A report released by RDA Group today shows 2007 model year Ford , Lincoln , and Mercury cars made during the first quarter of the year are nearly equal in initial quality to those made by Toyota , and better than those made by Nissan . Ford vehicles received a score of 1456 problems per 1000 vehicles, while Toyota scored 1453 and Nissan received a 1457.
Ford ’s score improved 8% when compared to results from a year ago. The industry as an average only improved 2% allowing Ford to make up lost ground in the quality survey.
One of the most trouble-free vehicles was the Mercury Milan which had 910 problems reported per 1,000 vehicles.
Ford paid RDA to conduct the study, but maintains it is scientifically valid. This study, along with increasing car and crossover sales, seems to provide the proof that Ford’s designs and product quality are improving. Results, such as the one from this survey, will likely become a central theme in Ford’s “Bold Moves” campaign.
