When buying a used electric vehicle (EV) the most important point to take note is the battery health.
Then look at the existing vehicle battery warranty coverage. You need to ask for the battery’s state of health, potential range right now and any available battery reports from the manufacturer. After all, the EV battery is the MOST expensive component to replace is there is any issue.
Next you need to look for charging port damage (there are some first owners who have incurred some damage). You must ensure the charging cables are included
Then like any used car (petrol, diesel, hybrid) look for signs of wear and tear on the car’s interior and body.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown for you to remember
1. Battery Health and Range:
The battery is the most critical component of an EV. Ask for a battery health report from the seller or a trusted dealer, and consider a professional inspection if needed.
Compare the advertised range of the used EV with its potential new range to see how much the battery has degraded (percentage).
Take the car for a test drive and simulate your typical driving conditions to assess how the range performs under different scenarios.
Ensure you can easily charge the car, either at home or at public charging stations, and that the charging port and cables are in good condition.
2. Warranty and Service History:
Check if the used EV is still covered under the manufacturer’s warranty, especially for the battery.
Obtain the car’s service records to understand how it has been maintained and if there are any known issues.
3. Overall Condition:
Inspect the car’s interior and body for any signs of wear and tear, as this can indicate how well the car has been maintained.
Check the condition of the tires and brakes, as these are wearing components.
Listen for any unusual knocking sounds, as the weight of the battery can accelerate wear on suspension and steering parts.
4. Other Considerations:
Consider your charging needs and whether you have access to home charging or public charging stations.
You can also visit EVNext showrooms which is a dedicated electric vehicle used car showroom under SIME Motor Group.
