Are electric cars reliable? That’s one of the first questions most people ask themselves when looking to move from owning a traditional petrol or diesel car to a greener EV model.
Like any type of car, the answer to this question depends on the make and model you choose. At one time electric cars may have — unfairly — had a reputation for suffering mechanical problems, but that’s certainly not the case anymore.
That’s reflected in the growing number of electric car sales in the UK, with 6.6% of all vehicles sold in 2020 being EV models, according to data from WhatCar?
In this post, we look at the range of technologies that make electric cars more reliable than ever, as well as the most reliable EVs currently on the market.
Why electric cars are more reliable than ever
Simply put, the technology which makes up the most popular EVs is now better than ever.
There are still moving parts to take care of but without the myriad of components needed to power a combustion engine, such as in traditional vehicles, in many ways EVs present owners with fewer problems.
Additionally, any electric vehicle you choose will operate with a form of regenerative braking (kinetic energy causing friction to slow the vehicle down). This causes less wear on the brake pads compared to fuel-powered vehicles — resulting in improved reliability across the lifespan of the vehicle.
Battery warranties offer owners protection
Most electric car batteries are predicted to last between ten to twenty years before they need to be replaced, while all vehicle manufacturers are required to cover their EV batteries.
In the United Kingdom, all EV manufacturers are required to cover electric car batteries for a set period of time or distance, which is around eight years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Are electric cars reliable? If you’re still asking yourself that question, you should know that, In some cases, electric vehicle batteries have been known to last beyond 100,000 miles and even beyond 150,000 miles.
The most reliable electric cars
According to a survey published by WhatCar? in 2021, the most dependable electric cars (between one and five years old) on the market are:
Number one? The Tesla Model 3
Tesla is perhaps the most-hyped electric car brand — for good reason. Jam-packed with the latest technology and irresistibly smooth to drive, many experts rate the Tesla Model 3 as being the best on the market as well as the most
reliable.
Number two…Volkswagen ID.3
This roomy family hatchback is fun to drive and with a long-range battery that’s rated as one of the most reliable on the market, it’s a great choice for anyone.
Third place: Porsche Taycan
The Porsche Taycan is a classy and reliable drive perfect for anyone looking to turn heads. With an almost perfect interior and superior performance, this is the sportiest choice on the WhatCar? list.
The best of the rest
- Skoda Enyaq iV
- Fiat 500
- BMW iX3
- Volkswagen ID.4
- Kia e-Niro
- Peugeot e-208
- Jaguar I-Pace
For its survey, WhatCar? rated models from thirty-one brands. According to the monthly automobile magazine and website, the survey was: “based on the number of faults suffered in the previous 12 months, how long each problem kept the car off the road and the cost of any repairs.”
Your choice depends on your preferences. Of course, reliability will be your number one concern, although nearly all EVs on the market score well in that department.
In addition to reliability, there’s also the handling and spaciousness of the cabin and boot to consider, as well as the smoothness and responsiveness of the drive.
Are electric cars reliable?
Whether you’ve already made the switch to an electric vehicle, or you’re planning to in the near future, our expert team can help you find the best products for your needs. Plus, with the UK ban on diesel and petrol cars moved forward to 2030 there’s never been a better time to go electric.
If you have any questions about your EV please read our frequently asked questions.