Warranty Solutions Group (WSG) has ranked the Nissan Leaf as the most reliable used electric vehicle (EV), based on warranty claim data from 2025.
The Leaf had a claim rate of 1.52%, with an average repair cost of £818.96.
Next came the Audi E-Tron, with a claim rate of 3.23% and an average claim cost of £570.18.
It was followed by the Vauxhall Corsa Electric (4.76%), Ford Mustang Mach-E (5.26%) and Tesla Model 3 (6%).
The Volkswagen ID.4 had the lowest average claim cost of any EV, at £180.77.
Across all EV models, the most common claims were related to suspension components, which WSG said was due to the heavier weight of EVs.
Anti roll bar links were the most common parts to fail, accounting for 9.52% of all EV warranty claims in 2025, with an average claim cost of £276.12.
Other common faults included lower arms (5.67% of all claims) and air conditioning compressors (4.76% of all claims).
The least reliable used EV models ranked by WSG were the Tesla Model S, with a claim rate of 38.46%, the Mercedes-Benz EQB (33.33%) and the Tesla Model X (23.53%).
Mercedes-Benz and Tesla were approached for comment.
Martin Binnee, operations director at WSG, said: “EVs are often positioned as cheaper to maintain because they have fewer moving parts, but our claims data shows the reality is more complex.
“While some EVs are proving extremely reliable, when faults do occur the cost of repair can be significant – particularly for premium models and vehicles with advanced electrical and thermal systems.
“For consumers, this means looking beyond fuel savings and factoring repair severity into the total cost of ownership.
“For dealers and warranty providers, it reinforces why EV-specific warranty cover is no longer optional, but essential to protect customers and maintain confidence as electric adoption continues to grow.
“Ultimately, EV ownership brings a combination of traditional wear-and-tear repairs alongside high-value electrical faults.
“Setting realistic expectations around maintenance and repair costs will be key to supporting long-term confidence in the EV market.
“Clear differences between makes and models show that EVs cannot be viewed as a single category, and that informed conversations around maintenance, protection and long-term costs have become more crucial than ever.
“At the same time, the data reinforces the importance of looking beyond headline running cost savings when assessing EV ownership.
“While many EVs are proving dependable, the cost of repairs can be significant when faults do occur, particularly on vehicles with advanced systems or premium positioning.
“Understanding these risks, setting realistic expectations and ensuring the right level of protection is in place will play a key role in supporting sustainable, long-term adoption.”
