PT Rich posted about my research months ago, but in the non-PT discussion area. Does everyone visit that forum? That thread:
Vehicle Reliability Research
Just in case people don't visit that forum, I should probably post something here.
In late 2005 I started conducting my own reliability research. I'm reporting absolute stats like "times in the shop" that will make the differences between cars much clearer. Relative ratings obscure too much--how large is the difference between "better than average" and "worse than average"? I’ll also be updating results four times a year, so there will be information on new models sooner.
I'd like to start collecting data on the PT Cruiser because my wife happens to own a 2002 Dreamer I. But not enough owners have signed up to participate. 2001, 2002, and 2003 are all getting close, but aren't to the minimum of 25.
To encourage participation, panel members will receive full access to the results free of charge.
Details:
Vehicle reliability research
Comments, questions, and suggestions welcome.