Finding a reliable vehicle can be a challenging task, particularly when you are on a budget and want to be eco-friendly. Electric vehicles (EVs) are known to be expensive and since they have not been around for very long, their reliability in the long run is still uncertain. However, you can still find many options when looking for a second-hand car. By doing so, you could grab a bargain while still getting a dependable vehicle that can be relied on in all situations.
When buying a used car, always check if the vehicle has been involved in a crash before. This can be indicated by the category of the car being Category B, for example. A car that has been in an accident is potentially less safe and may result in higher insurance premiums.
Recalls are a common occurrence for every vehicle manufacturer. I have taken note of the recalls of the vehicles, but it is important to understand that the manufacturers take these issues seriously. They would never allow the vehicles to be reused or resold if they pose a significant risk to safety. So, with that out of the way, here are your best bets for getting a reliable used electric car in 2024.
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In compiling this article, we have cross-referenced information for vehicle reliability, maintenance, and pricing from sources like J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, RepairPal, CarEdge, and Consumer Reports to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible. Please note that we have ranked the following models based on most reliable to least reliable.
10 2023 Toyota bZ4X
Reliability Score: 73/100
Toyota is introducing their electric SUV, the bZ4X, to the market. It can be a great choice for those who prefer practicality as Toyota has a proven track record of reliability. With a front-wheel drive setup and an electric range of up to 318 miles, this car seems to be a good all-around option. It also has a horsepower of 204, which means it won’t be a slow vehicle.
Reliability
In terms of safety, the Toyota bZ4X meets all NHTSA standards and has an excellent overall safety rating. However, there is one recall to note. There have been issues with the wheels coming off the bZ4X, which could be catastrophic if it happened. But Toyota has come up with a solution to fix this recurring problem by changing the lug nuts!
- Average Price Paid: $45,614 ($40,920 – $50,093)
- Problems Owners Report: May take longer to charge than rivals.
- Total Recalls: 1
9 2023 Genesis GV60
Reliability Score: 74/100
The Genesis GV60 is a luxury performance SUV that boasts impressive horsepower. The advanced trim offers 314 horsepower while the performance package comes with a massive 483 horsepower. Although the advanced trim has less horsepower, users may benefit from the longer mileage of 248 miles. The GV60 comes with all the bells and whistles in terms of the interior, including a crystal ball-like gear selector when in the park.
Reliability
When it comes to reliability, the GV60 has had some recalls, including issues with power loss caused by the charging unit and driveshaft. Additionally, there have been problems with the seatbelts, which have led to recalls in some circumstances. Genesis has developed reliable vehicles, possibly due to being under Hyundai’s wing despite being a new company.
- Average Pricing: $56,223 ($51,326 – $61,294)
- Problems Owners Report: Could have better range.
- Total Recalls: 5
8 2023 Cadillac Lyriq
Reliability Score: 74/100
The 2023 Cadillac Lyriq is a contender for an exceptional used SUV, with an average price of around $56,223. It comes in a few different trims, with the top-of-the-range version – the dual motor AWD – boasting 500 horsepower and massive towing capabilities of up to 3500 pounds. The AWD version can drive around 220 miles on a full charge, while the lower-spec RWD single-motor version can manage 270 miles. To provide a quiet and refined driving experience, the interior is equipped with noise cancelation technology to reduce road noise.
Reliability
When it comes to reliability, the Lyriq complies with NHTSA requirements for safety technology, but it has had a few recalls to date. Some parts – such as the seat-belt bracket and high-voltage battery connections – were improperly welded. Other users experienced a blank instrument panel and missing pedestrian warning sounds.
- Average Price Paid: $56,223. ($51,326 – $61,294)
- Problems Owners Report: Not as fast as rivals, hard suspension.
- Total Recalls: 5
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7 2023 Subaru Solterra
Reliability Score: 75/100
Subaru is entering a new market with its first electric vehicle, the Solterra. This luxury small-sized SUV is equipped with off-road capabilities, making it unique in its class. The Solterra comes with advanced features such as grip control and adjustable regenerative braking force, which gives users greater control over their driving experience. However, the SUV’s range is slightly lower than other comparable models, offering up to 228 miles.
Reliability
When it comes to reliability, Subaru has a long-standing reputation for producing dependable vehicles. With its rich history in rally sport, Subaru knows how to make a reliable off-road machine. Despite having had some recalls, similar to Toyota (which owns Subaru), the company has addressed the issue of wheels detaching from the vehicle.
- Average Price Paid: $45,739 ($41,751 – $49,819)
- Problems Owners Have Reported: Could have more cargo space, charging could be faster.
- Total Recalls: 2
6 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5
Reliability Score: 77/100
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is an innovative and tech-savvy SUV ideal for those who value both style and space. With multiple trims to choose from, the standard version comes with a 58 kWh battery and can provide up to 220 miles of range. For those looking for a higher specification, a 77.4 kWh battery is also available, providing up to 256 miles of range. The vehicle’s interior is made of eco-friendly materials, and Hyundai has designed a flat floor to maximize interior space.
