2021 Polestar Polestar 1

Introduction

The 2021 Polestar 1 is a limited production plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) manufactured by Polestar. The vehicle features a 2.0-liter supercharged and turbocharged inline-four gasoline engine paired with two electric motors, producing a combined 619 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. The Polestar 1 is only available with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Despite its impressive performance and technology, the Polestar 1 has faced numerous issues as reported by owners.

Engine

2.0L Supercharged and Turbocharged Inline-Four Gasoline Engine

• Fuel Injectors Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, loss of power, rough idling, and increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Valve Sticking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, rough idling, and increased emissions.
  • Solution: Replacement of affected valves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
• Turbocharger Oil Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the turbocharger, blue smoke from the exhaust, and reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty turbocharger or repair of oil seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Gear Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loss of power, and grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of transmission components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
• Electronic Control Unit (ECU) Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission malfunction, gear selection issues, and limp mode activation.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the ECU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+

Suspension

• Front Suspension Strut Noise:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loud clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps or during cornering.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty suspension struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Rear Suspension Bushing Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise and vibration from the rear suspension, premature tire wear, and decreased handling stability.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn suspension bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

Electrical

• Battery Pack Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of electric power, reduced driving range, and warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of faulty battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $10,000 - $15,000+
• Charging System Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty charging the vehicle or slow charging speeds.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of charging components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Exterior

• Panel Gap Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven gaps between body panels, misaligned panels, and wind noise.
  • Solution: Adjustment or replacement of affected panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Headlight Condensation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight assemblies, impairing visibility.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty headlight seals or ventilation system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

Interior

• Infotainment System Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Frozen or unresponsive touchscreen, software glitches, and connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Climate Control System Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning air conditioning or heating system, poor ventilation, and excessive noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Seat Adjustment Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty adjusting the seats electrically, seat movement getting stuck or shaking.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty seat adjustment motors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

Summary

The 2021 Polestar 1 has encountered a range of issues that can be both costly and frustrating for owners. The severity of the issues varies, with some requiring extensive repairs and others being relatively minor. The most common issues reported include engine problems, transmission issues, and electrical malfunctions. The estimated cost of repairs can add up quickly, with some issues exceeding $10,000 to fix. It is important for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and factor in the potential cost of repairs when considering the purchase of a Polestar 1.