Why Tesla Still Tries to Keep Up With Reliability – And Everyone Else Is Right Behind
Lightning fast, almost silent, and sure to drop a few hearts into your garage, electric vehicles (EVs) from Tesla and its rivals have once again earned a spot among the least reliable in the United States, according to Consumer Reports’ newest annual survey. While the market’s heat‑table shows them as the hottest sellers, the same isn’t happening when your car actually needs a hand.
What the Numbers Say
- Over 36% of people planning their next vehicle purchase are eyeing hybrids – a sign that “green” routes are becoming as appealing as the speed dream.
- Tesla, the world’s richest automaker by market cap, climbed four places and landed at 19th out of 24 brands. Issues still bite in body hardware, steering and suspension, paint and trim, and the climate control system.
- Japanese and Korean brands, with seven of the top ten best scores, wrap up the continental feast. Lexus tops the list overall.
- From the Detroit conglomerate, only Lincoln keeps a seat in the top ten, right on the line in 10th place.
What’s actually going wrong?
Telegraphing through the data, Tesla struggles with:
- Body hardware glitches (think latch knock-offs and random door detachments)
- Steering/suspension quirks that make every turn feel like a mini jump‑squat
- Paint and trim that could use a second makeover
- Climate system hiccups – won’t it feel like a chilly hug in the summer?
Why the hype still burns
Despite the reliability jitters, Tesla’s electric dream makers still win the hottest demand title. And with the company calling out logistical hurdles after announcing it may miss last-year delivery targets, it’s clear the world’s fastest car company isn’t in the lead when it comes to getting their cars out the door.
If you’re tracking reliability, this scorecard remains a key barometer for consumers and executives alike. So, whether you’re looking at the shiny allure of an EV or the pragmatic hybrid, your next journey is likely to be smoother with a little extra caution (and a laugh or two) along the way.
