Trust & Transparency
MYCAR SCORE™ METHODOLOGY
Exactly how we rate vehicles, where the data comes from, and what the numbers mean.
What Is the MyCar Score™?
The MyCar Score™ is a proprietary rating that combines safety data, fuel efficiency, performance, and value into a single number for every vehicle we have rated. It is designed to give used car buyers a quick, data-driven way to compare vehicles across different makes, models, and years.
The score is independently calculated by mycarneedsthis.com. It is not influenced by manufacturer relationships, advertising revenue, or affiliate partnerships. When underlying data changes (new NHTSA ratings, updated recall counts), scores are recalculated automatically.
Editorial Process
Vehicle ratings are calculated from verified federal safety data, federal fuel economy data, and manufacturer specifications. The specific source for any given data point is cited inline on the vehicle and guide pages where the claim is made.
Editorial guides on this site are researched and drafted with AI assistance and reviewed by the MyCarNeedsThis editorial team before publication. Scores are recalculated automatically when underlying data is updated.
Component Weights
The score combines four weighted factors. Safety carries the most weight because crash outcomes matter most; fuel economy, performance, and value each contribute meaningfully to a well-rounded view of the vehicle.
Safety (NHTSA Stars)
Safety: ~36%Overall star rating from NHTSA crash testing. Higher star ratings contribute more to the final score. Ratings are sourced directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Fuel Efficiency (EPA MPG)
Fuel: ~21%Combined MPG compared to the median for the vehicle's class. More fuel-efficient vehicles score higher. Electric vehicles use MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) when standard MPG is unavailable. Data comes from the EPA.
Performance (Power-to-Weight)
Performance: ~21%Horsepower relative to curb weight, compared to the class median. This measures real-world acceleration capability rather than raw horsepower alone.
Value (MSRP vs Class)
Value: ~22%Base MSRP compared to the class median. Vehicles that offer more capability per dollar score higher. This measures new-vehicle value, which correlates with used-vehicle value retention.
Reliability Adjustments
After the weighted components are combined, the score is adjusted based on real-world reliability signals from NHTSA:
Recall Adjustment
Vehicles with more NHTSA recalls receive a score reduction. This reflects real-world reliability and safety concerns.
Complaint Adjustment
NHTSA consumer complaints indicate owner-reported problems. A high complaint volume suggests systemic issues beyond normal wear.
How to Read the Score
Higher scores indicate above-average safety, efficiency, and value relative to class peers, after reliability adjustments. Compare scores within the same vehicle class for the most useful read, since class medians anchor several of the components above.
What the Score Does Not Cover
The MyCar Score™ is a starting point, not a final verdict. It does not account for:
- Individual vehicle condition (mileage, maintenance history, accident history)
- Regional pricing differences or current market conditions
- Subjective factors like ride quality, interior comfort, or brand preference
- Insurance costs, which vary by driver profile and location
- Aftermarket modifications or dealer add-ons
Always combine the MyCar Score™ with a pre-purchase inspection, a vehicle history report, and your own test drive before making a purchase decision.
Version History
v1.4 (March 2026)
NHTSA enrichment completed for all make/model/year combos. Full safety rating, recall, and complaint data now reflected in scores.
v1.3 (February 2026)
Initial scored release with spec-based formula. Partial NHTSA data. Validated against third-party editorial ratings.
See the Scores in Action
Browse vehicles by make and model, or decode a VIN to see the MyCar Score™ for a specific vehicle.