The Toyota Camry is widely regarded as more reliable than the Honda Accord, with the Lexus ES and Toyota Corolla also scoring higher in long-term dependability surveys.
Reliability rankings come from Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and other outlets that track maintenance costs, repairs, and owner satisfaction. This article surveys those findings as of 2026, noting that year, trim, and maintenance history can shift a model’s reliability profile.
Why reliability rankings matter
Reliability scores influence total ownership costs, downtime, and resale value. They reflect how often a model needs repairs, the severity and cost of those repairs, and how satisfied owners are with the ownership experience. While the Honda Accord remains a solid pick, other models in this segment frequently lead in dependability ratings.
Top contenders that outrank the Accord
Here's a snapshot of models that reliably score higher than the Accord in major reliability surveys, based on recent years of data.
- Toyota Camry
- Lexus ES
- Toyota Corolla
- Hyundai Sonata
- Hyundai Elantra
These options span mainstream and near-luxury segments, offering strong reliability along with different value propositions like greater luxury (Lexus) or longer warranty coverage (Hyundai).
Year-to-year variations
Reliability can vary from one model year to the next, even within the same generation. When shopping, it helps to review the specific year’s reliability scores, recall history, and owner feedback rather than relying on the model name alone.
How to verify reliability for your needs
Consult multiple sources to form a balanced view. Consumer Reports’ predicted reliability scores, J.D. Power quality and dependability ratings, and aggregated owner reviews can guide your decision. Also consider total ownership costs, including maintenance, fuel economy, insurance, and the availability of warranty coverage. If you’re upgrading from a Honda Accord, compare not just reliability but also features, driving feel, and resale value for the years you’re considering.
Summary
In reliability terms, the Toyota Camry, Lexus ES, and Toyota Corolla repeatedly outrank the Honda Accord in major surveys, with Hyundai Sonata and Hyundai Elantra also performing well in recent years. However, reliability is year-specific and depends on maintenance; the best choice for you depends on your budget, how you drive, and how much value you place on warranty coverage, fuel efficiency, and available features. Always check model-year reliability data and test drive several candidates before deciding.