owners with hundreds of thousands of miles of dependable and enjoyable driving.
CarBuzz highlights several of Toyota’s most enduring engines, including the 3.5-liter V6 2GR engine, which has powered many of the brand’s best-selling models such as the Tacoma, Camry, Highlander, and Avalon, as well as Lexus vehicles like the ES, GS, IS, and RX.
Special recognition goes to the high-performing 1JZ and 2JZ engines, along with the UZ engine family, all of which have been used in a wide variety of Toyota’s luxury sedans, minibuses, pickup trucks (like the Tundra), and rugged off-road SUVs (such as the Land Cruiser, Sequoia, and Lexus LX/GX).
Car Engine Brands That Are Always Suspect
All car brands, whether they embrace it or not, carry certain stereotypes associated with their names.
Generally speaking, Japanese automakers like Toyota are often seen as the go-to brands for producing the most reliable engines after all, the Lexus LS 400 is arguably the most dependable car ever made.
But for every strength, there’s also a weakness. That brings us to today’s focus: the car brands responsible for creating some of the worst engines in automotive history.
Rather than highlighting the worst individual engines ever built, we’re pointing out the manufacturers behind them.
It becomes even more surprising when you discover that a Japanese automaker known for producing JDM sports cars that can run for a lifetime is also featured on this list.
Just because a brand has engineered some excellent engines and built famously dependable vehicles doesn’t mean we should ignore their notable failures.
With that in mind, let’s dive right in. Here are the car brands that produced the most unreliable engines.
BMW
Unlike Mercedes-Benz, BMW has aged more gracefully over time. By the end of 2022, Consumer Reports ranked BMW as the third most reliable car brand of the year.
However, this wasn’t always the case. While Mercedes was busy experimenting with futuristic technology, BMW focused on enhancing engine performance and they succeeded, though not without consequences.
Enter the BMW E60 M5 and E63 M6, both equipped with a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V10 producing 500 horsepower.
These cars packed serious power, but the S85 V10 engine under the hood proved highly unstable. Known for fragile rod bearings, problematic throttle actuators, and frequent oil leaks, the S85 V10 often teetered on the edge of mechanical disaster.
Other BMW engines from that era also experienced issues such as VANOS malfunctions and transmission failures. Still, the E60 M5 remains the standout example an undeniably cool European sleeper, albeit plagued by unreliability.
Contrary to some beliefs, BMW does not stand for Best Motors in the World. While BMW vehicles are often considered some of the finest examples of engineering, the letters actually represent something more humble and grounded: Bayerische Motoren Werke, or Bavarian Motor Works.
The key to BMW’s success isn’t linked to mystical predictions or underhanded corporate tactics, but rather to a deep commitment to quality and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence. Unlike many other automotive manufacturers, BMW did not start with the vehicle as a whole but instead focused on perfecting its primary source of power—the engine.
Over nearly a century, generations of engineers meticulously honed the performance of BMW engines. This “cardio-approach” led to the creation of highly efficient, performance-driven engines that catapulted the company, founded by Karl Friedrich Rapp in October 1913, into prominence.
Rapp’s company, originally known as ‘Rapp-Motorenwerke’ (which would later become BMW), primarily concentrated on manufacturing aircraft engines to meet the high demand sparked by the looming World War I.
Despite the need for these engines, Rapp struggled to sell his engines due to a design flaw involving excessive engine vibrations. Meanwhile, his neighbor Gustav Otto, who ran his own aircraft engine plant, found success with his engine designs.
As Rapp’s company faced increasing financial troubles, he was forced to resign in 1916. Much like other automotive brands such as Bentley and Aston Martin, a group of investors came to the rescue.
The Austrian triumvirate of Franz-Josef Popp and financier Camillo Castiglioni revitalized the company, merging it with Gustav Otto’s operations. This merger created the company known as ‘Bayerische Flugzeug-Werke’ (BFW), which would later be renamed BMW.
In the years following the merger, BMW began making a name for itself, particularly with its highly regarded airplane engines. By the end of the 1910s, BMW had developed a series of highly praised engines, especially after the Type IIIA engine of 1918 successfully powered a biplane to an impressive altitude of 16,404 feet in just 29 minutes.
