Wirtz Law Blog

Electric vehicles and electric-gasoline hybrid vehicles are reshaping the US vehicle landscape. Owners like these vehicles for their fuel savings and reduced impact on the environment. 

However, as automakers develop these technologies, issues arise. Vehicles may be offered for sale before they’re ready to deliver the safety and reliability drivers need. 

Here are twelve 2025 model year EVs and hybrids that are struggling to live up to their automakers’ safety and reliability promises. 

1. Chevrolet Equinox

The Chevrolet Equinox EV recently became the subject of a recall. The cruise control system is equipped with radar. When the radar senses a vehicle ahead, it should engage the vehicle’s brakes to prevent a collision. In some Equinox EVs, however, this feature fails to engage, increasing the risk of a crash.

2. Ford F-150 Lightning

Fire risk is a common item in EV and hybrid recalls, and the 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning is no exception. The vehicle recently became the subject of a recall due to problems with the manufacture of the battery, which can lead to an internal short circuit. The short circuit can cause a fire.

3. Ford Mustang Mach-E

Ford also recently announced a recall of several 2021-2022 Mustang Mach-E extended-range and GT models. The vehicles may fail to start or lose power while driving if the batteries overheat. The risk is higher when the batteries are fast-charged or the accelerator is “floored” while driving, according to Ford.

4. Honda Prologue

Honda recently recalled a handful of Honda Prologue vehicles because a weakness in the vehicle’s suspension can cause the right front lower control link to break. If it does, the vehicle becomes harder to control and may crash.

5. Hyundai Ioniq 5

In November 2024, Hyundai announced a recall of several Ioniq and Genesis models. The vehicle’s integrated charging control unit (ICCU) can fail due to damage. If it does, a loss of drive power can result from a 12-volt battery that is no longer charging properly. The recall affects over 145,000 vehicles in model years 2023 to 2025.

6. KIA EV6

The Kia EV6 became the subject of a November 2024 recall when owners reported issues with the battery system. The vehicle’s integrated charging control unit (ICCU) can become damaged. If it does, it will stop charging the vehicle’s 12-volt battery, which can trigger a loss of drive power. Loss of power while driving can prevent a driver from responding appropriately in order to prevent collisions and other serious issues on the road.

7. Rivian R1S

The Rivian R1S and R1T have been the subject of several recalls. These include recalls for issues like headlights failing to turn on, improper side air bag deployment, and failure to activate “park” mode when the driver releases the pedal.

8. Tesla Cybertruck

In early 2025, Tesla announced a recall of its 2024 and 2025 Cybertruck models. The recall focuses on fixing a problem with the stainless-steel exterior trim, which can delaminate and detach from the vehicle. If the trim flies off the vehicle at high speeds, it can cause injuries to those in the Cybertruck or others on the road. The recall affects nearly every Cybertruck sold or leased in the United States as of March 2025.

9. Tesla Model 3

Tesla issued a recall of over 376,000 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles in model year 2023 due to a power steering issue. The power steering assist can fail. When it does, steering becomes much more difficult, especially at low speeds.

10. Toyota RAV-4 Hybrid

Toyota recalled over 44,000 RAV-4 hybrid vehicles due to issues with the vehicle’s engine. Defects in the engine castings can cause coolant to leak, resulting in overheating and increasing the risk of a crash.

11. Volvo S60, V60, S90, V90, XC60, XC90 

Volvo recalled nearly 7,500 plug-in hybrids in early 2025. The vehicles could short-circuit while parked and fully charged. If a short circuit occurred, the vehicle could catch fire. It could also set fire to surrounding structures, such as a house or garage.

12. Volvo VNRE

The 2025 Volvo VNRE is the subject of several recalls, including recalls for battery fire issues, key safety systems, and steering control issues. The recall for loss of steering control comes with a Do Not Drive warning.

What To Do If You Own an EV or Hybrid That Is a Lemon

We have proudly served Southern California for many years. We also have experience in serving communities in Northern and Central California. We take pride in handling the tough lemon law process and securing a buyback or other suitable option for your unique situation.

Electric vehicles and hybrids are popular for their cutting-edge technology, fuel savings, and environmental benefits. Yet the technology can pose issues as well.

The team at Wirtz Law APC represents vehicle owners at no cost to our clients. If you have a persistent issue with your EV, hybrid, or conventional vehicle, speak to an experienced California lemon law attorney today.

To learn more, contact us today at (858) 259-5009 or fill out our online form.