10 most reliable electric cars under $30,000

Summary

Used electric vehicles depreciate rapidly, making nearly-new, reliable options under $30,000 accessible.
Reliable used EVs are available with only one recall and a low average used price of $13,859.
There are a wide variety of used EVs, from long-range to performance models.

The idea of buying an electric vehicle is alluring. EVs are packed with cool technology, and the lack of an internal combustion engine means there is less maintenance required, keeping ownership costs low in comparison to gas vehicles. However, the initial purchase can be expensive. Thankfully, for used car buyers, electric vehicles depreciate rapidly, so it’s easy to find a nearly-new and reliable electric car under $30,000.

Many buyers worry about battery degradation when buying a used electric vehicle, but new EVs face faulty batteries, too. For the most part, batteries can last years before needing replacement, and lightly-used ones might still have warranty cover for peace of mind. Plus, the charging network has improved over the last few years, meaning unreliable chargers are less of a problem.

In compiling this article, we have cross-referenced information on vehicle reliability from J.D. Power, maintenance from Edmunds, RepairPal and CarEdge, and pricing from Kelley Blue Book, to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible. Please note that we have ranked the following models based on most reliable to least reliable.

The best electric cars for US roads

These are the best EVs you can buy right now.

10 2023 Polestar 2

Reliability Score: 64/100

Polestar

The first entry on our list is the 2023 Polestar 2. While a score of 64 doesn’t seem reliable, this is a massive improvement on the previous model year, which was rated at 58. Polestar was the performance arm of Volvo before branching out to be an independent electric vehicle producer with the Polestar 1. It flopped, but the 2 was in-line with other EVs of the time, and the 2023 facelift added more range and features.

Reliability

Part of the refresh included a new Smartzone packed with advanced safety technology, helping the Polestar 2 gain a five-star safety rating from NHTSA. Plus, only two recalls have been issued. One related to incorrect installation of the front ball joint, and the rearview camera not displaying.

Safety Rating: 5/5
Total Recalls: 2
Average Used Price: $25,262

9 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E

Reliability Score: 65/100

Ford

Whether you agree with an electric SUV wearing a Mustang badge or not, the Mach-E is a performance car with better efficiency. Though it is a high-sided vehicle with five doors, the main purpose of this car was to make electric cars cool. While it looks great, it’s nothing like a Mustang — its skinny tires and average suspension make it a bit bland.

Reliability

Despite never being tested by NHTSA, the Mach-E was a Top Safety Pick in 2021 by IIHS. There are also eight recalls for various reasons that could lead to serious accidents or fires. It is still rated more reliable than the Polestar.

Safety Rating: N/A
Total Recalls: 8
Average Used Price: $24,366

8 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5

Reliability Score: 70/100

Front quarter view of the Hyndai Ioniq 5

Hyundai

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is perfect for tech-savvy families. Technically, it is an SUV. The spacious cabin is SUV-size, but it drives like a hatchback. The Ioniq 5 follows the unique design language the Korean automaker is known for. The square headlights are both retro and futuristic at the same time, while the clutter-free interior provides a calm driving experience. Two large digital displays sit atop the dashboard to bring important information and functions to the forefront for ease of use.

Reliability

Similar to other vehicles from Hyundai and Kia, the Ioniq 5 has an excellent reliability rating. So far, there have been three recalls concerning loss of drive power from a damaged charging unit, but once that’s fixed, it should be worry-free ownership. You can rest assured with a five-star safety rating.

Safety Rating: 5/5
Total Recalls: 3
Average Used Price: $24,993

5 electric car myths you’ve probably heard, debunked

We’re debunking the five most commonly heard myths about electric vehicles.

7 2022 Tesla Model Y

Reliability Score: 73/100

Tesla

We couldn’t write a list of electric vehicles without a Tesla. Since the Tesla Model Y lost $39,387 in three years, it has become a used car bargain at just $27,406. For this, you’ll get a premium SUV insulated with acoustic glass for a quiet ride, and Tesla Autopilot self-driving for effortless long-distance trips. When it’s time to recharge, the Model Y can access the supercharger network to charge up to 80% in as little as 15 minutes.

Reliability

To address the elephant in the room, the Model Y already has 18 outstanding recalls, ranging from an inconsistent tire pressure monitor light, to software updates to make self-driving safer. However, it still has a five-star safety rating, and a strong reliability score. These recalls might be a nuisance, but they don’t necessarily make the Model Y less reliable.

Safety Rating: 5/5
Total Recalls: 18
Average Used Price: $27,406

6 2023 Nissan Ariya

Reliability Score: 74/100

Nissan

Another electric SUV with a roomy cabin and cool technology is the 2023 Nissan Ariya. It’s well-equipped with useful features, like a 360-degree camera to help with parking and ProPilot advanced driver assistance system. Focusing on efficiency, the Ariya has a smooth exterior design brought to life by luxurious colors, like Akatsuki Copper. The interior is similar to the Hyundai Ioniq 5, with a minimalist touch and two digital displays controlling most functions, but it has less cargo space than its competitors.

Reliability

A selling point of the Ariya is its safety and reliability. Scoring more than the Model Y, and with significantly fewer recalls, the Japanese EV hit the ground running. Three of the recalls relate to loss of drive power, with the other warning that the steering wheel might detach from the steering column. Obviously, those are both serious, so ensure these have been resolved before purchasing.

