You want an EV that saves you money, time, and headaches — not one that drains value or leaves you stuck at the charger. This article shows which six electric vehicles experts advise avoiding in 2026 so you can make smarter buying choices.
Skip costly surprises by learning which models have recurring reliability, resale, or charging drawbacks and why those problems matter for your daily life and long-term ownership. Keep reading to see which names keep coming up and what better alternatives to consider.
Nissan Leaf
You might find the 2026 Leaf tempting for its price, but experts warn it still trails rivals on performance and tech.
Charging compatibility improved with NACS, yet range and battery tech lag compared with newer compact EVs.
Expect faster depreciation and fewer advanced driver assists than similarly priced competitors, which can affect resale and long-term ownership costs.
Read a detailed critique of why some analysts advise caution at this link: Nissan Leaf review and warnings (https://www.gobankingrates.com/saving-money/car/electric-vehicles-to-avoid-buying-in-2026/).
Fiat 500 Electric
If you want a tiny, stylish city EV, the Fiat 500 Electric looks tempting but may not fit every buyer’s needs. Early sales struggles and halted production raised questions about demand and long-term support; see reporting on the model’s production pause and updates from Stellantis (https://www.motortrend.com/news/2024-fiat-500e-suspends-production-stellantis).
You’ll enjoy compact dimensions and Italian styling, yet limited range and higher-than-expected pricing make it hard to justify against rivals. Check reliability data and ownership costs before committing.
BMW i3
If you’re drawn to the BMW i3 for its badge and tech, check real-world range and charging limits first. Early impressions praise design, but practical range and fast-charging availability can leave you stranded on longer trips.
Ownership costs and options may not match rivals, so compare warranties and running costs carefully. Read expert takes like the overview of the 2026 i3 to see how it stacks up against newer EVs.
Ford Mustang Mach-E (early models)
If you buy an early Mustang Mach-E, you might run into software bugs and uneven build quality that can be annoying.
Some owners report trim fitment and infotainment glitches that require dealer visits.
Range estimates on older examples sometimes fall short of expectations in real-world driving.
If you prioritize reliability and a trouble-free ownership experience, consider newer revisions or alternatives like the refreshed 2026 Mach-E review from MotorTrend.
Volkswagen ID.3
You may like the ID.3’s hatchback practicality, but earlier models showed reliability problems like 12V failures and software bugs that still worry used buyers. Check service records and whether the car received the 2023 facelift updates before you commit.
Charging and real-world range are solid for daily driving, yet if you need ultra-fast charging or premium interior trim you might find better alternatives elsewhere. Read a detailed 2026 review of the ID.3 for range and usability at What Car? (https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/id3/hatchback/review/n21832).
Tesla Model X (older versions)
If you’re shopping used, watch early Model X years for recurring reliability headaches like suspension and electronics faults. Repairs and parts can get expensive, and downtime adds up fast.
Look for 2020–2022 examples if you want fewer surprises and better warranty coverage, but inspect service history closely. Read about specific problem years and common issues before you buy: Yahoo Autos outlines models experts recommend avoiding (https://autos.yahoo.com/deals-and-buying-guides/articles/6-electric-vehicles-avoid-buying-140711572.html).
More from Steel Horse Rides: