F1 Reliability & DNF Analysis
Mechanical failures, driver consistency, and reliability trends
Driver DNF Rates (Did Not Finish)
Lewis Hamilton
3,000+ starts
8%
DNF rate
Michael Schumacher
291 races
12%
DNF rate
Max Verstappen
Active driver
9%
DNF rate
Sebastian Vettel
Retired 2022
14%
DNF rate
Types of Mechanical Failures
Hydraulic Failures
Engine Failure
Brake Issues
Transmission Failure
Suspension Damage
Era Comparison
1980s-1990s
35-40%
Average DNF rate
High mechanical failures
2000s-2010s
25-30%
Average DNF rate
Improved reliability
2020-Present
15-20%
Average DNF rate
Modern reliability
Reliability Evolution
Formula 1 reliability has improved dramatically over decades. In the 1980s-90s, 35-40% of cars didn't finish races. Modern F1 has near-95% reliability rates with most DNFs caused by accidents or strategic retirements rather than mechanical failure. This evolution reflects advances in engineering, testing, and durability standards.