Summary
- When buying a used electric vehicle, pay attention to essential things like the powertrain, bodywork, matching numbers, and maintenance history
- Check battery degradation when buying a used EV as it is the most critical component and can impact ownership experience and cost
- Consider how you will charge your EV, where you will charge it, and how often based on your daily mileage needs
- Heat pumps in EVs can improve driving range in cold weather; make sure the in-car electronics and software are up to date and working properly
- Used EVs depreciate quickly, but buying used is a wiser financial decision; check for service records and recalls before making a purchase
Article
Battery Pack: Degradation, Range, Warranty & More
When buying a used electric vehicle, one of the most critical components to check is the battery pack. Batteries degrade over time, so it’s essential to determine how much degradation the used EV has experienced. This can be done by charging the battery to 100% capacity and comparing the estimated range to the original EPA rating. If the range is significantly lower, it indicates significant degradation. It’s best to look for a used EV with little to moderate degradation, as a health level of 70% or less means the battery should be replaced. Additionally, it’s beneficial to ask if the battery pack has been replaced, check if it is still covered by warranty, and ensure the warranty is transferable.
Charging: How, Where, How Often
Another important consideration when buying a used electric vehicle is how and where you will charge it, as well as how often. The charging capabilities of the EV, including Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 chargers, should be taken into account based on your daily driving needs. It’s crucial to ensure that the used EV comes with working charging cables and to verify if the seller includes the necessary Level 1 charging cord. The availability of rebates for EV charging equipment at local, state, and federal levels should also be considered to help offset costs.
Heat Pump: You Won’t Regret Having One
Having a heat pump in an electric vehicle can significantly improve driving range, especially in colder weather. While many older EVs do not come equipped with heat pumps, newer models offer this feature as standard or optional. It’s important to consider the benefits of a heat pump when buying a used electric vehicle, as it can impact energy efficiency and comfort during winter months.
In-Car Electronics & Software: Make Sure Everything Works and Is Up To Date
Software plays a crucial role in electric vehicles, and ensuring that the in-car electronics and software are working correctly and up to date is essential. Avoiding older models with obsolete technology and unreliable software can help prevent potential issues down the line. Choosing an EV that offers over-the-air software updates is also beneficial for ongoing maintenance and improvements.
Depreciation: You Can’t Avoid It, But Buying Used Is Wiser
While all cars depreciate, electric vehicles tend to lose value more quickly than traditional gas-powered cars. Purchasing a used EV can help mitigate initial depreciation costs, but it’s wise to consider models with slower depreciation rates. Checking the 5-year depreciation rates for different EV models can help inform your decision on which used electric vehicle to buy.
Service & Maintenance: Always Ask For Records
Before purchasing a used electric vehicle, it’s crucial to review the service history and maintenance records. While EVs require less maintenance than gas-powered vehicles, it’s still important to check for any recalls, ensure that essential maintenance has been performed, and verify the condition of components like tires and brakes. Prioritizing documentation over verbal assurances from the seller can help ensure a smooth purchasing process.
Conclusion: If It Ticks Many Boxes, You Should Probably Go For It
In conclusion, buying a pre-owned electric vehicle can be a smart financial decision, especially if the previous owner maintained it well. Used EVs offer a more affordable option for those looking to transition to electric vehicles, and potential tax rebates can further reduce costs. By considering factors such as battery degradation, charging capabilities, heat pumps, software updates, depreciation rates, and service records, buyers can make an informed decision when purchasing a used electric vehicle. Ultimately, if a used EV meets your needs and requirements, it can be a reliable and cost-effective transportation option.
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