2026 New Vehicle Quality Improves Overall, Infotainment Systems Lag Behind

J.D. Power’s 2026 Initial Quality Study reveals that the overall number of problems reported in new vehicles within the first 90 days of ownership has decreased compared to last year, with improvements seen across nine of the ten measured categories—except for infotainment systems. Mass-market vehicles reported 44.4 infotainment-related issues per 100 vehicles, of which 6.1 were related to connectivity features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. CarPlay and Android Auto were the primary sources of trouble, accounting for 3.8 problems per 100 vehicles, while Bluetooth contributed 0.5 problems per 100 vehicles. In-vehicle software updates lag behind those of consumer electronics. Each time smartphone operating systems are updated, automakers must revalidate compatibility with their vehicle systems—a complex process because in-car software is integrated with multiple vehicle subsystems. Additionally, mobile apps used to control functions like climate settings, door locks, and remote start frequently malfunction. As touchscreens have become the primary user interface, their failures now have a greater impact on the overall user experience. Consumer dissatisfaction with large touchscreen displays is rising, with many drivers citing them as a distraction. The reduction of physical buttons and the burying of commonly used functions deep within menu hierarchies force drivers to interact with screens while driving. Among users who feel their vehicle causes distraction, 46% attribute it specifically to the touchscreen. One key factor driving this year’s improvement in new-vehicle quality is enhancements to cup holders, including more convenient placement and better accommodation of various container sizes. Significant progress was also observed in driver-assistance systems, electric vehicle range, road noise suppression, and build quality.