What Should You Consider When Buying a Used Electric Car?

When it comes to purchasing a pre-owned electric vehicle, there are several key factors to keep in mind. Here are the most crucial points to consider.

Battery Condition

It's a given that batteries will lose some of their capacity over time. So, when buying a used electric car, the question isn't whether the battery's capacity has decreased, but by how much.

The extent of degradation can vary based on the model, age, and mileage of the car. However, generally speaking, a battery capacity above 90% is still considered good, while lower values are typical for vehicles with high mileage or frequent fast charging. You can easily check the battery's capacity at a workshop, with the ADAC, various service providers, or using an OBD2 diagnostic device.

Since the battery is the lifeblood of an electric car, it's important to factor its condition into your purchasing decision. Keep in mind that replacing batteries can be expensive, and some models don't have new batteries available.

Battery Tests

The following providers can conduct independent battery tests to determine the capacity of your battery:

Dekra Aviloo & Adac

Battery Warranty

Many manufacturers offer warranties on their batteries that last for several years or hundreds of thousands of kilometers. These warranties are particularly important for vehicles known to have faulty battery cells, as the cost of replacing defective cells or an entire battery can be quite steep. When buying a used car, compare the vehicle's mileage and age with the terms of the warranty. If the warranty has expired, this should be reflected in a lower asking price.

Maintenance History

Just like with any vehicle, it's important to thoroughly check the maintenance history of an electric car. Ensure that the car has been serviced regularly and that any necessary repairs have been made. Particularly, any outstanding service actions and recalls should be addressed prior to purchase. As electric vehicles are still a relatively new category, technical issues or areas for improvement are often discovered, which can be rectified through service actions.

Brakes

Since electric cars use their brakes less frequently, they tend to corrode more quickly. Therefore, it's advisable to inspect the condition of the brakes during a test drive.