Quick facts about used electric cars Buying a used electric car may seem intimidating at first, especially if you’ve never owned an EV. Electric cars require some different thinking compared to gasoline- or diesel-fueled vehicles. There are some extra things to consider when looking at a used electric vehicle.
A car dealership’s service department can give you a detailed report on battery health. Alternatively, you can charge the used electric car to 100% and then see what the estimated range says. Comparing this to the original rating will give you an idea of what’s left. If this has happened — and the seller can provide documentation confirming the work — it’s a major coup. It means that someone before you went through the effort and expense of having this job performed.
3. Investigate how much battery warranty is left Yes, we’re still talking about batteries, but there may be some good news this time. All mainstream automakers included more extended warranty coverage for battery packs than they did for the rest of the vehicle. Many used electric cars will still be under warranty. But read the fine print.
4. Ask about maintenance history We always suggest asking a previous owner or a dealer about maintenance history, especially for any service records they can provide. The most significant change — and the one that can affect a used electric car’s battery — is an increase in battery capacity. Tesla doesn’t use model years for its updates; you’ll want to view the car’s information through its touchscreen. For other automakers, the VIN holds information that a dealer can provide regarding configuration.
If you plan to top off your electric car at work or bank on regular, brief visits to public charging stations, consider an electric vehicle that charges quickly. If you plan to charge overnight at home or all day at work, this may not be a significant factor, and it may mean you can save money with a cheaper used electric car.8.