Study shows 2022 vehicle quality decline linked to COVID-19 impacts
A. Krivonosov
J.D. Power reports 2022 model-year vehicles had more issues than any year since 2009, due to pandemic disruptions, parts shortages, and production flaws.
According to a J.D. Power study, the quality of 2022 model-year vehicles has dropped significantly. The research found that 2022 models had more issues than any year since 2009.
The decline stems largely from the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on the auto industry. Global factory restrictions, parts shortages, and production disruptions all played a role.
Even as demand rebounded after lockdowns eased, the rapid ramp-up in manufacturing couldn't maintain previous quality standards. Experts note that pushing production volumes led to more assembly flaws and technical errors, especially in mainstream, budget-friendly models.
Many of the problems centered on electronic components. Software for infotainment systems and smartphone integration features were frequent pain points for owners, though these issues rarely compromised vehicle safety.
Hybrid models, interestingly, proved notably more reliable than both electric and traditional gasoline-powered vehicles during this period.
