According to the 2011 Vehicle Dependability Study, owners of domestic models reported 309 problems per hundred vehicles during the first 13 to 36 months of ownership. That's down from 444 problems per hundred vehicles in 2010.

Owners of foreign brands reported 177 problems per hundred vehicles, down from 243.

The most frequently reported problems were loss of engine power when the air conditioner is on, noisy brakes, broken wipers, excessive fuel consumption and bad-smelling air from the vents.

J.D. Power's survey, which measures the dependability of vehicles that are one to three years old, is in its second year. The survey asks owners about problems they experience with their vehicles in eight categories: powertrain, vehicle exterior, driving experience, controls and displays, audio, seats, climate control and vehicle interior.

The Westlake Village, Calif., research firm also conducts an Initial Quality Study that rates vehicles after six months of ownership.

The Vehicle Dependability Study did not rate individual brands, but it listed top models in each segment:

Compact: BYD F0
Premium compact: Suzuki Swift
Entry midsize: Nissan Livina
Midsize: Toyota Corolla EX
Lower premium midsize: FAW Besturn B70
Upper premium: Nissan Teana and Toyota Camry (tie)
SUV: Honda CR-V
Microvan: Wuling Sunshine