I've seen a bunch of surveys that indicate they are extremely reliable. Toyota has been building them for decades and would be a brand to go with if interested. The company is usually at the top of reliability surveys.
Edit:
I've also seen some ridiculous numbers on fuel efficiency, for the base Camry LE in particular. That car, with front wheel drive and 16 inch wheels/tires, is showing 54mpg for some testers in combination city/highway driving.
Yes, hybrids are generally very reliable, often proving more dependable than traditional gas cars, with major studies showing fewer issues, especially from established brands like Toyota and Lexus, thanks to mature technology and less wear on components like brakes and engines, though Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs) can be less reliable as a category.
Key Reliability Factors
- Fewer Problems: Consumer Reports data indicates hybrids have significantly fewer problems than gas-only cars, with some studies showing hybrids have 26% fewer issues.
- Longer Component Life: The electric motor assists the gas engine, reducing strain, leading to longer life for brakes (regenerative braking) and potentially less frequent oil changes.
- Proven Technology: After decades of development, hybrid systems from major manufacturers are highly refined and reliable.
- Top Brands: Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Hyundai, and Kia consistently rank high for hybrid reliability.
Considerations
- PHEVs vs. Hybrids: Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) tend to have more issues than standard hybrids, as they add complex battery and electric systems, though top models like the RAV4 Prime are exceptions.
- Battery Life: While batteries eventually need replacement, they are designed to last, with many reaching well over 100,000-200,000 miles with proper care.
- Model-Specific Reliability: Reliability varies by model; always check specific vehicle scores (e.g., Lexus NX, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid are top performers).
In summary, conventional hybrids are a reliable choice, often exceeding traditional cars, but checking individual model reliability ratings is key.
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