Why Japanese Cars are Preferred: Reliability and Quality
Are Japanese cars more reliable, and why do people choose them over German brands like BMW and Audi? This article explores the reliability of Japanese cars, their quality, and the reasons why they are favored by many consumers.
Reliability and Maintenance
It's often said that Japanese cars are more reliable. This is not necessarily true. With proper care and maintenance, following the manufacturer's specified service schedules, Japanese cars are just as reliable as German cars or any other makes. My 1991 E34 Touring, for instance, continues to perform brilliantly under meticulous maintenance, proving that reliability is not an inherent feature but rather a result of proper care.
Company Culture and Quality Assurance
The very simple answer lies in the company culture of car manufacturers. Take, for example, Toyota, a renowned Japanese car brand. Mr. Toyoda, the founder of Toyota, has an unwavering focus on quality and process. Every part of their vehicles is meticulously tested until it breaks down. Only when a part fails is Toyota committed to making improvements. In contrast, other manufacturers might be more eager to produce parts and components without giving the same level of scrutiny, leading to potential failures that require replacements.
Historical Context and Quality Focus
After World War II, U.S. cars faced criticism for being too expensive. As a result, U.S. car manufacturers focused on reducing costs. In contrast, Japanese car manufacturers, notably Toyota and Honda, were known for their poor quality. However, they prioritized improving quality over cost-cutting measures. Fortunately for the Japanese, quality expert Dr. Kaoru Ishikawa and American management consultant W. Edwards Deming made their ideas and methodologies readily accessible. The Japanese embraced and improved upon these concepts, whereas American manufacturers did not.
A Personal Experience
I have firsthand experience with this preference for Japanese cars. Prior to inheriting money, I owned multiple Toyotas and Hondas. Now, I own a Mercedes and an Audi. The reason many choose Japanese cars over German ones often comes down to the cost and quality. Japanese cars, on average, cost less and are built with higher quality, which is reflected in their reliability over time.
Reliability in the Modern Era
In today's automotive landscape, with the increasing integration of computer components, the term 'reliability' becomes subjective. Not all Japanese cars are equally reliable. Car enthusiasts often point out that models like Nissan, Infiniti, and Mitsubishi have lower reliability compared to models from Toyota, Lexus, Honda, and Acura. However, reputable studies and reviews indicate that the latter two are generally more reliable and durable. For instance, Mercedes, a German brand, can be quite reliable, especially if made in Germany. My mother’s 2013 ML 350, which was assembled in Louisiana, has only required standard maintenance costs of $1,000 annually. This can be considered a reasonable figure, confirming the longevity of German cars if they are made under the right conditions.
Conclusion
The choice between Japanese and German cars ultimately hinges on individual preferences, budget, and reliability needs. Japanese cars, particularly Toyota, Lexus, Honda, and Acura, are often preferred for their cost and quality. However, both Japanese and German cars have high-end options with exceptional reliability. The key is to conduct thorough research and choose the car that best meets your needs. Whether you prioritize reliability, quality, or cost, your decision can make a significant difference in your driving experience.