The early 1920s saw BMW introducing its now-iconic logo, which still exists today: a white propeller against a blue background. At the height of its success, however, BMW’s fortunes changed abruptly after World War I. The Treaty of Versailles restricted BMW’s ability to produce aircraft engines, forcing the company to pivot to manufacturing air brakes for railway cars.
Despite these setbacks, BMW adapted by focusing on motorcycle engines, and between 1920 and 1922, it produced two successful motorcycle models: the Victoria and the Flink. The success of these models led to the establishment of BMW’s first factory, which helped propel the brand to new heights.
While BMW faced some sales issues with its motorcycles, especially related to faulty suspensions, the company remained a leader in aeronautical engineering.
By 1927, BMW held over a third of the aviation world records, claiming 29 out of 87 total records at the time. In 1928, BMW made its first venture into four-wheeled vehicles with the production of the Austin license-built Dixi 3/15.
Mazda
Didn’t we just say Japanese automakers build engines like tanks? For the most part, that’s true but every now and then, something slips through the cracks.
Case in point: the Mazda RX-8. While the original rotary-powered RX-7 already had its quirks related to the Wankel engine, the RX-8 took those problems to another level.
Its small, triangular engine demanded obsessive care and financial investment to avoid disaster. Common issues include leaking apex seals, flooded engines, and failing catalytic converters.
The good news? These problems are technically avoidable. The catch? You’ll need to warm the engine for a precise number of seconds, rev it close to but not into the redline, and cool it down without letting it get too cold. See the challenge?
Mazda has a unique ability to create vehicles that not only deliver an exceptional driving experience but also possess an appealing design, all while maintaining a reasonable price. The Japanese automaker offers a stunning lineup that ranges from the playful MX-5 Miata sports car to the spacious, family-friendly CX-9 three-row crossover.
Despite the industry moving away from sedans, Mazda continues to produce impressive models like the compact Mazda 3, which stands out for its lively driving dynamics. The brand also takes on best-selling compact crossovers from Honda and Toyota by offering the athletic and premium CX-5.
Maserati
Maseratis are undeniably some of the best-sounding vehicles ever made. Thanks to Ferrari-derived V8 engines, high redlines, and thrilling exhaust notes, they’re music to a gearhead’s ears.
But here’s the twist Maserati’s incredible-sounding V8 might actually be one of the worst V8s ever produced. They’re notoriously expensive to repair and often bring more frustration than satisfaction over time.
With a price tag that plummets on the used market and styling that turns heads, a pre-owned Maserati can seem like a dream come true. But if you’re looking for more than just appearances, we’d advise steering clear. There are plenty of reliable sports cars out there that are far more worthy of your investment.
Maserati has earned its reputation as the maker of high-end, luxurious, and stylish vehicles, and for good reason. The renowned Italian automaker, with a rich history linked to Ferrari, is now under the ownership of Stellantis. Maserati’s distinct blend of bold designs and thrilling performance continues to shine through in its limited lineup.
This includes the mid-sized models like the sleek Ghibli sedan and the fashionable Levante crossover, both of which serve as entry-level options adorned with the brand’s signature trident badge. For those with more extravagant tastes, the luxurious GranTurismo sports car and the plush Quattroporte sedan are tailored to the wealthiest clientele.
Volvo
In recent years, Volvo has undergone a serious image makeover. Once considered an “old man’s car,” the brand has become stylish and modern. But notice we didn’t call Volvos reliable because they aren’t.
According to Consumer Reports, Volvo ranked 14th out of 24 on the brand reliability list. While that may not sound too bad at first, the brand’s premium pricing and promises of long-term durability don’t quite align with the actual results.
Owners of newer Volvos, especially the XC60, have reported a variety of issues including infotainment system failures, malfunctioning safety features, sudden engine power loss, excessive oil consumption, and brake problems.
The Scandinavian automaker, once known for its safe but somewhat conservative sedans and station wagons, has reinvented itself with a new lineup of vehicles that feature striking exteriors and elegantly designed interiors.
