“Reliability” is one of the most important qualities in a car. We depend on them to get us to work, get the kids to their various activities, shopping and many, many other aspects of our daily lives. For most families a car that will be there for you when you need it is a necessity. California lemon law and the lemon laws of other states recognize the importance of the automobile to our daily lives by providing remedies to buyers whose cars are substantially defective.

The highly-respected magazine, Consumer Reports, also takes heed of the importance of reliability by publishing an annual reliability survey based on actual experiences of car owners. Asian cars have for many years dominated the survey and 2009 in which they captured nine of the top ten spots was no exception. Mercury came in tenth. Combined with Ford’s sixteenth-place finish, this made Ford by far the best of the US automakers and also the only one that appears to be gaining on its international competition. Consumer Reports noted that it is the sole US automaker to achieve “world-class reliability.” By contrast, Chrysler’s three brands slipped further in the ratings, though the survey mostly reflects cars that were made before the new ownership team took over.

How well a brand or model did in a survey will not of course tell you whether or not you have a lemon. If your car is not performing, regardless of its reputation, don’t delay getting needed repairs. If it still isn’t fixed a qualified lemon law attorney can help you determine whether or not you have a case.