How to inspect a used electric vehicle before purchase.
Thinking of making the big switch to an electric vehicle but unsure about the cost?
The high prices of brand new electric vehicles (EVs) can be off-putting, but their growing popularity has led to a booming used EV market, giving buyers the chance to make big savings.
Buying a used EV can feel a bit daunting. Even though we may know what to look for when checking out used petrol or diesel cars, what should you look out for when considering a secondhand EV? Well, we’re glad you asked - because if you’re in the market for a used EV, this article will tell you all you need to know.
At E.ON Next we’re committed to making new energy work for you. Here’s a quick overview of what to look for when you're buying a used electric car:
Battery health.
Charging port and cable.
Exterior and interior wear.
Test drive.
Maintenance and service records.
Additional tips for inspecting used EV cars.
What to look for in used electric cars.
Finding your ideal used EV is more than just about getting a good price. There’s lots to consider. Here are the key factors you should weigh up to help you spend wisely and live happily EV after.
EV battery health.
Just like your phone, EV batteries gradually lose capacity over time, affecting their range. With this in mind, when considering buying a used EV, you should prioritise the better performing models with lithium ion batteries and the most modern charging systems.
To get a good idea of a battery’s condition, compare the vehicle's displayed range with its original specs and ask the seller how the vehicle has been charged in the past (ideally, for you, it’s been slow charged overnight). It’s always worth asking for a battery state of health report (SoH) to fully assess its condition. Learn more about EV battery capacity and lifespan.
Checking the warranty coverage of a used EV is really important, especially for the expensive battery pack. You’ll find that most new EVs come with an 8-year battery warranty guaranteeing at least 70% capacity, so cars within this age range could offer some peace of mind. Look out for transferable warranties that cover the new owner and research the manufacturer's support for updates and repairs. A comprehensive warranty can protect you from any unexpected costs and give you some added security on your purchase.
Charging your EV.
Take a good look at the vehicle’s charging port – any damage could impact how efficiently it charges. To be sure, go a step further and ask if you can test the charging system itself by plugging it in. Oh, and don’t forget to check if there’s a charging cable included in your purchase.
There are three main types of charger. Slow chargers (3-7kW) are great for overnight top ups at home, while fast chargers (7-22kW) offer a quicker boost in a few hours. For super speedy charging on the go, look for rapid or ultra-rapid chargers (50-350kW). Learn how long it should take to charge an EV.
The UK's charging network is constantly expanding, making it easier than ever to keep your EV powered up with our charging app. Remember, you’ll need a charging cable, which will have a set type of connector (otherwise known as the plug). The type of charging connector you’ll need will depend on the type of EV you’re buying and the power rating of the charging point you use. However, most EVs now come with a Type 2 connector, as it’s compatible with the majority of public and home EV chargers.
When you’re considering buying any EV, think about how you’ll be charging it. Home charging is the easiest and most affordable option. No waiting around at public charging stations, you can charge on your own schedule at home, and you could even save time and money. Check out our great range of EV home chargers.
It's always a good idea to research the latest EV energy tariffs that are available, these are specially designed tariffs for homes with EVs, so can offer great benefits. Our Next Drive tariff combines your home charger with a dedicated EV tariff so you can get convenient, lower priced electricity overnight.1 Learn more about how our EV tariff works.
Exterior and interior of your EV.
Just like with petrol and diesel powered vehicles, EVs are prone to a little wear and tear, so you should carefully examine both the exterior and interior of the vehicle. Here’s a handy checklist to make sure you don’t miss anything.
Exterior.
Let’s start on the outside and work our way in shall we? When checking the exterior of a used EV, try to pay close attention to these key areas:
Bodywork. Check over the EV’s body panels for any signs of damage, like dents, scratches, or rust. Look for any misaligned panels or inconsistencies in the paint colour - these could indicate previous repairs or accidents.
Tyres. Have a good look at the tyres, check the tread depth and make sure they have no punctures, cracking, or uneven wear patterns (as this can be a sign of wheel alignment issues).
Cold start. If you can, arrange to view the EV in a "cold" state – meaning the battery hasn't been preheated. This helps reveal any potential issues that might be masked when the car is warm.
Lights and indicators. Take a friend or family member along to the viewing, and ask them to help you check all exterior lights - including headlights, taillights, brake lights, and indicators.
Interior.
Moving inside the vehicle, here’s a few important things to look out for:
Wear and tear. Check for any deterioration on things like the seats (fabric or leather), the dashboard, carpets, or other interior components. Keep an eye out for any excessive wear, tears, stains, or damage that may need attention.
Functionality. Test all the buttons, switches, and controls to make sure they’re working properly. Make sure the EV’s electronics are all in good working order, including the infotainment system, air conditioning and windows. Ask the seller if you can turn the EV on, give the motor a gentle rev, and check the dashboard dials and gauges.
Other important checks.
Now that we’ve checked the vehicle inside and out, let’s look at a few things in between:
Brake components. Check the condition of the car’s brake discs and pads. Although they’ll usually have less wear than petrol or diesel powered cars (thanks to their regenerative braking), it's still important to make sure they’re in good working order.
Cooling system. EVs need special cooling systems to maintain the right temperatures for their battery and motor - so make sure you check the vehicle’s coolant levels. Low levels could indicate a leak or neglect, and this could affect the system's efficiency.
Mileage. Confirm that the mileage displayed on the EV’s odometer is the same as the mileage advertised by the seller. If the mileage seems low for the vehicle's age and condition, be cautious, any discrepancies could be a sign of ‘clocking’ (tampering with the odometer).
