The reliability of electric cars and plug-in hybrids is improving, but they still remain more trouble-prone than cars without plugs, according to a new Consumer Reports survey.
On average, EVs had 70% more problems than internal-combustion vehicles, the survey found. Electric cars, electric SUVs, and electric pickups are all among the least-reliable vehicle categories surveyed. Plug-in hybrids averaged 146% more problems than non-hybrid vehicles.
A previous survey pointed to the more complex interfaces and tech features automakers tend to pile onto EVs and plug-in hybrids as the main source of reliability issues. This time, it's battery and charging systems as well, according to Consumer Reports.
![2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid 2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid](https://images.hgmsites.net/lrg/2019-chrysler-pacifica_100705995_l.jpg)
2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
Hybrids, on the other hand, were more reliable than non-hybrid internal-combustion vehicles, with 26% fewer problems, according to the survey. This also continues a trend reported in previous surveys.
EV and plug-in hybrid reliability varied by brand and model. Some of the least-reliable plug-in hybrid models included the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid and Audi Q5 plug-in hybrid. But other brands exceeded expectations.
Tesla was the second-ranked domestic brand (at number 14), while the Model 3 and Model Y received "average" reliability scores. The Model S and Model X were rated "below average."
![2023 Tesla Model X - Courtesy of Tesla, Inc. 2023 Tesla Model X - Courtesy of Tesla, Inc.](https://images.hgmsites.net/lrg/2023-tesla-model-x_100872655_l.jpg)
2023 Tesla Model X - Courtesy of Tesla, Inc.
Other plug-in reliability bright spots included the Nissan Ariya and the Ford Mustang Mach-E, which has improved to the point that it now makes Consumer Reports' recommended list. Consumer Reports also notes that the Toyota RAV4 Prime bucks the plug-in hybrid trend for reliability issues and is "well above average."
Buick, a brand with no U.S. plug-in vehicles, ranks at the top of domestic brands in reliability. General Motors said last year that Buick will transition to an all-electric lineup by 2030, with the first Buick EVs arriving in 2024. Ahead of that EV remake, Buick offered buyouts to dealers not interested in making the switch.