Though electric vehicles (EVs) have gained popularity, not all are sound investments. A seasoned mechanic, Mateo, with over a decade of experience, shared some EVs he would avoid. This insight provides a valuable perspective for potential EV buyers.
According to Mateo, a mechanic with over ten years of experience, some EVs have significant flaws that potential buyers should be aware of.
Nissan Leaf (2011-2017)
The Nissan Leaf was among the first mass-market EVs, but older models have a significant issue: rapid 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. “I’ve seen owners complain that their range drops by half within a few years.”
Battery replacements for the Leaf can cost thousands of dollars, making it less appealing as a long-term EV.
Chevrolet Bolt EV (2017-2022)
The Chevy Bolt EV is often considered an affordable option, but it presents a potential safety concern.
“The biggest problem I’ve seen with the Chevy Bolt EV is the battery recall,” Mateo stated. “There have been cases of these cars catching fire due to faulty battery packs.”
In 2021, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recalled all Chevrolet Bolt EVs due to the risk of the high-voltage battery pack catching fire.
Tesla Model S (Early Versions)
While Tesla is an EV leader, Mateo cautions against early Model S versions (2012-2016) due to maintenance issues.
“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.”
Mateo recommends sticking with newer Tesla models for better build quality and reliability.
BMW i3 (2014-2021)
The BMW i3 was marketed as a futuristic EV, but Mateo advises against it based on its limitations.
“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,” he explained. “Plus, BMW parts and labor aren’t cheap.”
Mateo suggests avoiding the i3 unless you primarily drive short distances and don’t mind potentially high repair costs.
Jaguar I-Pace (2019-Present)
The Jaguar I-Pace is a luxury EV that comes at a high price, but it’s not worth it according to Mateo.
“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.”
Moreover, the I-Pace’s resale value has declined, which could lead to financial loss.
“The EV technology is improving, but not every car is worth the investment,” Mateo concluded. He advises prospective buyers to thoroughly research each car’s reliability, battery performance, and repair costs before making a purchase.