Modifications. Ask the seller about any upgrades or modifications they may have made to the EV (things like new alloy wheels or upgraded air filters). Modifications like these can affect your insurance coverage, so it's a good idea you know about them in advance.
Now that you’ve made all the relevant checks, you should hopefully be starting to feel more confident about your potential purchase. Next, it’s time to take the vehicle out for a spin.
Test drive your EV.
A test drive is a must when you’re considering buying a used electric vehicle. It's a chance to experience the car firsthand as well as spot any hidden issues (if there are any). To make things easy, why not print this section and take it with you so you don’t miss anything important.
Before you go:
Insurance. Make sure you have insurance cover for any test drive. Dealers will usually have policies in place, but it's always best to confirm. If you're buying from a private seller, you'll probably need to sort out your own cover.
During the test drive:
Driving experience. Pay close attention to the vehicle's acceleration, handling, braking, and the overall driving experience. Make sure you’re satisfied that it meets your expectations in terms of comfort and performance.
Listen carefully. EVs are super quiet, making it easier to detect any unusual noises. Listen out for any strange sounds from the suspension, motor, or any of the vehicle’s other components.
Regenerative braking. A key feature of EVs is regenerative braking. If the vehicle you’re looking at has levels or settings, try them all out to ensure they’re working smoothly and effectively. Lookout for any squeaking, rattling, or uneven braking, which could be a sign it needs new pads or discs.
Check all features. Test all the car’s advertised features, like different driving modes and charging functionality. Don't forget to check even basic functions like lights, indicators, windows, and air conditioning.
Warning lights. Remember to keep an eye on the dashboard for any warning lights that light up or fail to go out after you start the vehicle.
After the test drive:
Accessories. Before you finalise any purchase, confirm if any of the vehicle’s accessories are included, such as charging cables and adapters.
Once your test drive is complete, you’ll have gained some valuable insights into the condition of the used EV you’re thinking of buying. So let’s motor on and have a look at the paperwork.
EV maintenance and service records.
Before buying your used EV, it's important to check its history and maintenance records to be sure you're making a well informed purchase:
Vehicle history report. This report can reveal crucial information about the EV's past, including any accidents, title issues, or mileage discrepancies. You also get important information regarding the vehicle's structural integrity.
Request service records. Ask the seller for the EV's complete service records. These tell you how well the vehicle’s been looked after and whether it has all the latest software updates. You’ll also see any product or part recalls.
Check for recurring issues. Look through the service records for any recurring problems or major repairs that could lead to future issues.
MOT history. Use an MOT checker to review the vehicle’s history. This can also help you identify any mechanical problems or issues plus help verify the mileage.
Charging history. If possible, ask about the previous owner's charging habits. Frequent fast charging can accelerate battery degradation, so ideally, the EV you’re considering buying will have been usually charged at home on a slow charge.
Software updates. EVs often get software updates that enhance and boost their performance. Make sure you check the vehicle’s infotainment system to see if the current software is up to date.
V5C logbook. Always ask to see the V5C logbook to confirm the seller is the registered keeper and has the right to sell the vehicle.
Original documents. Check if the seller has any original documentation that came with the EV, such as manuals and warranty handbooks.
Well done. When you’ve thoroughly checked the vehicle’s history and paperwork, you’ll have gone even further towards ensuring you get the most from your EV.
Additional tips for inspecting used EV cars.
We’ve now covered all the basics, but here’s a few extra tips to keep in mind when assessing your used EV:
Future proofing. Where possible (and budget permitting), consider buying newer models with advanced battery technology. Your EV’s battery health will be a key factor affecting your resale value if you ever come to sell it.
Charging beyond home. Learn more about public EV charging and what it’s like in your area. Locate stations, check availability, and compare pricing. This will give you a good sense of what your EV running costs are likely to be.
Pre-purchase inspection. If you are in any way unsure about any aspect of the vehicle you’re buying, you can always get a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic. They can conduct a more thorough assessment of the vehicle’s battery health, electrical components, and overall condition.
Do your research. Check the specific model you're interested in, paying close attention to any common issues reported by other owners. Online forums, owner reviews, and reliability reports can all give you valuable insights into potential problems.
Compare prices. Look at similar used EVs in the market and compare prices. This can help you gauge a fair market value and possibly even help you negotiate a better deal.
Negotiate. When you’ve done your research and have your inspection findings, make sure you look to negotiate on the price of the used EV. Factors like battery health, charging history, service records, tire condition, and any identified issues can all be used as leverage in helping you negotiate a lower price. Remember, the initial asking price is often just a starting point.
Check EV tariffs. Before you buy your EV, it’s worth checking to see what cost savings you could make by switching to a special EV tariff. E.ON Next’s EV tariff offers significantly cheaper overnight electricity rates,1 comes with 100% renewable electricity,2 and includes many extra benefits. Getting an idea of just how much lower your running costs could be will give you even more confidence in starting your EV journey.
Join the EV revolution.
Joining the electric revolution by buying a used EV is a smart and sustainable choice! It's a fantastic way to experience the benefits of electric driving while saving money and reducing your carbon footprint. Used EVs offer incredible value with lower purchase prices, reduced EV running costs, and access to ever improving technology. Learn more about the benefits of driving an EV.
Remember, don’t be intimidated by the process. With a little research and some careful consideration, you’ll almost certainly find a used EV that perfectly fits your needs and budget. Soon you can be driving a cleaner, quieter, and more efficient vehicle whilst contributing towards a greener future. Welcome to the world of electric driving!
