Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are the least reliable vehicles, with 237 problems per 100 vehicles, surpassing EVs at 212, per J.D. Power’s 2025 U.S. Initial Quality Study. Gasoline and standard hybrids report fewer issues. PHEVs’ complexity, combining gas and electric systems, drives higher repair rates. Despite EV improvements, tech issues persist across all vehicle types.
PHEVs Lag in Reliability, EVs Show Improvement
The J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Initial Quality Study reveals plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) as the most problematic vehicle category, reporting 237 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100). Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) fare better at 212 PP100, while gasoline vehicles and standard hybrids score 184 and 196 PP100, respectively. The study, based on responses from 92,694 owners of 2025 model-year vehicles, highlights the mechanical complexity of PHEVs as a key factor. Combining a conventional gasoline engine with a larger battery and charging system, PHEVs face issues like shifting, hesitation, and charging difficulties, compounding their repair needs.
EVs, on the other hand, have shown notable improvement, largely driven by Tesla’s 62 PP100 reduction in reported issues. Frank Hanley, senior director of auto benchmarking at J.D. Power, noted that Tesla’s progress significantly boosts the overall BEV average. However, EVs still trail gasoline and hybrid vehicles in reliability, with tech-related issues like infotainment and connectivity posing challenges. Smartphone integration, including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, remains a persistent pain point across all vehicle types, with 50% of Apple users and 42% of Samsung users reporting connectivity issues.
PHEVs’ higher problem rates stem from their dual powertrains, which combine the maintenance demands of internal combustion engines with electric systems. Unlike standard hybrids, which rely on smaller batteries recharged by the engine and brakes, PHEVs require external charging to maximize their 20–40-mile electric range. Yet, J.D. Power notes a lack of evidence that owners consistently plug in, reducing efficiency and increasing fuel costs due to the added weight of batteries. Brands like Lexus, Hyundai, and Kia, which offer PHEV options, rank higher in quality, but specific models vary widely in performance.
The study also points to broader industry trends. Vehicle quality has dipped to its lowest since 2009, with 2022 model-year vehicles facing supply chain disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic. Software-related complaints, including ineffective over-the-air updates, account for 9% of issues but are growing as vehicles become more tech-reliant. For EVs, tire wear is a significant concern, with 39% of owners replacing tires within a year, compared to 20% for gasoline vehicle owners, due to heavier vehicle weight.
Consumer Reports echoes these findings, noting that while some PHEVs like the Toyota RAV4 Prime and Lexus NX are reliable, the category generally faces more issues than standard hybrids or gasoline vehicles. The Mazda CX-90 PHEV, for instance, ranks as the least reliable three-row SUV due to battery and electrical problems. Meanwhile, EV reliability is improving, but new technology introductions often lead to initial quality hiccups.
Market data reflects PHEVs’ struggles. J.D. Power’s E-Vision Intelligence Report shows PHEV sales languishing below 2% of the U.S. market, compared to 10.7% for standard hybrids and 9.4% for EVs. Higher transaction prices—$48,700 for a PHEV compact SUV versus $37,700 for a hybrid and $36,900 for an EV—further deter buyers. Despite their promise as a bridge to electrification, PHEVs’ complexity and cost may hinder widespread adoption.
Disclaimer: This article is based on reports from J.D. Power, Consumer Reports, and other automotive sources. Data reflects owner-reported issues and may not represent all vehicles or brands. For personalized advice, consult a certified automotive professional.