2023 Lucid Air
The 2023 Lucid Air is an all-electric luxury sedan that competes with the Tesla Model S and Mercedes-Benz EQS. It boasts impressive range, performance, and a luxurious interior. The powertrain consists of dual electric motors and a single-speed transmission. The Lucid Air is offered with several powertrain configurations, with the Grand Touring model producing up to 819 horsepower and over 885 lb-ft of torque and offering a range of over 500 miles. Many owners praise the car’s stunning design, comfortable ride, and advanced technology. However, some common complaints include software glitches, build quality issues, and occasional problems with the charging system.
Electric Motor
Dual Motor (All Models)
- Motor Coolant Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the motor. Can cause overheating and reduced performance.
- Solution: Replace the motor coolant line and/or the motor assembly if damaged.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on the source of the leak and whether the entire motor needs replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
- Reduced Power/Check Powertrain Warning
- Description/Symptoms: Occasional reduction in power, accompanied by a “Check Powertrain” warning message on the dashboard. This could be due to a variety of reasons from sensor issues to module issues.
- Solution: Diagnosis by a Lucid service center to pinpoint the root cause, which may involve software updates, sensor replacement, or motor control module repair.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$1,500+ depending on the severity of the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Software Glitches/Infotainment Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system freezes, glitches, or crashes. Features may be unresponsive, including navigation, audio, and climate controls.
- Solution: Lucid has released over-the-air (OTA) software updates to address many of these issues. For persistent problems, a hard reset or dealer visit may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Typically covered under warranty if it’s a software issue. If the infotainment unit needs replacement, cost could exceed $1,000.
- Recalls: None Found
- Charging Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulties with both AC and DC fast charging. The car might not initiate charging, charge at a slower rate than expected, or abruptly stop charging.
- Solution: Check the charging equipment and try different charging stations. If the issue persists, it could be a problem with the car’s onboard charger or battery management system, requiring diagnosis and repair at a Lucid service center.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+, depending on the component that needs repair or replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
- 12V Battery Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The 12V battery drains rapidly, leading to problems starting the car or using electrical components.
- Solution: Replace the 12V battery with a new one. Also investigate for parasitic draws that may be draining the battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, Driver Assistance Systems)
- Description/Symptoms: Parking sensors fail to detect obstacles, or driver assistance features like lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control malfunction. This could lead to false positives or failures to warn the driver.
- Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty sensors. Calibration of the driver assistance systems may also be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per sensor, plus calibration costs.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Alignment Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Doors not aligned properly with the body, causing wind noise or difficulty closing.
- Solution: Adjustment of the door hinges and latches at a Lucid service center.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500.
- Recalls: None Found
- Panel Gaps
- Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent panel gaps between body panels.
- Solution: Body shop adjust the panels to have even gaps.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$1,000.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- HVAC System Problems
- Description/Symptoms: HVAC system not functioning properly, blowing hot air when cold air is selected or vice-versa. Fan speed control issues.
- Solution: Diagnosis of the HVAC system components (compressor, blend door actuator, control module) and replacement of faulty parts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+, depending on the failed component.
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Motor Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Electric seat adjustments failing or making unusual noises.
- Solution: Replace the seat motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$800.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Problems
- Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system fails to maintain the correct ride height, causing the car to sag or ride unevenly. The air compressor may run excessively or fail.
- Solution: Diagnosis of the air suspension system for leaks or faulty components, followed by replacement of air struts, compressor, or control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ per strut, plus labor and alignment costs.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2023 Lucid Air, while lauded for its innovative design and performance, experiences a range of issues primarily related to its complex electrical and software systems. While some issues are minor software glitches that can be addressed with updates, others, such as charging problems and air suspension malfunctions, can be more severe and costly to repair. Build quality, while generally good, can be inconsistent, resulting in panel alignment issues. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their ownership expectations. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially expensive repairs. The overall cost to fix these problems varies widely, but major electrical or suspension repairs could easily exceed $2,000.