Safety Rating: 5/5
Total Recalls: 4
Average Used Price: $24,375

5 2023 Nissan Leaf

Reliability Score: 76/100

Nissan

Perhaps the Ariya’s reliability is tempting, but you don’t need an SUV. Well, the Nissan Leaf is even better. The Leaf has been around a while now, providing an affordable entry barrier to electrified driving. A Nissan Leaf S with great standard features, like an HVAC timer and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, can be bought for $15,133. A few extra bucks upgrades to the SV grade, adding leather seats, LED lights, and a premium sound system.

Reliability

Building on the Leaf’s value is a five-star safety rating and only three recalls. One is regarding misinformation in the owner’s manual, and the others are about brake line corrosion and unintended acceleration. Overall, it’s a brilliant electric car for drivers on a budget.

Safety Rating: 5/5
Total Recalls: 3
Average Used Price: $15,133

Do you prefer CarPlay, Android Auto, or bespoke in-car infotainment

There was a time when I loved Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the issues I have encountered with my Ioniq 5’s USB port, leading to both platforms constantly disconnecting (I pretty much don’t use either anymore), have led me to change my opinion. I’ve talked to both Hyundai and Apple, and both companies blame the issue on each other. I’ve also gotten the USB and transmitter unit replaced in my car, but nothing solves the issue.While I appreciate instantly having access to my iPhone or Android device in my car simply by plugging in my phone (my vehicle doesn’t have wireless CarPlay/Android Auto) and the advantages both operating systems provide, problems I’ve encountered have me thinking that Tesla-like car manufacturer maker-made infotainment systems may be the more reliable way forward. After all, I really only take calls, navigate with Google Maps/Waze, and listen to music on Spotify in my car — I don’t really need many other apps.With this in mind, do you prefer CarPlay or

4 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV

Reliability Score: 77/100

Chevrolet

Similar to the Leaf, the Nissan Bolt is a small electric vehicle ideal for buzzing around the city. Again, it’s a low-cost EV, so it isn’t exciting, but the whole idea behind the Bolt was to bring affordable options to the market. The ride can be uncomfortable on bigger wheels, but adaptive cruise control, rain-sensing wipers and auto-dimming headlights make driving a breeze. Plus, it can travel up to 259 miles on a single charge, and used models come in around $18,845.

Reliability

Astoundingly, the Bolt EV has never been recalled. We probably don’t need to say much else about its reliability, but highlighting its top safety rating and high score seems right.

Safety Rating: 5/5
Total Recalls: 0
Average Used Price: $18,845

3 2022 Kia EV6

Reliability Score: 77/100

Kia

Kia’s EV6 is a mighty electric SUV that appeals to many due to its sharp exterior styling. While most EVs are flat in favor of efficiency, the EV6 has big alloys, two spoilers, and a pronounced rear light bar spanning from wheel to wheel. Available with long-range or GT trims, there’s an EV6 to suit every type of driver.

the EV6 is a fantastic all-round EV for the money.

Reliability

There is no official safety rating for the EV6 because rollover resistance hasn’t been tested yet. However, it received five starts in all other tests so far. What’s more, only three recalls have been issued, suffering the same damaged charging unit power loss as the Hyundai Ioniq 5. Nonetheless, the EV6 is a fantastic all-round EV for the money.

Safety Rating: N/A
Total Recalls: 3
Average Used Price: $21,612

Kia EVs are joining the ranks supporting Tesla Superchargers

You’ll probably need to spring for an NACS adapter.

2 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV

Reliability Score: 79/100

Chevrolet

In essence, the Bolt EUV is an inflated version of the Bolt hatchback. Sacrificing a bit of the EVs battery range allows more room for passengers and cargo, and it is available with Super Cruise hands-free driving. The Bolt EUV looks as good, if not better, than more expensive electric SUVs. Standard features include keyless entry and start, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android auto, and LED lights.

Reliability

Sharing DNA with the Bolt hatchback means the EUV is just as competent. There are no recalls issued for it, and it also has a five-star safety rating. Additionally, it seems to depreciate slower than other EVs, so it seems like a solid investment.

Safety Rating: 5/5
Total Recalls: 0
Average Used Price: $20,822

1 2019 Hyundai Ioniq Electric

Reliability Score: 82/100

Topping our list as the most reliable electric vehicle is the 2019 Hyundai Ioniq. The Ioniq electric was discontinued in 2021 to update the range with Ioniq 5 and 6, but it’s still worth buying. Its subtle styling blends in with internal combustion cars, with a conservative interior made of eco-friendly materials. It shows no signs of age, using modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Hyundai Ioniq Electric Performance Specifications

Powertrain	Single electric motor
Transmission	Single-speed automatic
Horsepower	118 hp
Torque	281 lb-ft
Driveline	Front-wheel drive

Reliability

Throughout its life, the 2019 Ioniq electric was only recalled once for unintended acceleration after releasing the pedal. This recall was issued in 2021, so most should be fixed by now, but you should always check. Otherwise, a score of 82/100 suggests it doesn’t require much maintenance or repairs.