Premium SUV enthusiasts will find a selection of three crossovers—the XC40, XC60, and XC90—that cater to nearly every need. However, Volvo also continues to offer sedans and station wagons for those who enjoy more sporty handling dynamics. No matter which model you choose, each one delivers the Volvo safety that buyers have come to expect.
Alfa Romeo
This one’s a bit different we’re breaking our own rules here. Why? Because it’s Alfa Romeo. Everyone knows Alfa Romeos are unreliable; they’ve had that reputation for generations.
Still, that’s a small complaint when you consider how gorgeous they are, how well they handle, and the passionate fanbase that surrounds the brand.
That said, we must objectively recommend steering clear better yet, sprinting away from used Alfas. And maybe new ones, too. These cars are costly to maintain, suffer from frequent small issues, and are infamously difficult to repair. But despite all that, we can’t help but be enamored by them.
Alfa Romeo is a prestigious Italian automotive brand that has built a reputation for creating vehicles that blend striking design with exceptional performance. With a rich history rooted in motorsport, Alfa Romeo cars have always been known for their distinctive aesthetics and high driving dynamics, making them a favorite among enthusiasts.
Founded in 1910 in Milan, Italy, Alfa Romeo initially focused on racing cars and quickly garnered attention for their technical prowess. Over the years, the brand has produced a variety of iconic cars that have left a lasting impression in the automotive world.
Many of their vehicles, particularly the older models, are recognized for their elegance, bold design, and innovative engineering. Alfa Romeo’s design language often reflects the brand’s Italian heritage, with cars that feature sharp, aggressive lines and unique styling cues.
Motorsport plays a significant role in Alfa Romeo’s history. The brand has enjoyed notable success in competitive racing, particularly in Formula 1, where it was a key player in the early years of the sport.
Alfa Romeo has won numerous racing championships, and its commitment to motorsports has heavily influenced the design and engineering of its road cars. This racing legacy is an essential part of the brand’s identity and continues to shape its approach to performance vehicles.
Alfa Romeo vehicles are designed with performance in mind, and this focus is evident in their current lineup. The Alfa Romeo Giulia sedan is one of the brand’s standout models. It offers excellent handling, sharp steering, and a high-performance engine, making it one of the top choices in the luxury sedan segment.
The Giulia’s design emphasizes sportiness and Italian flair, with its aggressive front grille and sleek silhouette. Its interior, while luxurious, also focuses on the driver experience, making it a truly engaging car to drive.
In addition to the Giulia, Alfa Romeo also offers the Stelvio SUV, which combines the brand’s performance DNA with the practicality of an SUV. The Stelvio delivers dynamic handling that is rare in its class, with an athletic drive and a stylish design that stands out from other luxury SUVs. Just like the Giulia, the Stelvio offers an emotional driving experience, which is a hallmark of Alfa Romeo’s design philosophy.
Despite its strong performance and stylish vehicles, Alfa Romeo has faced challenges in recent years. The brand has gone through periods of ownership changes, and its global presence has been somewhat limited.
Today, Alfa Romeo’s vehicles are equipped with the latest technology, ensuring that they meet the demands of modern drivers while retaining the brand’s focus on driving pleasure.
The company continues to offer cars that provide an emotional connection, where performance is just as important as aesthetics. The interiors of Alfa Romeo cars are designed to offer both comfort and luxury, with high-quality materials and attention to detail, ensuring that the driving experience is enjoyable both inside and out.
The brand’s current lineup, which includes the Giulia sedan and the Stelvio SUV, offers something for both driving enthusiasts and those seeking a more refined, luxury vehicle. Alfa Romeo cars are still very much about performance and style, but they also incorporate advanced technology to ensure that drivers can enjoy a safe and comfortable ride.
In conclusion, Alfa Romeo remains a unique and exciting brand for those who appreciate Italian design, high performance, and a rich automotive heritage. With a long history in motorsport, an emphasis on driving dynamics, and an iconic design language, Alfa Romeo continues to attract drivers who want more than just a car – they want an experience.
Whether it’s the sharp handling of the Giulia sedan or the thrilling drive of the Stelvio SUV, Alfa Romeo offers vehicles that are as fun to drive as they are beautiful to look at.
