Reliable electric cars: a complete guide to faults, maintenance, and top models of 2025

In recent years, the debate on electric cars has focused on range, charging infrastructure, and tax incentives. However, there is one aspect that concerns anyone who has to choose their next vehicle: reliability. By "reliability," we mean the likelihood that a vehicle will break down, require unexpected repairs, or experience sudden stints of life spent waiting for a tow truck. Well, the latest data tells a surprisingly reassuring story for drivers.

In the context of electric vehicles (EVs), reliability is primarily measured by three parameters:

1. Failure frequency per 1,000 vehicles/year.

2. Criticality of the failure (whether it immobilizes the car or not).

3. Average repair cost and downtime.

In these pages, we will show you why electric cars are currently the most reliable on the road, how to correctly read the data, which components to check, and which models shine (or disappoint) in 2025.

Fundamentals of reliability in electric cars

Simplified mechanical architecture and lower failure frequency

The electric motor has a stator, rotor, and few bearings: no pistons, valves, belts, oil filters, or injectors. Fewer moving parts = less likelihood of breaking.

Reduced wear factors and low maintenance costs

With the absence of internal combustion, acids, soot, and extreme heat are eliminated: the oil does not degrade because… it doesn’t exist. The only scheduled replacements remain coolant, cabin filters, and brake pads (which last longer thanks to regenerative braking).

Over-the-air (OTA) updates and remote diagnostics

Software and sensors allow the car to send you predictive notifications. An OTA update can fix bugs that, in a thermal vehicle, would have required a service recall.

The 2024 ADAC report in detail

Study methodology (3.6 million interventions, 150 models)

The German Automobile Club analyzed 3.6 million roadside assistance interventions related to 2024, classifying over 150 models by age and fuel type. For the first time, the EV dataset is considered statistically robust.

EV failure frequency vs ICE (4.2 vs 10.2 per 1,000)

The key data: 4.2 failures for 1,000 EVs compared to 10.2 for gasoline/diesel cars. In other words, an electric vehicle breaks down two and a half times less.

Analysis by age group of electric vehicles (2-4 years: 3.8 vs 9.4)

The first four years tell the truth about a project. Here the gap remains wide: 3.8 failures (EV) compared to 9.4 (ICE).

Seasonal failure trends and winter temperatures (peak January 9, 2024)

January is a black mark month: on January 9, 2024, ADAC handled 19,700 calls. Cold, 12V battery discharge, and flat tires contribute to the statistics.

Significance of the increase in EV interventions (+46%) in the context of battery fleet growth

Interventions on EVs have risen by 46%, but the vehicle fleet has nearly doubled (+97%). Translated: average reliability has improved.

Critical points and how to prevent them

12V service battery: causes of breakdowns and preventive maintenance

50% of inactive EVs come from this small lead battery. Keep it charged (a dedicated charging cycle every 2-3 weeks if the car remains stationary) and replace it in the fourth year.

Tires and vehicle weight: pressure and rotation

An EV weighs 200-300 kg more. Check the pressure every month and rotate the tires every 10,000 km to even out wear.

EV software, sensors, and OTA reset: predictive diagnostics

If the touchscreen freezes or the radar sensor stops working, often a simple restart or OTA update suffices to resolve the issue.

Charging in extreme conditions: protecting the traction battery

At high or low temperatures, the car reduces charging power to protect itself. Pre-conditioning and certified fast chargers help.

2025 ranking of the most reliable electric models

City car and compact segment: most reliable electric models

• Renault Zoe – veteran, robust battery pack, and indestructible motor.

• Hyundai Kona Electric – 8 year/160,000 km warranty, few reports of failures.

Crossover/SUV segment: reliability ranking 2025

• Opel Crossland Electric – simple components and little superfluous electronics.

• Seat Arona e-Hybrid – solid platform, mature software.

Premium models and corporate fleets: EV reliability comparison

• BMW Series 1/3 Electric – integrated predictive maintenance and high-efficiency synchronous motors.

• Audi A1/A3 e-tron – modular battery pack with advanced thermal management.

Comparative table of top models and recorded failures

(average values ADAC 2024, failures/1,000 vehicles)

• BMW Series 3 EV – 2.1

• Hyundai Kona Electric – 2.5

• Renault Zoe – 2.9

• Opel Crossland Electric – 3.0

Assessing reliability before purchase

Checklist for buying a new electric car

1. Verify the extent of the battery warranty (at least 8 years).

2. Request reports on range tests and SOC certification.

3. Check the official service network.

Checklist for buying a used electric car: battery pack warranty

1. Demand an official Battery Health Report.

2. Inspect tires for uneven wear.

3. Ensure that software updates are in order.

Reading independent reports (ADAC, TÜV, JD Power) on failures

A quick look at 3 and 5-year reliability scores saves you surprises.

Battery and powertrain warranty: what it covers and for how long

Besides the remaining capacity (usually 70% at the end of warranty), some manufacturers include traction, inverter, and onboard charger.

EV owner community and real feedback

Forums and social groups reveal recurring defects before they make it into the statistics.

Preventive maintenance: best practices

A maintenance of your electric car focused on prolonging the vehicle's life and minimizing downtime risks. Here are essential checks to perform regularly:

• 12V service battery: use a smart charger if the car remains stationary for more than two weeks and replace it every 3-4 years.

• Tires: check the pressure every month, rotate them every 10,000 km, and choose low rolling resistance tires certified for EVs.

• Software and firmware: schedule OTA updates at night to avoid disruptions and ensure you are always traveling with secure versions.

• Extreme temperatures: in winter, pre-heat the cabin and battery while the car is charging; in summer, park in the shade or activate "Eco AC" mode.

Climate impact and winter driving

Analysis of winter failure peaks in the ADAC report

Cold slows down battery chemistry and thickens the electrolytes of the 12V; this is why January remains the worst month.

Pre-conditioning and thermal management in cold weather

Set the departure via app at least 20 minutes before you head out: battery at ideal temperature and windows defrosted.

Winter tires for electric cars

Choose tires with a load index suitable for the extra weight: you will ensure immediate and stable traction.

Storage at low temperatures and battery maintenance

If you're away for weeks, leave the car at 50-60% charge and plugged into a slow charger.

Future technological innovations and EV reliability

Upcoming solutions will make electric cars increasingly durable, safe, and economical to manage. Here are the innovations to watch out for:

• Solid-state batteries: higher energy density, drastically reduced thermal risk, and lifecycles approaching (or exceeding) one million kilometers.

• AI-based predictive diagnostics: machine learning algorithms interpret onboard data, anticipate anomalies, and alert the driver well before they turn into costly failures.

• Lightweight materials and next-generation motors: aluminum frames and advanced composites, coupled with more compact and efficient powertrains, will reduce weight and therefore tire and brake wear.

According to ADAC findings, the electric car is already among the most reliable vehicles today, in addition to reducing emissions. With a few periodic checks—correct tire pressure, efficient 12V service battery, and continuously updated software—you can drive safely and without complications, confirming it as a solid choice for the present and future.