©Tesla
Electric vehicles are appealing to consumers compared to petrol or diesel cars because of their low environmental impact. But how reliable are they?
There are some myths perpetuated in the auto industry that electric vehicles break down more easily than conventional cars, but this is largely untrue. Gas-powered vehicles are estimated to be able to last until around 200,000 miles, or about 12 years on average, whereas some electric vehicles (EVs) are said to last 300,000 miles.
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However, when shopping for a new car or purchasing an EV, this isn’t always the case with every model. GOBankingRates spoke to automotive experts to get the scoop on which EVs are likely to fail to outlive gas-powered cars and why that is.
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When you think of electric cars, Tesla is probably one of the first models to come to mind in the EV market. They’re instantly recognized on the street by their chic exterior. Once you get in, you’re treated to a futuristic technology package that makes you think we’re not far from flying cars.
However, Joyce Ann Gutierrez, an automotive expert at 4WheelOnline.com, warns that the Model X isn’t without its issues. She said, “One common concern is the battery draining quickly, which can be frustrating for owners who rely on their vehicles for daily use.”
The Model X has a 348-mile range, which is above average for electric vehicles, but if you’re traveling long distances daily, this might not be ideal. Especially since the battery is only covered for 150,000 miles or eight years under warranty.
That’s not where the issues with the Tesla Model X end.
“Additionally, some owners have experienced strange noises from the suspension system, causing unease and potentially indicating a need for maintenance or repairs,” said Gutierrez. “It is worth noting that in 2022, Tesla decided to cut the Model X’s price due to reliability concerns.”
Because of this, consumers might be visiting the mechanic more often, and Tesla’s are notoriously expensive to fix. This means that cost is added to an already expensive down payment, especially if you’ve opted for the most recent model.
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MSRP: $32,675 for a 2024
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Coming in at quite a bit cheaper than the Model X is Hyundai’s Kona. However, what you spend on maintenance might offset the money you save.