5 EVs That Might Give You Headaches, According to an Expert
Electric vehicles have surged in popularity, driven by rising gas prices and environmental concerns. But not every EV is a smart buy, and some models come with potential downsides. Mateo, a car mechanic with over a decade of experience, shared his insights on which electric cars to avoid. Here’s a look at five EVs he recommends steering clear of, along with the reasoning behind his caution.
Nissan Leaf (2011-2017)
The Nissan Leaf was one of the first EVs to hit the mainstream, but its early models have a significant drawback: battery degradation. “These early Leaf models don’t have an active thermal management system for the battery, which means they lose range much faster than other EVs,” Mateo explained. He added, “I’ve seen owners complain that their range drops by half within a few years.” Furthermore, replacing the Leaf’s battery can be a costly endeavor, making it a less appealing long-term investment.
Chevrolet Bolt EV (2017-2022)
Another popular EV, the Chevy Bolt EV, presents a different kind of concern. “The biggest problem I’ve seen with the Chevy Bolt EV is the battery recall,” stated Mateo. Serious issues with the high-voltage battery packs have led to these cars catching fire. In 2021, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued a recall for all Chevrolet Bolt electric vehicles due to the fire risk associated with their batteries.
Tesla Model S (Early Versions – 2012-2016)
While Tesla is a leader in the EV market, Mateo advises caution when considering early Model S versions. “The first-gen Model S has a lot of problems. For example, door handle failures and touchscreen issues,” he said. “But the worst part is the air suspension and drivetrain issues, which can be insanely expensive to fix.” For those set on a Tesla, Mateo recommends sticking with newer models, which generally offer improved build quality and reliability.
BMW i3 (2014-2021)
The BMW i3 was marketed as a futuristic and compact option, but the mechanic has strong reservations about its long-term value. “The i3 has a relatively small battery and limited range and the maintenance costs are high because it uses a lot of carbon fiber in its construction. Plus, BMW parts and labor aren’t cheap,” he explained. If you anticipate driving longer distances regularly, or don’t want to deal with potentially high repair bills, the i3 might not be the best choice.
Jaguar I-Pace (2019-Present)
The Jaguar I-Pace is positioned as a luxury EV with a focus on performance, reflected in its higher price point. Mateo cited reliability concerns as a key reason to hesitate. “This car has had software glitches, charging issues and battery problems,” he said. “It’s a nightmare when it comes to repairs because Jaguar dealerships don’t always have the right parts or technicians trained for EVs.” Additionally, the I-Pace’s resale value has decreased, a factor to consider for potential buyers. Ultimately, Mateo cautions, “The EV technology is improving, but not every car is worth the investment.” Before investing in an EV, he recommends thorough research of each model’s reliability, battery performance, and potential repair expenses.
