Sep 26, 2026

12 Least Reliable EVs To Avoid Buying in 2026

If you've been eyeing that shiny new EV in the showroom, pump the brakes. Consumer Reports just released its least reliable EVs list for 2026, and the numbers are grim. Electric vehicles have roughly 80% more problems than gas cars, according to nearly 380,000 owner responses.

Want to know which EVs to steer clear of? Here are the 12 models that owners report having the most trouble with.

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Lucid Air

This luxury SUV is known for exceptional range and performance. However, owners have reported persistent coolant leaks, doors that won’t unlock and media controls that cease responding.

Rivian R1S

This is an electric SUV that has a J.D. Power quality and reliability score of 69 out of 100. Even with that, owners have complained about the front motor failing without warning, water leaking into the cabin and the vehicle taking as long as 30 seconds to realize its owner was standing nearby before unlocking.

Audi Q4 e-tron

Audi recalled the 2024 and 2025 Q4 e-tron over a battery issue that could cut power while driving. Some 2023 owners have complained of tires wearing out quicker than expected because of the weight and torque of the vehicle, and the MMI infotainment system has needed repeated over-the-air fixes.

Hyundai Ioniq 9

Like the rest of Hyundai’s lineup, the three-row EV is prone to an integrated charging control unit (ICCU) fault that can drain the battery completely and cause a loss of power while driving. Owners have also complained of unresponsive steering and braking modules and a glitchy infotainment system.

Kia EV6

The EV6 is best known for quick charging and powerful acceleration. Unfortunately, it shares Hyundai's ICCU problem, which can take out a 12-volt battery and cause the vehicle to not operate normally.

Honda Prologue

Developed in collaboration with General Motors, owners have reported high voltage warnings, clicking axles, brakes engaging without input on the highway and a battery that refuses to charge.

Hyundai Ioniq 5

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is one of the more well-known EVs on this list, boasting quick charging, a roomy interior and sleek design. Consumer Reports lowered its reliability due to the same ICCU defect reported across Hyundai’s EV lineup.

Audi Q6 e-tron

The Q6 e-tron hits 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and has a 330-mile range, which many buyers appreciate. What they don't appreciate is Apple CarPlay failing, lane assist and adaptive cruise features disappearing from the dash in the middle of a drive and charging failures. The 2025 model earned a J.D. Power score of 56 out of 100.

Kia EV9

The three-row Kia EV9 is still a relative newcomer, but Consumer Reports’ 2026 data gave it a predicted reliability score of only 24 out of 100. Reportedly, one owner waited almost a year for a replacement 12-volt battery.

Kia has also recalled some 2025 models for improperly welded engine shafts that could cut drive power and other models shipped without seat-mount bolts in the second and third rows.

Genesis GV60

The Genesis GV60 offers luxury-car features with an electric powertrain, but its reliability has been hit or miss. Owners have complained of widespread infotainment glitches, including problems with phone pairing and an ADAS system that triggers collision warnings and unexpectedly engages the brakes.

ICCU-related charging issues also showed up, resulting in recalls of 2023 and 2024 GV60 models.

Chevrolet Blazer EV

This is one of the least reliable electric vehicles. Consumer Reports gave the Blazer EV a score of 19 out of 100. Owners have reported problems with the batteries, climate control, charging door and infotainment screens.

Rivian R1T

Ranked the least reliable EV by Consumer Reports, the Rivian R1T is facing a series of recalls due to faulty headlights and bad turn signals. Some owners of 2025 models reported needing repeat repairs on the same HVAC components after service visits.

The Bottom Line

These 12 models aren't ready for prime time yet. If you're set on going electric, plenty of other options exist. Just be sure to check reliability ratings before committing. Luckily, the EV market is evolving fast, and next year's lineup will likely be better. For now, know what to avoid and you'll be in solid shape.

This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.

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Written by

Lydia Kibet

Edited by

Ashleigh Ray