As automakers push toward “software-defined vehicles,” a new J.D. Power study reveals that technology—not engines or drivetrains—remains the least reliable part of modern cars.
According to the 2026 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, owners continue to experience persistent problems connecting their phones to their vehicles through Bluetooth, wireless charging pads, and manufacturer apps. Infotainment issues topped the list for the third year in a row, with 56.7 problems per 100 vehicles—more than double the next most troublesome category.
The study also highlights growing skepticism toward over-the-air (OTA) updates. While manufacturers view OTA updates as a future revenue source that will allow drivers to pay for new features and software upgrades, 58% of owners reported no noticeable improvement after receiving an update. Only 27% said their experience improved.
J.D. Power’s Jason Norton summed up the disconnect: automakers need to ensure updates are meaningful and clearly explained, because “the messaging is not really hitting home with a lot of customers.”
A Wave of Software-Related Recalls
The push toward software-heavy vehicles has also brought a surge of software-driven recalls. In 2025 alone:
– Ford issued multiple recalls over malfunctioning backup cameras and blank instrument clusters.
– Toyota and Lexus recalled vehicles for camera-related software issues.
– Honda recalled certain Accord hybrids over software errors.
– General Motors recalled Cadillac Lyriq models due to instrument-cluster glitches.
These public software failures underscore how far the industry still has to go in delivering a stable, seamless digital experience.
Consumers Still Prefer Their Phones
Perhaps the most striking insight: while automakers attempt to shift drivers away from smartphone-mirroring systems like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, consumers say these connectivity features are their top concern. Manufacturers such as General Motors have even begun phasing out CarPlay and Android Auto entirely, despite strong customer reliance on them.
As Norton explains, drivers live their lives through their phones—so they expect their cars to integrate smoothly with the devices they trust.
Premium Doesn’t Always Mean Better
The study also found that premium vehicles underperformed mass-market brands in seven of nine categories, including features, controls, and displays—suggesting that complexity may be hurting, rather than helping, the luxury experience.
If you’re experiencing software issues with a 2020 – 2026 vehicle which haven’t been fixed in a reasonable number of attempts while under warranty, Joseph Kaufman and Associates can help you file a lemon claim seeking a repurchase or cash settlement.
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