Reliability
Reliability-wise, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a good option, with an overall safety rating of 4 stars from NHTSA. However, two recalls have been issued for the vehicle, one related to a loss of power from a damaged charging unit, and the other concerning a potential software issue that could cause the vehicle to roll away.
- Average Price Paid: $28,375 ($27,302 – $29,876)
- Problems Owners Have Reported: Front trunk is very small, shifter takes some getting used to.
- Total Recalls: 2
5 2023 Nissan Ariya
Reliability Score: 79/100
Nissan is set to release its newest electric vehicle, the Nissan Ariya, in January 2022. The Venture+ trim boasts an impressive range of 304 miles and 238 horsepower. For those looking for a more sporty style, the Platinum+ 4-4orce AWD is the top-of-the-range trim, with a range of up to 93 MPGe and an impressive 389 horsepower.
Reliability
Nissan is a trusted Japanese car manufacturer with a wide range of vehicles to choose from. However, the Ariya has experienced a couple of recalls due to an inverter software error resulting in the loss of drive power and a steering wheel that could detach from the steering column, leaving the driver helpless. Nevertheless, Nissan has addressed these issues with affected vehicles.
- Average Price Paid: $51,168 ($46,967 – $55,261)
- Problems Owners Have Reported: Lacks excitement.
- Total Recalls: 2
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4 2023 BMW iX
Reliability Score: 81/100
If you have a lot of money to spend, you might want to consider the BMW iX for its luxury and sporty features. The iX is equipped with a dual motor that can produce 515 horsepower in the xDrive50 and up to 610 horsepower in the M60 version. With a full charge, the M60 package can get you around 300 miles. According to the EPA, the most efficient iX model is the one that comes with the standard 20-inch wheels, which have ratings of 86 MPGe city and 87 MPGe highway.
Reliability
It is important to be aware that BMW has issued significant recalls for this particular vehicle due to a risk of fire in some cases. If your car is affected, it is advisable to contact the manufacturer without delay to resolve the issue. However, aside from this concern, the BMW range is generally considered to be reliable and trustworthy. Any electrical issues should have been rectified, leaving you with a dependable, fast, and sporty car.
- Average Price Paid: $104,609 ($95,382 – $114,139) for the M60.
- Problems Owners Have Reported: Expensive.
- Total Recalls: 2
3 2019 Jaguar I-Pace
Reliability Score: 81/100
The Jaguar I-Pace is the brand’s first-ever fully electric vehicle, featuring a widened grille and a bulky appearance. Equipped with dual motors, it has a combined power output of 394 horsepower and 512 pound-feet of torque. Its 90 kWh battery can provide a range of up to 234 miles and supports fast charging capabilities. Considering its average price of $27,900, it can be a great, budget-friendly option for those looking for a second-hand vehicle.
Reliability
However, the I-Pace has had some reliability concerns, which should have been addressed by the manufacturer. These include the high-voltage battery overheating and a loose connection between the battery and busbars.
- Average Price: $27,900. ($26,137 – $29,831)
- Problems Owners Have Reported: Regenerative brakes don’t do much.
- Total Recalls: 6
2 2022 Kia EV6
Reliability Score: 81/100
The Kia EV6 is the brand’s first-ever electric vehicle, which is a small compact SUV. It comes in various trims, including rear-wheel and all-wheel drive options for higher-end specifications. The Wind AWD trim, in particular, boasts a 320 hp dual motor to help drivers navigate through any weather conditions while keeping a sporty and immersive feel.
Reliability
When it comes to reliability, the Kia EV6 is an affordable small SUV that offers a thrilling driving experience in any weather. However, there have been some issues with recalls due to a loss of power drive resulting from a damaged power unit, as well as vehicle rollaway caused by a software error.
- Average Price Paid: $36,175. ($33,046 – $39,351)
- Problems Owners Have Reported: Awkward infotainment controls.
- Total Recalls: 2
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1 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV
Reliability Score: 81/100
Chevrolet has made significant advances with its electric vehicle (EV) offerings, including its popular Bolt. The Bolt also comes in an EUV version, which is a compact SUV, as opposed to the smaller hatchback version of the Chevrolet Bolt EV. Although the Bolt EUV is not known for its sporty prowess, it still manages to impress with its 200 horsepower and front-wheel drive, making it a great option for zipping around town.
Reliability
In terms of reliability, the Bolt EUV appears to be a practical, affordable, but not so dependable option for those in search of a trustworthy vehicle. There has been a recall concerning the battery, so go ahead at your own discretion. Not to mention, the model is not up for sale anymore (although a new model is confirmed).
- Average Price Paid: $29,571. ($27,395 – $30,488)
- Problems Owners Have Reported: Not much cargo space, slow DC charging speed.
- Total Recalls: 1
