For years, problems with infotainment systems and other electronics in new vehicles have been the bane of automakers’ existence. However, it appears the industry’s beginning to get handle on resolving these issues, at least according to the latest J.D. Power study.
A new J.D. Power study shows automakers are making progress with problematic in-vehicle electronics.
As cars, trucks, crossovers and minivans have grown more complex, the problems with their convenience-oriented technologies have caused problems. Buggy screens, poor voice recognition and other issues have driven consumers crazy.
However, the tide is turning, according to the 2024 U.S. Multimedia Quality and Satisfaction Study, which shows a reduction in problems for the first time since 2020. In 2020, overall multimedia problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) was at 39.1 and steadily increased until 2024 with 43.7 PP100, excluding repair data.
The new score is a massive drop of compared to last year, when problems were at an all-time high, with nine out of 10 problems being design-related. The top problem last year was connectivity to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
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Another big change
This year also marks the first year in three years that infotainment drops from being 25% of the industry problems. The biggest improvements amongst the top 10 problems cited by drivers are voice recognition, lack of USB ports and inconsistent volume.
“It is great to see OEMs and suppliers taking action on what were typically the biggest contributors to the increases in vehicle multimedia quality problems,” said Ashley Edgar, senior director of automotive benchmarking at J.D. Power.
“Previously long-standing issues have been addressed and those updates can be seen in the problem decreases. Looking ahead, to continue decreasing problems, further optimization of Apple Car Play and Android Auto should remain a top priority.”
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- Mercedes brings a “hyper-personalized” version of its MBUX voice assistant to CES
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Best in class
The Cadillac Escalade was a segment leader in the 2024 U.S. Multimedia Quality and Satisfaction Study.
The top vehicles in this year’s represent a significant change from last year. For the 2024 study, the highest-ranked vehicles in each segment are:
- Midsize/Large: Hyundai Santa Fe
- Midsize/Large Premium: Cadillac Escalade
- Small/Compact: Mitsubishi Outlander
- Small/Compact Premium: Cadillac CT4
Last year, the Dodge Charger (Midsize/Large), Chevrolet Corvette (Midsize/Large Premium), Kia Seltos/Nissan Kicks/Nissan Rogue (Small/Compact), and Mercedes-Benz CLA (Small/Compact Premium) were the segment leaders.
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