8 Most Dependable Trucks and Utilities of 2012

DETROIT TheStreet) -- Toyota (TM) may have had a difficult year in 2011, but the J.D. Power 2012 dependability study provides an indication of why the Japanese automaker has such an enviable reputation.

In the recently released study, which considered 2009 vehicles, Toyota came out ahead of its competitors. The Toyota, Lexus and Scion nameplates won eight segment awards, while Ford (F), along with Lincoln, was second with three awards.

The Ford Explorer tied for best midsize crossover in the latest J.D. Power rankings.

Two GM (GM) brands, Buick and Chevy, won two awards, as did Nissan (NSANY). Lexus ranked highest among all nameplates. Rounding out the top five are Porsche, Cadillac, Toyota and Scion, respectively.

The pattern continued in the seven categories in the truck, utility and van sectors, where the three Toyota brands produced four winners and two runners-up, while Ford had two winners and two runners-up. Nissan also had two winners.

The study, conducted between October and December, is based on responses from more than 31,000 original owners of 2009 model-year vehicles after three years of ownership. It measures problems experienced during the past 12 months. Overall dependability is determined by the level of problems experienced per 100 vehicles, with a lower score reflecting higher quality.

The overall dependability average in 2012 was 132 problems per 100 vehicles. This compares with the 2011 average of 151 problems per 100 vehicles.

Last week, we listed the top eight cars. These are the top eight trucks, utility vehicles and vans:

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