Ford Leads Domestic Automakers In J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Index

Ford Motor Co. leads the domestic automakers in long-term durability, as reported by the 2002 J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Index measuring 1998 model year vehicles. Four of Ford’s brands (Jaguar, Lincoln, Mercury, and Mazda) finished above industry average in this year’s study. In addition, 10 Ford Motor Company nameplates -- five cars and five trucks -- ranked among the top three in their respective segments.

Top segment-finishing cars included Mercury Tracer, Mercury Grand Marquis, Ford Crown Victoria, Lincoln Continental, and Ford Mustang. Top trucks included Mazda B-Series, Ford F-150/F-250, Ford Expedition, Mercury Villager, and Ford E-Series/Club Wagon.