Customer service issues at the point of sale and problems with electrical and software systems were the main reasons why new and used electric car buyers complained to the authorities in the first half of 2022.
The Motor Ombudsman, the Chartered Trading Standards Institute approved body that is tasked with resolving customer complaints, revealed the main EV consumer complaints in a new report.
The new findings revealed that 40% of complaints centred around customer service issues. Buyers reported new vehicle delivery delays and different leasing terms and monthly payments after taking delivery of their car.
Other issues included vehicles missing options that had been selected by the driver, cars being delivered without being checked and delayed deliveries.
The Motor Ombudsman also revealed complaints referring to specific parts of electric cars.
Some 16% of complaints related to electrical system and software issues, with electric car drivers highlighting problems with app failures and software downloads not working.
Issues with voice command systems, keyless entry and malfunctioning collision systems were also reported.
A total of 15% of complaints concerned chassis and braking issues. New EV owners highlighted brake pump failures, while used electric car owners saying their tyres were wearing prematurely.
9% of issues raised were linked to issues with charging, with some EV owners reporting that their new car would break down after charging or the charging cable would not release from its port.
Issues regarding the cabin and interior systems were responsible for 7% of complaints. New EV owners reported problems with the steering wheel functions. Some used EV owners said their heated seats did not work on delivery.
5% of consumers highlighted issues with the exterior condition of their car. Missing parking sensors and loose or leaking doors were some of the issues raised by both new and used EV owners respectively.
The smallest proportion of complaints related to the battery and range. Only 4% of complaints concerned EV battery issues, while another 4% of protests related to range.
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