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Which Automakers Have the Best EV Warranty?

Let’s face it — buying an electric vehicle (EV) is more than a lifestyle choice these days. It’s an investment. And like any major purchase, you want to make sure your money is protected. That’s where warranties come into play — yet they’re often buried in the fine print or glazed over at the dealership.

So, here’s the big question: Which automakers offer the best EV warranty in 2025?

In this guide, we take a close look at EV warranty comparisons across today’s top electric car brands. We’ll unpack what’s covered, for how long, and why some brands are stepping up while others barely meet expectations. Whether you’re after long EV coverage or simply want hassle-free repairs if things go wrong, this article has you covered — literally.

Why EV Warranties Matter More Than You Think

EVs Are Simpler — But Still Costly to Repair

Yes, electric cars have fewer moving parts than petrol vehicles. But that doesn’t mean they’re immune to issues. Key areas of concern include:

  • Battery degradation or failure
  • Software faults or update conflicts
  • Charging system malfunctions
  • Electrical sensor glitches

And let’s not forget: replacing a battery pack can cost £5,000–£20,000, depending on the make and model.

That’s why knowing how long you’re covered — and for what — is crucial.

What Makes a Good EV Warranty?

Before comparing brands, let’s clarify what you should be looking for:

Battery Coverage

  • This is the heart of your EV. Most automakers cover battery defects and excessive capacity loss (typically under 70%).
  • Battery warranties are often separate from general vehicle warranties.

Powertrain Warranty

  • Covers the electric motor(s), drive unit, and controller systems.
  • Usually runs in parallel with the battery warranty.

Comprehensive (Bumper-to-Bumper) Warranty

  • Covers nearly all other non-wear-and-tear items.
  • Varies widely across manufacturers (typically 3–5 years).

Mileage Limits

  • Some warranties offer generous year-based limits — but hide behind low mileage caps.
  • A solid warranty should ideally be at least 8 years or 100,000 miles on the battery.

EV Warranty Comparison: Which Brands Lead in 2025?

Let’s get into it. Here’s how leading EV brands stack up this year.

1. Tesla

  • Battery & Drive Unit:
    • 8 years / 100,000–150,000 miles (model-dependent)
    • Retains minimum 70% battery capacity
  • Basic Vehicle Warranty:
    • 4 years / 50,000 miles
  • Standout: OTA diagnostics often prevent small issues from becoming big ones. But Tesla’s warranty doesn’t cover battery degradation diagnostics unless capacity loss exceeds 30%.
  • Verdict: Reliable coverage, but lacks transparency in customer service follow-up.

2. Hyundai / Kia (Same Group)

  • Battery:
    • 8 years / 100,000 miles
    • Covers capacity drops under 70% (including diagnostics)
  • Comprehensive Warranty:
    • Hyundai: 5 years / unlimited miles (UK)
    • Kia: 7 years / 100,000 miles (industry-best for ICE and EV)
  • Standout: Kia’s long standard coverage makes it the longest all-round EV warranty package.
  • Verdict: One of the best long-term ownership safety nets — especially for buyers who keep cars beyond the lease period.

3. Toyota (bZ4X)

  • Battery:
    • 8 years / 100,000 miles (standard)
    • Optionally extended to 10 years / 1,000,000 km with regular dealer checks in some regions
  • Comprehensive:
    • 3 years / 60,000 miles
  • Standout: Toyota’s hybrid experience translates well to EV reliability promises.
  • Verdict: Solid but conservative — better than most, but not industry-leading.

4. Rivian

  • Battery & Drivetrain:
    • 8 years / 175,000 miles
    • Covers drops below 70% capacity
  • Comprehensive Vehicle Warranty:
    • 5 years / 60,000 miles
  • Corrosion Protection:
    • 8 years / unlimited miles (rare!)
  • Standout: Rivian’s off-road focus demands durability, and their warranty backs it up.
  • Verdict: Among the longest in battery and drivetrain — ideal for high-mileage adventurers.

5. Lucid Motors

  • Battery & Powertrain:
    • 8 years / 100,000 miles
  • Comprehensive:
    • 4 years / 50,000 miles
  • Extras:
    • Concierge service & remote diagnostics
    • OTA software updates included
  • Verdict: Elegant warranty, but not as generous in miles compared to competitors.

6. BMW i-Series (e.g. i4, iX, iX1)

  • Battery:
    • 8 years / 100,000 miles
  • Vehicle Warranty:
    • 3 years / unlimited mileage (UK)
  • Standout: Includes EV-specific servicing packages and flexible repair plans.
  • Verdict: Great battery coverage, and unlimited mileage is a plus — especially for lease buyers.

7. Mercedes-Benz EQ Line

  • Battery:
    • 10 years / 155,000 miles (for EQS, UK-specific)
    • 8 years / 100,000 miles (other EQ models)
  • Vehicle:
    • 3 years / unlimited miles (UK)
  • Verdict: One of the few brands offering a 10-year battery warranty. Ideal for luxury buyers with long-term ownership in mind.

Which Brand Has the Best EV Warranty?

Here’s a quick tiered summary to help you decide at a glance:

Best Overall Long EV Coverage:

Kia — 7 years bumper-to-bumper, solid battery terms, and transferability make it unbeatable for value.

Best Battery Warranty (Miles):

Rivian — 8 years / 175,000 miles, perfect for long-range road warriors.

Best Luxury Coverage:

Mercedes-Benz EQS — 10-year battery warranty on select models shows premium doesn’t mean short-term support.

Important Extras to Look For

Don’t forget these bonus warranty perks:

  • Transferability: Can the next buyer benefit too?
  • A mechanic holds a multimeter, testing a car battery, displaying a reading of 12.55 volts, with an engine in the background.

  • Battery Degradation Measurement: Is it based on real-world range or lab capacity?
  • Free EV Servicing or Diagnostics: A huge cost-saver over time.
  • Roadside Assistance Included: Some brands bundle this during the warranty period.

Real-World Story: Lisa’s Kia Confidence

A man in a white t-shirt holds car keys and gestures, standing in a bright car dealership with modern vehicles in the background.

Lisa, a teacher from Edinburgh, went with a Kia EV6.

“I’d planned to lease it for three years. But knowing I’ve got a 7-year safety net, I’ll likely keep it long-term. Plus, the dealer said it adds resale value.”

Her story highlights something important: warranty length affects your future flexibility, not just short-term peace of mind.

Warranty = Long-Term Value and Confidence

EV technology is exciting — but still evolving. That’s why a solid warranty isn’t just a “nice to have” — it’s your insurance policy against the unknown.

Whether you’re looking for the best electric car brand for long-term value, comparing battery promises, or wondering how warranties hold up after a few years, this guide gives you a clear edge.

The bottom line? Prioritise brands that match your driving habits — and don’t just settle for the base promise. Ask the hard questions, read the details, and protect your investment.

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