Electric vehicles (EVs) have long been praised for their lower maintenance costs and overall cheaper operation compared to gas vehicles. However, the 2024 Initial Quality Study conducted by J.D. Power challenges this notion. The study reveals that EV owners report significantly more problems than their gas-owning counterparts, indicating that EVs may not be as hassle-free as they are believed to be.
J.D. Power rates vehicles based on the number of problems per 100 units (PP100). In this year’s study, gas and diesel vehicles had an average of 180 PP100, while EVs and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) scored higher at 266 PP100. Even Tesla, the prominent EV manufacturer, did not fare well in the study, as its customers reported issues with turn signals and wiper controls.
One of the reasons for the higher reported problems among EV owners is the presence of advanced tech features in these vehicles. EVs often come equipped with more advanced in-vehicle technology compared to their gas counterparts. As a result, EV owners experienced 30 percent more problems related to controls and infotainment systems. This indicates that the increased complexity of technology in EVs contributes to a more challenging ownership experience.
Moreover, both gas and electric vehicle owners faced issues with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). False warnings from ADAS can irritate drivers and cause unnecessary stress. Another feature, rear-seat reminders, designed to alert drivers to check for pets, kids, or other items in the back seat, added 1.7 PP100 to vehicle scores across the survey. Some owners even misunderstood the purpose of these reminders, mistaking them for seatbelt alerts.
The study also highlighted the popularity of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, two widely used features in new vehicles. However, these features were among the top 10 problems reported by new vehicle owners. Many buyers encountered difficulties connecting their phones or maintaining a stable connection. Given that over half of Apple users and 42 percent of Samsung users rely on these technologies, this connectivity issue is a significant concern.
While the study shows that EVs are not exempt from issues, it is crucial to note that these challenges are not necessarily the fault of the electric powertrain itself. Automakers often equip EVs with cutting-edge technology and prioritize futuristic design and ergonomics. While these features enhance the appeal of EVs, they also complicate the ownership experience.
The demand for EVs continues to rise, and automakers are investing heavily in developing more advanced and appealing electric models. However, J.D. Power’s study serves as a reminder for automakers to balance innovation with reliability. It suggests that automakers may need to moderate the inclusion of complex tech features and prioritize user-friendly designs to improve the overall ownership experience for EV owners. By doing so, automakers can ensure that EVs live up to their promise of being a practical and convenient alternative to gas vehicles.