Because existing sources of auto reliability information left much to be desired, in late 2005 I started conducting my own reliability research at TrueDelta.com. TrueDelta reports absolute stats like "trips to the shop" that make the differences between cars much clearer. Results are updated four times a year, so it's possible to provide reliability information on new models quickly. Also, any significant changes in a model's reliability become apparent quickly.

I have not yet included the Avalon in this research because too few owners have signed up to participate. The closest model year, 2006, is about two-thirds of the way to the minimum.

Participants simply report repairs the month after they occur on a one-page survey. When there are no repairs, they simply report an approximate odometer reading four times a year, at the end of each quarter.

To encourage participation, panel members will receive full access to the results for free.

For the details, and to sign up to help out:

Auto reliability research

Updated results in early February for 90+ other models. The Avalon isn't included in the main survey yet, but is getting closer.

Auto reliability research

Those results have been posted. The Avalon isn't included yet. 75 owners have signed up so far, but they're spread across many model years.

With 16, the 2006 is closest to the minimum of 25.

For the details, and to helpl get your model year included:

Vehicle reliability research

Closer, but not there yet. Still need more participants.

Vehicle reliability research

Latest results recently posted for 120+ other models.

I'd like to get the Avalon into future updates.

For the full set of results, and sign up to help (if you haven't already):

TrueDelta Vehicle Reliability Survey results

Next update in August. The Avalon is still not included in the survey.

Vehicle reliability research

Just a few owners short of the minimum with the 2006.

So far 111 Avalon owners have signed up. A good start, but more are needed. The 2006 remains five owners short of the minimum...

Vehicle reliability research