Ford Earns Top Mainstream Brand Ranking in J.D. Power Initial Quality Study

When you invest in a new vehicle, quality matters just as much as performance, technology, and capability. That’s why the latest results from the 2026 J.D. Power U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS) are exciting news for Ford drivers. Ford has been named the No. 1 mainstream brand for initial quality, marking the first time the automaker has earned the top spot since 2010. For drivers shopping at Keller Bros Ford Lebanon, this recognition highlights Ford’s ongoing commitment to building dependable, high-quality vehicles you can feel confident driving every day. 

What Is the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study?

The J.D. Power U.S. Initial Quality Study is one of the automotive industry’s most respected benchmarks for new vehicle quality. The study measures the number of problems experienced by owners during the first 90 days of ownership, providing valuable insight into how vehicles perform when they’re brand new. More than 78,000 owners and lessees of 2026 model-year vehicles participated in this year’s study, making it one of the most comprehensive quality evaluations available. 

Ford’s impressive climb from the middle of the pack just a few years ago to the highest-ranked mainstream brand demonstrates the company’s focus on continuous improvement and delivering a better ownership experience.

Ford Models Continue to Lead Their Segments

Ford’s success wasn’t limited to the overall brand ranking. Several of its most popular vehicles also earned top honors in their respective segments.

The Ford F-150, Ford Mustang, and Ford Super Duty each ranked highest in their categories for the second consecutive year. Additionally, the Ford Escape, Explorer, Expedition, and Maverick all finished among the top three in their segments. In total, seven of the ten Ford models evaluated placed in the top three—more than any other automaker included in the study. 

Whether you’re searching for a capable pickup, a family-friendly SUV, or an iconic performance car, these results reinforce Ford’s reputation for delivering vehicles that exceed customer expectations.

Ford’s Commitment to Higher Quality

Ford’s rise to the top didn’t happen overnight. According to the company, the achievement is the result of several years of focused improvements throughout the design, engineering, manufacturing, and quality assurance process.

Ford strengthened collaboration between engineering and manufacturing teams, brought experienced engineers into critical design reviews, worked more closely with suppliers during vehicle development, expanded the use of advanced inspection technologies, and significantly enhanced software testing. These improvements helped reduce vehicle issues across nearly every category measured by J.D. Power, with particularly strong gains in infotainment and powertrain quality. The result is a lineup of vehicles designed to provide greater reliability, improved technology, and a better ownership experience from day one.

Experience Ford Quality at Keller Bros Ford Lebanon

For drivers throughout Lebanon County, the 2026 J.D. Power Initial Quality Study provides another compelling reason to consider a new Ford. From hardworking trucks like the F-150 and Super Duty to versatile SUVs like the Explorer, Escape, and Expedition, today’s Ford lineup combines innovation with award-winning quality.

At Keller Bros Ford Lebanon, we’re proud to help our customers find vehicles built to deliver confidence on every drive. If you’re ready to experience Ford’s award-winning quality for yourself, visit our dealership in Lebanon, PA, browse our new Ford inventory online, or schedule a test drive today. Our team looks forward to helping you find the Ford that’s right for your lifestyle.