How Well Does the Volkswagen ID 3 Hold Up After 100,000 Miles?
If you’ve ever wondered how electric cars really fare after years of daily driving, you’re not alone. Many drivers are curious whether EVs like the Volkswagen ID 3 can stand the test of time, especially when it comes to battery health and reliability. To get some real answers, German roadside assistance giant ADAC put the ID 3 through a grueling 100,000-mile test. The results? Let’s dig in.
What Happens to the Battery After Years of Use?
Battery degradation is one of the biggest concerns for anyone considering an electric vehicle. After all, replacing a battery isn’t cheap, and nobody wants to be stuck with a car that loses range too quickly. So, how did the ID 3’s battery perform after clocking up 100,000 miles?
ADAC’s findings are pretty impressive: the ID 3 retained 91 percent of its original battery capacity. In practical terms, that means the car lost just 9 percent of its range over a distance that would take most drivers several years to cover. For context, most lithium-ion batteries in EVs are expected to lose about 2-3 percent of capacity per year under normal use, according to recent studies from the International Council on Clean Transportation. The ID 3’s results fall right in line with, or even slightly better than, these industry averages.
Is the ID 3 Still Fun to Drive After So Many Miles?
Let’s be honest—nobody wants to drive a car that feels tired or sluggish after a few years. The ID 3, with its rear-wheel-drive setup, was designed to be nimble and engaging from the start. But does that character stick around as the miles add up?
According to ADAC’s test drivers, the ID 3 still felt lively and responsive, even after its marathon journey. The electric motor’s instant torque and the car’s balanced chassis made for a driving experience that didn’t lose its charm. That’s a big deal for anyone who wants an EV that’s not just practical, but genuinely enjoyable.
How Does the ID 3 Compare to Other Electric Cars?
It’s easy to get lost in a sea of numbers, so let’s put the ID 3’s battery performance in perspective. Tesla’s Model 3, for example, is often cited as a benchmark for battery longevity. Independent tests have shown that the Model 3 typically retains about 90 percent of its battery capacity after 100,000 miles. Nissan’s Leaf, on the other hand, has historically struggled more with degradation, especially in earlier models without active battery cooling.
The ID 3’s 91 percent retention puts it right at the top of the pack, showing that Volkswagen’s battery management system is doing its job. It’s a reassuring sign for anyone worried about the long-term costs of EV ownership.
What About Maintenance and Reliability?
One of the perks of electric cars is their simplicity—fewer moving parts means fewer things to go wrong. But does that actually play out in real-world, high-mileage scenarios?
ADAC’s long-term test didn’t uncover any major mechanical issues with the ID 3. Routine maintenance was minimal, mostly limited to tire changes, brake checks, and software updates. That lines up with broader industry data: a 2023 Consumer Reports study found that EV owners typically spend about half as much on maintenance and repairs compared to those with gasoline vehicles over the first five years.
Are There Any Downsides to Watch Out For?
No car is perfect, and the ID 3 is no exception. Some drivers have reported quirks with the infotainment system and occasional software bugs, which isn’t unusual for newer EVs. Volkswagen has been rolling out updates to address these issues, but it’s something to keep in mind if you value a seamless tech experience.
Another consideration is charging infrastructure. While the ID 3 supports fast charging, your experience will depend heavily on the availability and reliability of public chargers in your area. That’s not a knock on the car itself, but it’s a reality of EV ownership in 2024.
What’s the Real-World Takeaway for Potential Buyers?
If you’re eyeing the Volkswagen ID 3 as your next car, the data from ADAC’s 100,000-mile test should offer plenty of peace of mind. The car’s battery health, driving dynamics, and low maintenance needs all point to a vehicle that’s built for the long haul. Sure, there are a few tech hiccups, but nothing that overshadows the core strengths.
The big takeaway? EV longevity isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. Whether it’s planning your charging stops or simply enjoying the drive, the ID 3 proves that electric cars can go the distance—literally and figuratively.
