2017 Karma Revero
The 2017 Karma Revero is a luxury plug-in hybrid vehicle known for its distinctive styling and focus on sustainability. It utilizes a twin-motor drive system paired with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine sourced from General Motors, which acts as a generator to extend the vehicle’s range. The engine does not directly power the wheels. Peak output from the electric motors is rated at 403 horsepower and 981 lb-ft of torque. The Revero’s appeal lies in its unique design, luxurious interior appointments, and electric driving capabilities. However, some owners have reported concerns regarding reliability, particularly with the car’s complex electrical systems and range extender engine. The Revero originally had a price point of around $130,000, so maintenance and repair costs also tend to be high.
Electric Motor
Twin Electric Motor Drive System
- Loss of Power/Reduced Range
- Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported experiencing a sudden loss of power or a noticeable reduction in the vehicle’s electric range. This can manifest as sluggish acceleration or an inability to achieve the advertised range.
- Solution: Diagnosis involves checking the battery pack’s health, the electric motor’s performance, and the associated control modules for any faults. A software update may be required to address some issues. In severe cases, battery pack or motor replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $15,000+ depending on if the motor or battery pack is the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
- Charging Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Problems with the car failing to charge, slow charging, or inability to use certain charging stations.
- Solution: Inspect the charging port, onboard charger, and charging cables for damage. Resetting the charging system or performing a software update may resolve the issue. In some cases, the onboard charger may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,500+ depending on the source of the problem.
- Recalls: None Found
2.0L GM Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Range Extender Engine
- Engine Misfires/Check Engine Light
- Description/Symptoms: The check engine light illuminates, and the engine may run rough or misfire. This is often triggered by faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or issues with the fuel injection system.
- Solution: Diagnosing the cause of the misfire requires a scan tool to read the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Replacing faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors can resolve the issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the parts needing to be replaced.
- Recalls: None Found
- Cooling System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, or a low coolant level. This can be caused by a faulty water pump, thermostat, or leaks in the cooling hoses or radiator.
- Solution: Inspect the cooling system for leaks and replace any damaged components. A pressure test can help identify leaks. Flushing the cooling system and replacing the thermostat may also be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+ depending on the part.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, crash, or exhibit unresponsive behavior. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
- Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. In some cases, replacing the infotainment system may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on the cause.
- Recalls: None Found
- 12V Battery Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the 12V battery, leading to starting problems or electrical system glitches. This may be due to parasitic drain or a charging system malfunction.
- Solution: Check the charging system voltage and look for any parasitic drains. Replacing the 12V battery with a high-quality AGM battery is recommended.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ for battery replacement and diagnostic work.
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Various sensors (e.g., tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), parking sensors, etc.) may fail, triggering warning lights on the dashboard.
- Solution: Scan the vehicle for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) to identify the faulty sensor. Replace the sensor and clear the DTC.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor, depending on the sensor type and labor costs.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Handle Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Failure of the door handles to properly extend or retract. Can become inoperative in cold weather.
- Solution: Inspect the door handle mechanism for damage or obstruction. Lubrication may resolve the issue. Replacement of the door handle assembly may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per handle.
- Recalls: None Found
- Lighting Issues
- Description/Symptoms: LED headlights or taillights failing prematurely.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty headlight or taillight assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per light assembly.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
- Solution: Inspect the sunroof tracks for obstructions or damage. Lubricating the tracks may resolve the issue. Replacement of the sunroof motor or assembly may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Motor Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Electric seat motors failing to adjust the seats.
- Solution: Check the seat motor and wiring for damage. Replacing the faulty seat motor may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per seat.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Air suspension system failing, causing the vehicle to sag or ride unevenly.
- Solution: Inspect air struts, compressor, and air lines for leaks. Replace any damaged components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the part that needs to be replaced.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2017 Karma Revero presents a mix of issues, ranging from minor electrical glitches to more significant concerns involving the battery pack, range extender engine, and air suspension. The severity and cost of these issues can vary greatly, with some repairs potentially costing thousands of dollars. It’s crucial for prospective buyers to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic specializing in electric and hybrid vehicles. The high price point of the car, paired with the potential for high repair costs, should be seriously considered.