According to a recent survey by Consumer Reports, there has been a notable improvement in the reliability of EVs compared to the previous year. This development brings good news for those considering making the switch to electric vehicles. The survey data reveals that hybrids and pure combustion cars have been relatively reliable, while plug-ins still face some issues.

Unveiling the Truth about EV Reliability

Improvement in EV Reliability

The latest Consumer Reports reliability survey shows that EVs made in the last three model years are on the path to improvement. Hybrid vehicles have emerged as more reliable than pure combustion cars, which in turn are better than electric and plug-in hybrid models. This survey gathered data from approximately 300,000 2022 through 2024 model-year vehicles, with a significant increase in responses from hybrid and plug-in hybrid owners, highlighting the growing popularity of these models. 1: The data indicates that PHEVs still have a ways to go, with 70% more problems than non-electrified cars. However, this is a massive improvement from last year when PHEVs had 146% more issues. EVs themselves have also shown progress, with a decrease in problems from 79% more than ICE last year to 42% more this year. 2: While non-plug-in hybrids are still rated as about as reliable as pure combustion cars, not all hybrids are created equal. The Ford F-150 hybrid and Volkswagen ID.4, for example, have been among the least reliable in the survey.

The Most Reliable EVs

Among the EVs, the BMW i4 stands out as the most reliable. However, most EVs, including the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, show average reliability, while the Model S and Model X rate below average. The Cadillac Lyriq and Chevrolet Blazer EV also face reliability issues, with many owners reporting problems with the EV battery, electrical accessories, climate system, and in-car electronics. 1: Some models, like the BMW iX, Audi Q8 E-Tron, and Kia EV6, have even lost their CR recommendations due to reliability concerns. The production of the Audi will be halted sooner than planned, and it may become difficult to purchase a new one after the middle of next year. 2: Despite the overall improvement in EV reliability, it is still being dragged down by several cars built by inexperienced startup companies. The Lucid Air may be the least reliable sedan based on CR's data, although there is limited information available. Rivian, on the other hand, has been rated as the least reliable in terms of general brand reliability.

Recommendations for Plug-in Hybrids

Although CR states that plug-in hybrids are generally more problematic, it does recommend the Volvo XC60 PHEV and the Toyota RAV4 Prime. The Toyota RAV4 Prime is actually the most reliable vehicle in this year's survey. However, the Mazda CX-90 PHEV still needs some work as it was rated the least reliable three-row SUV. 1: Steven Elek, who manages the auto data program at CR, explains that for EVs, it is not only drivetrain, battery, and charging problems that affect the score. EVs often serve as a test bed for new technology, leading to more electrical accessory and in-car electronics issues. 2: This trend seems to be shifting automakers towards becoming tech companies, with their focus shifting towards producing the best "smartphone on wheels."