Are Hybrids More Reliable Than ICE Vehicles?

by TTAC Staff

Published: January 31st, 2024

Photo credit: otomobil / Shutterstock.com

The popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) is on the rise, yet they face challenges regarding reliability. Consumer Reports' 2023 Annual Auto Reliability Survey reveals that, on average, new EVs present 79 percent more problems than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Electric pickups are particularly less reliable, marking the least reliable vehicle category.

Comparative Performance: Hybrids, PHEVs, and ICE Vehicles

Hybrids emerge as more reliable options, experiencing 26 percent fewer problems than ICE vehicles. Conversely, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) show an average of 146 percent more problems compared to ICE vehicles. This variance highlights the diverse performance of electrified vehicles.

Insights from Consumer Reports' Auto Testing Director

Jake Fisher, Senior Director of Auto Testing at Consumer Reports, notes that EVs are relatively new in the mainstream market. He observes some positive trends in EV reliability but advises consumers to consider models beyond their first year of release for better reliability.

Asian Brands Lead in Reliability, Challenges for Domestic Manufacturers

Asian auto brands, particularly Lexus and Toyota, dominate Consumer Reports' 2023 brand reliability rankings. In contrast, U.S. manufacturers face challenges, with Buick being the highest-ranked domestic brand at 12th place, and Chrysler ranking last.

Tesla's Performance in Battery and Charging

Tesla models, specifically the Model Y and Model 3, show comparatively fewer issues in battery and charging, diverging from the general trend of EV problems in these areas.

Consumer Reports' Comprehensive Data Analysis

The 2023 survey encompasses feedback on over 330,000 vehicles, covering 20 potential problem areas including engine, electric motors, and in-car electronics. This data forms the basis for predicting new car reliability.

Evolving Auto Market Demands

Consumer Reports' President and CEO, Marta L. Tellado, emphasizes the unchanging consumer need for safe and reliable cars, despite shifts in the auto market. The organization's annual report aims to guide buyers towards dependable vehicle choices.

New Trouble Areas for Electrified Vehicles

With the growing presence of hybrids and EVs, Consumer Reports has added specific trouble areas to its survey, such as Electric Motor, EV/Hybrid Battery, and EV Charging, to better assess these vehicles' unique challenges.

Changes in Overall Score Calculations for Safety

Starting with 2024 models, Consumer Reports is adjusting its Overall Score system. Vehicles lacking standard automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection will see a deduction in points. Similarly, active driver assistance systems without effective direct driver monitoring systems will lead to a score reduction.

Electric Vehicles: Varied Problems Across Brands

EVs, including electric SUVs and pickups, continue to be less reliable. While Tesla faces challenges with body hardware and climate systems, other brands struggle more with powertrain, battery, and charging issues.

Hybrids Outshine PHEVs in Reliability

Hybrids are proving more reliable than both EVs and ICE vehicles. In contrast, PHEVs, due to their complexity, exhibit greater reliability issues.

Overview of Brand Performances

The survey provides a detailed analysis of various brands, highlighting their specific strengths and weaknesses across different models and categories.

This article was co-written using AI and was then heavily edited and optimized by our editorial team.

TTAC Staff

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1 comment

Fred on Jan 31, 2024
The problem I have with hybrids and EVs is that you pay a premium to save gas. So do the math, how much gasoline can I but for the extra money. Frankly I don't use that much gas being retired, so getting 31 in my little Honda isn't fantastic, it's good enough.

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Amy I owned this exact car from 16 until 19 (1990 to 1993) I miss this car immensely and am on the search to own it again, although it looks like my search may be in vane. It was affectionatly dubbed, " The Dragon Wagon," and hauled many a teenager around the city of Charlotte, NC. For me, it was dependable and trustworthy. I was able to do much of the maintenance myself until I was struck by lightning and a month later the battery exploded. My parents did have the entire electrical system redone and he was back to new. I hope to find one in the near future and make it my every day driver. I'm a dreamer.
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Theflyersfan Nissan could have the best auto lineup of any carmaker (they don't), but until they improve one major issue, the best cars out there won't matter. That is the dealership experience. Year after year in multiple customer service surveys from groups like JD Power and CR, Nissan frequency scrapes the bottom. Personally, I really like the never seen new Z, but after having several truly awful Nissan dealer experiences, my shadow will never darken a Nissan showroom. I'm painting with broad strokes here, but maybe it is so ingrained in their culture to try to take advantage of people who might not be savvy enough in the buying experience that they by default treat everyone like idiots and saps. All of this has to be frustrating to Nissan HQ as they are improving their lineup but their dealers drag them down.
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