New data released this week from germany’s TÜV federation offers a comprehensive look at vehicle reliability, based on the results of nearly 9.5 million inspections between June 2024 and June 2025. the report reveals significant variation in performance among different models, especially as vehicles age and accumulate mileage.Findings indicate that while initial reliability can be a challenge for some electric vehicle models – notably the Tesla Model Y – consistent preventative maintenance remains a key factor in long-term dependability across all vehicle types.
Recent data from Germany’s TÜV federation, based on approximately 9.5 million vehicle inspections conducted between June 2024 and June 2025, reveals varying reliability levels among battery-electric vehicles. The inspections have yielded enough statistically significant results to allow for comparative analysis of specific models. Among cars three years old – undergoing their first major inspection – the Tesla Model Y demonstrated the highest failure rate at 17.3%, followed by the Ford Mondeo and the Tesla Model 3.
Fotó: Renault
Maintenance Habits Impact Vehicle Reliability
The data suggests a correlation between vehicle age and reliability, with older, typically lower-priced vehicles appearing more frequently on lists of unreliable cars. A lack of routine maintenance appears to be a contributing factor, as owners of electric vehicles may be misinterpreting the lower maintenance requirements of these vehicles and foregoing regular servicing. The TÜV inspections showed that failures in electric vehicles were commonly linked to issues with hydraulic brakes and suspension. The Tesla models in question had, on average, exceeded 50,000 kilometers of usage, indicating above-average mileage.
This trend highlights the importance of preventative maintenance, even with newer vehicle technologies. The automotive sector is currently undergoing a significant shift towards electric vehicles, and maintaining consumer confidence in their long-term reliability will be crucial for continued adoption.
As vehicles age, the trend shifts, with the Renault Clio becoming the most frequent failure among those 13 years old. Conversely, premium models, both new and used, are often maintained at authorized service centers, resulting in fewer issues even after reaching 170,000 kilometers during TÜV inspections. This demonstrates that consistent, professional maintenance can significantly improve a vehicle’s long-term reliability, regardless of its initial price point. You can find more information about unreliable cars here, and details on the most reliable used cars here.
