French mechanics point to foreign brand as most reliable

Do you think your vehicle is reliable? A number of French mechanics have given their opinion on the most robust vehicles – and it is backed up by several studies. 

Drivers in France will be familiar with the contrôle technique, mandatory roadworthiness tests for all vehicles.

A new vehicle requires its first test at four years, and then every two years thereafter. 

The test checks hundreds of a vehicle’s elements, ensuring it is safe for the road. 

Minor faults are noted but do not have to be fixed, however critical faults must see the vehicle repaired before it can be driven again. 

Japanese brand the best

Mechanics questioned by Le Figaro all agreed that vehicles from one brand in particular stood out. 

“Taxi drivers, who cover tens of thousands of kilometres a year, need ultra-reliable vehicles. Look at the ones in Paris: what do most of them drive? Japanese vehicles, often Toyotas,” said one. 

“These choices are no coincidence,” he added. 

“I’ve seen Toyotas with 500,000 kilometres on the clock and no major issues,” said another. 

“Other vehicles generally show signs of wear on crucial components, such as the front and rear suspension, very early on, sometimes before 20,000 km,” he added.

The Yaris model in particular was highlighted by mechanics for its reliability as an affordable price tag, alongside its “fuel efficiency and mechanical durability,” the former being vital at a time of rising petrol and diesel costs. 

Toyota and Lexus – the luxury brand owned by the company – consistently rank among the most reliable vehicles in international surveys, including J.D. Power, Consumer Reports, the Honest John Satisfaction Index, and What Car?. 

Millions of vehicles recalled

French brands in comparison were somewhat derided by mechanics. 

“French cars certainly don't take the prize for reliability,” said one from the Lot department.

It is worth noting that in today’s globalised market however, vehicles rely on a cross-continental manufacturing system. 

The Takata airbag scandal, which has seen millions of vehicles recalled worldwide over faulty airbags, has affected brands from across the world including Toyota. 

Indeed, contrôle technique tests now check for faulty airbags in some cases.