2020 Karma Revero
The 2020 Karma Revero GT is a luxury electric vehicle with a gasoline-powered range extender. The Revero GT boasts a combined system output of 536 horsepower and 550 lb-ft of torque from its twin electric motors. It uses a 28 kWh battery pack and a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine supplied by BMW as a generator, not directly driving the wheels. Owners appreciate the car’s distinctive styling, luxurious interior, and unique driving experience. Some criticisms include its high price, limited dealer network, and the complexity of its powertrain.
Electric Motor
Dual Electric Motors (536 hp / 550 lb-ft)
- Motor Bearing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive noise coming from one or both electric motors, often described as a whining or grinding sound. Reduced power output and potential motor failure.
- Solution: Replacing the affected motor(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+ (depending on the repair shop and if one or both motors need replacement).
- Recalls: None Found
Battery
- Battery Module Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Reduced range, slower charging, error messages related to the battery system. In some cases, complete battery failure.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty battery module or the entire battery pack.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000-$15,000+ (depending on the module/pack requiring replacement).
- Recalls: None Found
- Charging System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Car failing to charge, slow charging speeds, error messages during charging, or the car refusing to recognize a charging station.
- Solution: This could range from replacing the charging port, the onboard charger, or a software update to the battery management system.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ (depending on the component needing replacement).
- Recalls: None Found
Range Extender (BMW 1.5L Turbo 3-Cylinder)
- Coolant Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: The BMW-sourced 1.5L engine is known to have coolant leaks in the engine. This often occurs around the coolant lines and water pump
- Solution: Replacing the faulty coolant lines, water pump, and potentially other components of the cooling system
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ (depending on the part and the labor involved)
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: BMW-sourced 1.5L engine is known to have oil leaks, most commonly at the valve cover and oil pan.
- Solution: Replacing the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or resealing the affected areas.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+ (depending on the location and severity of the leak).
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system becomes unresponsive, freezes, crashes, or reboots frequently.
- Solution: Software updates, replacement of the infotainment system module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ (depending on complexity and the need for hardware replacement).
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
- Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate readings or failure of parking sensors, blind spot monitoring system malfunctions.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty sensors, recalibration of the system.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ (per sensor/system recalibration).
- Recalls: None Found
- 12V Battery Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Frequent 12V battery drain, leading to starting problems or electrical system malfunctions.
- Solution: Replacement of the 12V battery, diagnosis of parasitic drain issues, software updates.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ (depending on the cause and extent of the problem).
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Handle Problems
- Description/Symptoms: The flush-mounted door handles sometimes fail to present properly, either due to mechanical or electrical faults.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the door handle mechanism or related electronics.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per handle.
- Recalls: None Found
- Panel Alignment Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Uneven panel gaps, misalignment of doors, hood, or trunk.
- Solution: Adjustment of body panels, shimming, or more extensive bodywork if necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the severity and extent of the misalignment).
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Wood Trim Delamination
- Description/Symptoms: The wood trim on the dashboard or door panels may start to delaminate or crack.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected trim pieces.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ (depending on the piece and materials).
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Motor Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Power seats failing to adjust or getting stuck in one position.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor or the entire seat assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ per seat.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Air suspension malfunctions, leading to ride height problems, failure to adjust, or error messages.
- Solution: Replacement of the air struts, air compressor, or associated sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ per strut/component.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2020 Karma Revero GT presents a mix of potential issues, primarily related to its complex powertrain and electrical systems. Motor bearing and battery failures can be expensive to resolve, while electrical glitches and interior trim problems are more common nuisances. The coolant and oil leaks on the range extender are less severe but can still lead to significant repair costs. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major component failures, with associated costs spanning from a few hundred to several thousands of dollars. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision and long-term ownership costs.