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 any bump in repair rates will be evident sooner.
I haven't started collecting data on the BMW X5 yet because too few owners are signed up to help out.
Participants 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 free of charge.
For the details, and to sign up:
Vehicle reliability research
Comments, questions, and suggestions welcome.
02-27-2007, 01:47 PM
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