Should You Buy a Used Electric Vehicle? A Comprehensive Guide
As EV adoption soars, the used-electric-vehicle (EV) market is booming—offering steep savings over new-car sticker prices without skimping on modern tech. But buying a pre-owned EV brings unique considerations—from battery state-of-health to charging infrastructure. In this guide, you’ll learn how to evaluate a used EV’s true cost and reliability, match range to your needs, and even protect your investment with an extended warranty.
1. Lower Depreciation, Higher Value
EVs tend to lose value faster in their first few years. A three-year-old model can cost 30–40% less than new, yet deliver features like Autopilot, large touchscreens, and premium trims at a fraction of the price. Plus, electricity typically costs $0.10–$0.15 per mile, about half the cost of gasoline—see the FuelEconomy.gov electricity cost guide.
2. Prioritize Battery Health
Your EV’s battery is its most expensive component. Before you buy:
- Check State-of-Health (SoH): Use dealer diagnostics or a home OBD-II adapter; look for ≥ 70–80% capacity remaining.
- Review Remaining OEM Warranty: Most batteries carry an 8 year/100 k mi warranty—note transferability rules.
- Verify Range Claims: Compare EPA-rated range to real-world figures under temperate conditions.
Consumer Reports explains how to assess used-EV battery health in depth.
3. Match Range & Charging to Your Lifestyle
- Commuters: A 150 mi range covers daily driving comfortably.
- Road-trippers: Seek 250+ mi models or tap fast-charging networks like Electrify America.
- Home Charging: Installing a Level 2 charger (~ 25–30 mi/hr) replenishes your pack overnight.
For an overview of EV charging options, see the DOE’s EV basics PDF.
4. Calculate Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)
When comparing to a gas car, include:
| Category | Used EV | Used Gas Vehicle |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | $0.10–$0.15/mile (electric) | $0.12–$0.25/mile (gas) |
| Maintenance | Lower (no oil/filter changes) | Higher (oil, filters, belts) |
| Insurance | ~ 5–10% higher premiums | Standard rates |
| Incentives | Up to $4,000 used-EV credit | N/A |
State and federal incentives vary—see the DOE’s incentives list for details.
5. Inspect History & Condition
- Vehicle History Report: Use CARFAX or AutoCheck to spot accidents or branding.
- Service Records: Ensure regular coolant, brake, and high-voltage system checks.
- Pre-Purchase EV Inspection: Hire an EV-savvy tech to test charger ports, brakes, suspension, and software updates.
6. Leverage Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Programs
OEM CPO EVs often include:
- Extended Battery & Drivetrain Warranty beyond the original term
- 24/7 Roadside Assistance and complimentary service plans
- Inspections by Factory-Trained Technicians
Check manufacturers’ CPO portals—for example:
7. Protect Your Investment with an Extended Warranty
Even under factory coverage, battery or inverter repairs can run $5,000–$8,000. A vehicle service contract (VSC) can:
- Cover high-cost components (battery modules, electric motors, inverters)
- Include perks like roadside assistance and rental-car reimbursement
- Be tailored to EVs
Learn more about VSC basics and why you need one on or blog here: What Is a Vehicle Service Contract and Why Do You Need One?
Conclusion
A used EV can deliver significant savings, cutting-edge features, and low operating costs—but demands extra diligence. By verifying battery health, matching range and charging to your lifestyle, calculating true ownership costs, and securing an extended warranty, you’ll drive away in your next electric vehicle with confidence and peace of mind.
— Julie Kamada