Electric vehicles (EVs) are often thought to have fewer issues and be more reliable. However, the results of JD Power’s 2024 U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS) suggest otherwise. EVs and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) experience three times as many problems compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. What issues are users most complaining about?

Electric vehicles face more problems compared to internal combustion vehicles

Internal combustion engine vehicles average 180 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100), while battery electric vehicles (BEVs) set a record with an average of 266 problems per 100 vehicles. JD Power’s Senior Director Frank Hanley stated, “Owners of BEVs and PHEVs, which are packed with the latest technology, encounter serious problems requiring dealer visits at a rate three times higher than owners of gas-powered vehicles.”

Both Tesla and traditional car manufacturers’ electric vehicles have the same issue rate, with 266 PP100. In the study conducted on vehicles sold in the U.S., brands like Ram (149 PP100), Chevrolet (160 PP100), and Hyundai (162 PP100) led in the mainstream category.

Ram 1500 ranked highest among large light-duty pickup trucks, while Chevrolet received the highest scores in four different categories. Hyundai led the midsize truck category with its Santa Cruz model. Among premium brands, Porsche (172 PP100) ranked first, followed by Lexus (174 PP100) and Genesis (184 PP100). The overall industry average is 195 PP100, with mainstream brands averaging 181 PP100 and premium brands having higher issue rates at 232 PP100.

JD Power’s study revealed that customers frequently complain about numerous alerts their vehicles provide. For example, the rear seat reminder alert can be misinterpreted as a seatbelt not fastened warning. Driver assistance systems are also criticized for “erroneous and annoying warnings.”

Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity issues are among the most common problems drivers face. The user-unfriendly nature of interior control systems also leads to more problems in electric vehicles. Interestingly, unpleasant interior odors, particularly from HVAC systems, are also noted as a common issue among many brands, especially EV owners.

If you are considering purchasing a new vehicle, keep this information in mind. While electric vehicles are technological marvels, it is a fact that internal combustion engine vehicles still have fewer issues. What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.