Hybrid car reliability according to Consumer Reports
Updated April 8, 2012
"These hybrid systems have been very reliable," states David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports' auto test center, noting the 94% of Toyota Prius owners who would buy another Prius, according to their influential consumer survey.
Even better, Consumer Reports has called the Toyota Prius a Best Value, and has even found that Prius hybrids as old as 10+ years are still very good buys, in large part because of their reliability. Even if the batteries need to be replaced, Consumer Reports found that used, but in great shape, battery replacements could be found for $500.
And it's not just the Prius.
The Ford Fusion hybrid has achieved stellar 'buy again' ratings from Consumer Reports, and CR even calls the Fusion hybrid the most reliable family car.
Many other hybrids have also received high marks for their reliability, based on Consumer Reports members and from internal testing. In fact, as a segment, hybrids have consistently been one of the most reliable buys available today.
Coupled with excellent warranties for both batteries and hybrid powertrain, Consumer Reports demonstrates that reliability is a reason to buy a hybrid, not to avoid a hybrid purchase.
Moreover, Consumer Reports Prius ratings prove that hybrid cars can easily last more than 10 years, rack up 100,000's of miles, and still provide incredible used car value -- even if the battery needs to be replaced.
