Chrysler improves in JD Power ratings

Chrysler-brand vehicles scored above average in the J.D. Powers 2009 Vehicle Dependability Study which surveys owners of 3-year-old light vehicles. With a score of 165 problems per vehicle, Chrysler came in ahead of BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo.

The Dodge Caravan was best-rated minivan, beating the Ford Freestar and Toyota Sienna. Overall, Dodge vehicles came in below the average of 170 problems with a score of 202, while Jeep brought up the rear at 220 problems, still ahead of Hummer and Land Rover.

Top brands in the survey were Buick and Jaguar, tied at 122 problems each. They knocked off long-time champion Lexus which came in third with 126. at the bottom were Volkswagen and Suzuki.

All Ford domestic brands did well with an average score of 146. GM’s domestic brands averaged 183, while Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep came in at 196.