Let’s cut to the chase. Are Chinese cars reliable? Or are the recent claims of long strides made by Chinese automakers in terms of quality just rumors?

Well, let us say this. Anyone doubting the quality of Chinese cars hasn’t driven one or knows nothing about the Chinese auto industry.

In either case, you must read this blog post till the very end. In this post, we’ll tackle the top 8 concerns about Chinese car’s safety, durability, and reliability.

Get ready to dispel the myths and discover the truth about Chinese cars! However, remember that today, we’ll mainly talk about the reliability of fuel-powered cars from China.

1. How Reliable are Chinese Cars in 2024?

Chinese cars have come a long way in terms of reliability in 2024.  The best way to check the reliability of cars is to see their PP100 stats. PP100, as many of you might know, means “problems per 100 vehicles.” It is a metric used to quantify the number of reported problems.

So, according to the J.D. Power 2024 China IQS, the overall average for the initial quality of cars in China is 212 PP100. Domestic brands scored an average of 216 PP100, international brands averaged 209 PP100, and premium brands scored 213 PP100.

Now, let’s put things in perspective.

Ford and Chevrolet scored around 215-220 PP100 in the same J.D. Power survey. This places them on par with or slightly below some Chinese competitors like Geely, GAC, and Chery.

Japanese cars considered the benchmark in reliability, have performed somewhat similarly to Chinese cars. Toyota averages around 197 PP100, and Honda at 201 PP100.

All of this means that Chinese cars are becoming increasingly reliable. More consumers are recognizing the improved quality of Chinese vehicles. If you opt for a reputable Chinese car model, you can expect a driving experience better than that of established Western brands.

2. How Long Do Chinese Cars Last?

The lifespan of a Chinese car typically ranges from 10 to 15 years or between 200,000-500,000 km. This is as good as some Japanese brands with the longest lifespan. However, the lifespan of a car depends on factors like maintenance, driving habits, and model quality.

Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity of your Chinese car. Following the manufacturer’s service schedule can help extend your car’s life. Many users of Chinese cars report that their vehicles have remained in excellent condition for over a decade with proper care.

3. Do Chinese Cars Breakdown Often?

No, Chinese cars do not break down often. This is another myth floating about Chinese cars on the market. In fact, Chinese cars only break down as much as any other established Western brand. Let’s review some data to back up this proposition.

In 2019, the failure frequency in Chinese passenger cars was reported at 19% for significant breakdowns. Out of these issues, only 6.8% required major repairs.

This figure is showing a downward trend in the more recent years. According to a more recent survey, now less than 15% of Chinese cars experience significant breakdowns in a year.

On the other hand, the average failure rate for American cars is around 20%. Similarly, for German cars, the average breakdown frequency is 18%. Therefore, we can safely say that Chinese cars are as good as cars from any other country. In fact, they are slightly better.

4. What is the Average Maintenance Cost of Chinese Cars?

Maintenance costs for Chinese cars are considerably lower than those for Western brands. On average, you can expect to spend about $300 to $500 annually on routine maintenance. This includes oil changes, tire rotations, and minor repairs.

The ownership cost of Chinese cars is one of the lowest, if not the lowest. The reason is that Chinese cars often use affordable parts, which helps keep costs down.

Plus, you only face a limited number of issues with a Chinese car. Therefore, the total cost of owning a Chinese car is relatively low.

According to most surveys, the average maintenance cost of Chinese cars is even lower than their Japanese counterparts. Now, let us remind you that Japanese cars are known for their low maintenance costs worldwide.

For example, Toyota has an average 10-year maintenance cost of about $5,445, translating to around $544.50 per year. It is much lower than German or American car brands, with an annual maintenance cost of $750 or more.

However, Chinese cars are even better. Their maintenance cost is 30-40% lower than Japanese car brands. Though it varies from brand to brand, any Chinese brand would still beat American and German car brands any day of the week.

5. Are Chinese Cars Safe to Drive?

Yes, Chinese cars are perfectly safe to drive. The China NCAP ensures that modern Chinese cars prioritize safety. Latest models of safest Chinese cars come equipped with advanced safety features like airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.

Many Chinese cars have also achieved high safety ratings in independent crash tests in other countries. However, it’s essential to research specific models before purchasing. Look for crash test ratings to ensure you choose a safe vehicle for you and your passengers.

6. How is the Build Quality of Chinese Cars?

Build quality varies among Chinese car manufacturers but has generally improved over recent years. Many new models feature better materials and construction techniques compared to older versions. Brands like Changan and SAIC are being recognized for their solid build quality.

However, the build quality of Chinese cars is usually connected with their price, as is the case with any other car. If you buy a luxury-segment car, the chances of finding better materials are high. In low-priced vehicles, you might be looking at a sloppy finish.

7. What are the Most Common Issues with Chinese Cars?

Chinese cars are high on technology. They have so many features that a car can take. Chinese cars are loved by many due to their exceptional value for money. A $20,000 Chinese car would give you the same level of features and comfort as any other expensive car from America or Germany.

This is from where most issues stem. Common issues with Chinese cars include electrical problems and software glitches, which are pretty normal with high-tech cars. Some owners report issues with infotainment systems or sensors not functioning correctly.

8. What are the Most Reliable Chinese Car Brands?

Many Chinese car brands have consistently received positive feedback from owners regarding reliability and performance. Some of the most reliable Chinese car brands in 2024 include:

• Chery: 203 PP 100
• Geely: 204 PP 100
• GAC Trumpchi: 206 PP 100

Final Word: Are Chinese Cars Reliable? 8 FAQs Answered!

So, are Chinese cars reliable? The answer is a resounding yes. Chinese automakers have made significant strides in recent years when it comes to quality.

They can outcompete any car from a Western brand. However, reliability remains a factor that can vary between brands and models. So, it’s essential to do your research.

Are you looking to import a reliable Chinese car? GuangcaiAuto can help. We are your trusted partner in importing the best Chinese cars.

With 16+ years of experience, high-level export qualifications, and spare part support, we make the process of importing cars from China seamless.

You can directly place an order on our website or contact us to discuss your options. Please explore our blog for the latest news and offers from the Chinese auto market.