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Top Tips When Shopping for a Used Electric Vehicle

15 January / United Kingdom

Welcome to our Used EV Buying Checklist blog, dedicated to helping aspiring EV owners navigate the exciting world of used electric vehicles. As the demand for sustainable transportation options continues to rise, buying a pre-owned EV has become a popular choice that combines affordability and environmental consciousness. Join us as we explore top tips for choosing a pre-owned electric vehicle. Let’s dive in together!

Research and Compare: Before starting your search, thoroughly research different used electric vehicle models, their specifications, and performance metrics. Compare prices, features, and battery health across different vehicles to make an informed decision. EV Database has a huge range of information on a variety of models to help you make the right choice.

Verify Battery Health: The condition of the battery is crucial when buying a used electric vehicle. Most EVs have a battery status indicator that shows you how much charging capacity or battery health they have. Simply check the display to see how many of the bars are full. Request information about the battery’s health, including its state of charge, capacity, and any degradation issues. It may be beneficial to have a professional assessment or get a battery health report to ensure you are aware of the battery’s condition before purchasing. AutoTrader has an in-depth guide here.
Understand Charging Requirements: Electric vehicles have different charging capabilities, including different charging levels and connector types. Understand the charging options available in your area and ensure the used vehicle you consider is compatible with the available charging infrastructure. ZapMap’s helpful EV Charging guide is a great tool which covers multiple aspects of charging topics.
Conduct a Thorough Inspection: Like any used diesel or petrol vehicle, a physical inspection is important. Examine the exterior, interior, tires, and suspension. Look for signs of damage, wear and tear, or any potential mechanical issues. Consider engaging a trusted mechanic or electric vehicle specialist to inspect the vehicle’s electrical systems and components. Compare The Market has a thorough list of common sense tips to help!
Check Vehicle History: Obtain the vehicle’s history report to check for any accidents, repairs, or outstanding recalls. This will help you make an informed decision and identify any potential issues that could impact the performance or value of the vehicle.
Test Drive the Vehicle: Schedule a test drive to experience the performance, handling, and comfort of the electric vehicle. Pay attention to acceleration, braking, and the responsiveness of the electric drivetrain. Take note of any unusual sounds or vibrations during the test drive. We’ve included this useful article by MyEV here to help.
Understand the Warranties: EVs often have a car warranty and a separate battery warranty. Coverage offered differs between manufacturers. However, most carmakers are aware of buyers’ concerns about battery longevity, so as well as selling their electric cars with customary warranties of 3-7 years which covers the vehicle components, most of them also separately guarantee the batteries for a longer period of around 5-8 years.