13 Hybrid Cars To Avoid at All Costs

Sales of hybrid cars, which combine internal combustion and electric power, have been increasing in the U.S.

According to data from Wards Intelligence, combined sales of hybrid vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and battery electric vehicles in America climbed 16.3% of total new light-duty vehicle sales in 2023, up from 12.9% the prior year.

Even though their popularity is climbing, there are still some hybrid models that motorists should avoid. While many of these vehicles suffer from the same problems as conventional internal combustion engine-powered cars—windows that leak, braking issues, malfunctioning infotainment systems—some hybrids reported trouble with the battery and other electrical problems.

We have curated a list of hybrid cars to stay away from buying. The cars on this list were culled from information from auto industry publications and automotive experts. The selections were based on efficiency, reliability, performance, and value, among other factors.

2020 Ford Escape Hybrid

The 2020 Ford Escape Hybrid was well-priced at $29,510 when new and is fuel-efficient. It features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and two electric motors generating 221 horsepower.

Owners have complained that the vehicle’s gear shifting is rough, and there have been reports that the entire transmission had to be replaced. Also, Consumer Reports said the 2020 Escape Hybrid was unreliable, and its infotainment system sometimes malfunctioned.

2014 and 2015 Nissan Pathfinder HEV

In these model years, the Pathfinder Hybrid had braking and electrical problems with the infotainment and navigation systems. Other issues with the Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid included shaking and vibration when shifting. Reports have also been made of the vehicle not accelerating after a sudden stop.

The Pathfinder Hybrid was powered by a 22-hp electric motor supported by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine.

2016-2018 Ford Focus

Three Ford Focus hybrid models make our list. The 2016 model was criticized by Consumer Reports for hesitant acceleration, malfunctioning faulty display screens, and head gasket failure. The following year’s model was cited for five recall issues by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, among them stalling, transmission fluid leaks, and inadequate seat back strength.

Things weren’t much better for the 2018 model. Consumer Reports cited fuel system problems, head gasket failure, and reliability issues.

2011-2015 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid

Recalls have dogged many Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid models. One of the bigger problems has been little drainage under the battery. A rear hatch was failing to open to allow for drainage, causing the battery to short circuit and posing a fire hazard.

There was also a recall for a missing clip for the brake pedal pivot pin, which allowed the brake pedal to come off, and another for a leak in the fuel injection system.

2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E

The storied Mustang brand includes the 2022 Mustang Mach-E, which received a mixed reaction. The car gets points for its stylish interior and 15.5-inch vertically mounted touchscreen.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Association has recalled the car four times. The NHTSA cited the Mustang twice for an overheated high-voltage battery contactor that can result in a loss of drive power, a broken half shaft that can cause a loss of power, and improperly attached seat belts.

Chevrolet Bolt EV

The Chevrolet Bolt EV is one of the better-selling electric vehicles, based chiefly on its base price, starting at $27,495 for a 2023 model. The fact that it seats five comfortably and has more storage space than you’d expect are points in its favor.

Unfortunately, the Bolt EV’s problems include power loss and transmission failure. Consumers also complain about its unreliable electronics.

 2017 Volvo XC60 Plug-In Hybrid

When you think of Volvo, you usually think of a car maker that builds autos with safety in mind. It might come as a surprise that the 2017 XC60 Hybrid has had safety problems.

The SUV, introduced in 2010, experienced recalls from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that affected airbags, seatbelts, and electrical systems (issues with its GPS).

2018 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2018 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid was an early plug-in hybrid minivan on the market. It had an above-average EV range—about 30 miles. However, multiple recalls and issues with its hybrid battery have hobbled it.

Consumer Reports also said its V6 powertrain, paired with two electric motors, falls victim to engine failure. An issue with the 12-volt battery caused a recall of the vehicle.

2016 and 2018 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid

Two models of the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid earned a place on our list. The 2016 featured a four-cylinder gas engine twinned with two electric motors, producing 182 hp. The 2016 Malibu Hybrid could cruise at 55 mph on electricity alone. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration cited the vehicle for nine recalls, including failed airbags, improperly secured seat belt retractor, and fuel line fire risks.

The 2018 model was lauded for its roomy interior and fuel economy. However, the 2018 Malibu has been recalled six times, including one for leaking transmission fluid. Other owner complaints included engine failure.

2013 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid debuted in 2007, as interest in hybrids was climbing and gas prices were surging at a then-record $2.85.

The vehicle paired an electric motor with a 6.0-liter V8 that produced 332 hp. Consumers didn’t see much difference in MPG performance. It got only 21 miles per gallon, reaching 23 MPG on the highway.

2022 Ford Explorer Hybrid

There is much to recommend for the Ford Explorer Hybrid: Design, technology, comfort, and reliability are just some noteworthy features. Its 3.3-liter V6 and electric motor can generate 318 hp.

However, the 4,969-pound Ford Explorer Hybrid gets a combined MPG of just 23. Its price tag is just as hefty, starting at $52,060.

2017 BMW X5 Hybrid

The 2017 BMW X5 Hybrid is an SUV. According to Edmunds, it delivers on performance, comfort, handling, and luxury, as you might expect from the BMW badge.

Where it is found lacking are issues with its brakes. Owners complain of a vibration when the brakes are applied. Other problems have been experienced with the 2017 BMW X5 Hybrid’s brakes, such as pulsation or vibration and issues with the antilock system and calipers, climate system, suspension, fuel system, and drive system. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported five recalls for the vehicle.

2014 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid

Electric issues were the biggest problems for the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander. These issues began with the battery and worked their way into other areas of the vehicle, such as the air conditioning system. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration cited the Outlander Hybrid for recalls for its seat belts and its parking brake.

Other areas that owners complained about were cramped space, and they also said it failed to meet fuel-efficiency targets.