Electric vehicles are taking over UK roads—but not all EVs are built the same when it comes to long-term reliability. New data from Warranty Solutions Group (WSG) has crowned Hyundai as the most reliable EV manufacturer in the UK, beating out competitors like Toyota, Kia, and Tesla.
The study analysed 800 repair claims on used EVs between March 2024 and February 2025, revealing key insights into which electric models are delivering on their promises—and which are falling short.
Hyundai takes the crown for EV reliability
Hyundai led the pack with a claim rate of just 3.7%, one of the lowest in the study. Even more impressive, Hyundai vehicles had an average claim cost of only £309.46, proving they’re not just dependable—they’re also affordable to maintain.
So why is Hyundai outshining the competition?
- Conservative charging speeds help reduce battery stress and degradation.
- High-quality battery technology and materials extend component life.
- Rigorous real-world testing ensures resilience across various driving conditions.
Hyundai’s approach to EV design emphasises durability over flashy tech gimmicks, and it’s clearly paying off.
Toyota & Kia close behind
Toyota’s strengths include:Robust engineering backed by decades of reliability data.
Refined software systems that reduce common EV-related glitches.
Extensive cold- and wet-weather testing for UK suitability.
Kia, Hyundai’s corporate sibling, claimed the third spot with a 4% claim rate. Kia’s EVs, particularly the award-winning EV6, are built on the advanced E-GMP platform, featuring:
- Excellent thermal battery management.
- Consistent long-range performance.
- Strong build quality for tough UK road conditions.
At the Bottom: Land Rover struggles to keep pace
- Complex, failure-prone technology.
Software integration problems. - Ongoing reliability challenges from the internal combustion engine (ICE) era.
- Land Rover’s reputation may improve as their EV tech matures—but for now, they lag well behind the competition.
The cost of EV repairs is climbing
The report also highlights that used EV warranty claims now average £827.55—a 26.78% increase over petrol and diesel vehicles, which average £623.10. The higher cost comes down to the complexity and specialised nature of EV components.
Most common EV repair issues include:
- 12V battery replacements (£192.03)
- Shock absorber failures (£531.02)
- Air conditioning compressor faults (£1,193.79)
- Suspension arm problems (£1,058.23)
- Charger port replacements (£119.43)
- The most expensive EV issue? Full battery replacement—costing between £8,000 and £12,000.
“EV claims are higher primarily because repairs require specialised parts and expertise,”
Explains Steph Newbery, Group Director at WSG.
“This makes reliability a key concern—not just for drivers, but also for dealers and the wider adoption of electric vehicles.”
Why EV Reliability matters more than ever
As more motorists make the switch to electric, concerns over repair costs, battery life, and serviceability remain front of mind. A reliable EV can make all the difference—not just for individual peace of mind, but for growing public confidence in sustainable transport.
WSG’s findings make it clear: not all EVs are created equal. Brands like Hyundai, Toyota, and Kia are leading the way, while others still have ground to cover.
“Dealers that provide comprehensive EV warranties play a critical role in helping customers make the transition with confidence,”
Adds Newbery…
“Addressing reliability head-on will be essential for the EV market to continue its momentum.”
