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 any significant changes in a model's reliability become apparent quickly.

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--need more Outlanders and Airtreks!

The 2007 is now included in the main survey, but all years of the first-gen Outlander remain below the minimum.

Mitsubishi Outlander reliability research

Updated results in a few weeks. Outlander not included yet; hopefully soon.

Updated results in a week or so.

Still not enough first-gen Outlanders signed up to include them in the survey. The 2007 is well over the minimum, so it can be done.

For the details and links to the enrollment form:

Vehicle reliability research

The May results will include the 2007.

Let's get the first-gen in future updates!

Vehicle reliability research