Used electric cars have become good value, and they have fewer moving parts to go wrong than petrol or diesel cars. The biggest question with any used EV is the condition of its battery, so that's where most of your checks should go.
Check the battery's health
- Ask for a battery health report. Many cars can show the battery's state of health (SoH) as a percentage, either on the dashboard or through a dealer's diagnostic check. Ask the seller or a dealer for it.
- Check the range. Charge the car to full and see what range it predicts, then compare it with the range when new. Some loss is normal with age; a very large loss is worth pricing into your offer.
- Watch it on a test drive. See how quickly the range figure drops.
Check the battery warranty and who owns the battery
- Many manufacturers give the battery a longer warranty than the rest of the car, often around eight years with a mileage limit. Check the dates and whether it transfers to you.
- Some older electric cars were sold with the battery on a separate lease, with monthly payments. Make sure the battery is owned outright, or that you understand and accept the lease before you buy.
Check the charging kit
- Make sure the charging cables are included: usually a public charging cable, and sometimes a cable for a domestic socket.
- Test the charge port, and if possible try both a standard and a rapid charger.
- Check the car's maximum charging speeds suit how you'll use it.
Other EV-specific checks
- Tyres: EVs are heavy and powerful, so tyres can wear faster.
- Brakes: regenerative braking means the brakes are used less and can corrode; look at the MOT history for brake advisories.
- Software updates: ask whether the car is up to date.
- Vehicle tax: since April 2025 electric cars pay vehicle tax like other cars. Check the cost with a road tax check.
The history checks still matter
Electric cars are just as likely to have outstanding finance or a write-off record as any other car. Many used EVs were on finance or lease when new. Run a history check, read the MOT advisories and compare the VIN with the V5C.
Key points
- Get the battery state of health and check the real range.
- Check the battery warranty and make sure the battery isn't on a separate lease.
- Make sure the charging cables are included. More in our guide on whether to buy an electric car.