Should you buy a used electric car? 5 things you need to know
The market for used cars in the United States is around three times larger than the market for brand new cars. And while many EVs have been on the market for some time (with new models being added every day), there is a decent range of pre-owned EVs to choose from. It’s true that there aren’t many differences between shopping for a used electric vehicle and a used gas-powered car, but there are a few peculiarities unique to EVs that you should be aware of. Electric vehicles need a different mindset than conventional gas or diesel cars, but they may be a great investment if you do your research. Should you buy a used electric car? Find out here!
Should you buy a used electric car? Here’s why. As with any other purchase, doing some preliminary research may help you settle on the best option. Here are some considerations to keep in mind while shopping for a used electric vehicle. When going automobile shopping, one must always consider whether to get a used or new vehicle. The same holds true if you’re considering purchasing an electric vehicle. Should you buy a used electric car? It’s totally up to you. We’re all different and have different circumstances. If you’re having trouble deciding, maybe this manual might help.
1. Think About Where You Can Find Chargers
Consider charging options carefully before purchasing your first electric vehicle. It takes time to “load up” an electric vehicle, and charging stations aren’t exactly ubiquitous. If you have a garage or a driveway, it will be much more convenient to use an electric vehicle (EV) since you can drive it all day and then just plug it in at night, as you would a cell phone. And you may leave with a full “tank” in the morning!
Level 1 chargers (using 120-volt electricity) are suitable for plug-in hybrids that utilize battery power in addition to gasoline, but if you buy a completely electric car, you will need a level 2 charger (using 220-volt energy, generally using a dryer plug) at home. Planning ahead to ensure that level 3 quick-charging stations are accessible at appropriate intervals throughout your normal commute routes is essential if you do not have access to a charging station at your house.
2. Inquire About Prior Repairs
Even while electric cars need far less upkeep than their gasoline-powered counterparts, they still have moving parts like wheels and tires, and brakes that eventually wear out and need to be replaced. As a result, it is still recommended that you inquire with the prior owner or the dealer about the vehicle’s service and maintenance records. Before buying a secondhand electric vehicle, check to see that all recalls and software updates have been completed.
3. Get a Detailed Report on Battery Health
Battery failure might be uncommon, but it can happen – and when it occurs, it can be costly. You want to know that the secondhand EV you are contemplating has a good battery – or a new one. A dealer or manufacturer-authorized technician should be able to put in the necessary diagnostic equipment and give you a full report on the condition of your battery. The vehicle itself may also be able to offer you with predicted range on a full charge and battery health reports under one of its menus.
It’s a huge plus if the vendor provides receipts or other proof that the battery has been changed. Someone before you spent the time and money to have significant work done, and they gave you the improved batteries as a thank you. CarFax or AutoCheck may have recorded battery replacement or servicing if the dealer or seller does not. Getting one of these reports is a smart idea since it will provide you more insight into the vehicle’s condition and history, which will, in turn, give you a better idea of how much the car is really worth.
4. See How Much of Your Battery’s Warranty Is Left
Yes, the topic of batteries hasn’t changed. However, I bring you wonderful news. The warranties offered by manufacturers on their batteries are often far longer than those offered on the vehicles themselves, typically covering at least eight years or 100,000 miles. The battery, the costliest part of a secondhand electric vehicle, may still be covered by the manufacturer’s guarantee.
Nonetheless, it’s important that you study the tiniest print. Ensure that the battery’s warranty may be passed on to new owners. It is also important to research the warranty terms for the year model you are considering purchasing. The easiest approach to authenticate the warranty is to call the automaker’s customer service department using the vehicle identification number (VIN) – a 17-digit number in multiple locations on the car, and any dealer or former owner will be able to offer it to you. The customer service staff can inform you when the warranty expires and if it is transferrable.
5. Think About Your Actual Range Requirements
The most up-to-date types of electric cars are vast improvements over even last year’s models in terms of range and economy. So, if you’re contemplating an electric car that is a few years old, make sure you properly understand your driving patterns – and precisely how much range you need.
The effects of this are twofold. You may be able to squeeze close to 400 miles of range out of a used electric car, but you’ll be paying a lot more than you would for a brand-new vehicle, and the next model year’s model will have even more range. If your primary use for your electric vehicle is commuting and you have access to a level 2 charger at home or at work, you may find that a range of a little over 100 miles is more than enough. That also gives up a large variety of alternatives to automobiles and pricing ranges to examine. While greater range is always desirable, remember that for longer travels, you may still hire a vehicle — and still save money in the long run.
conclusion
Should you buy a used electric car? We’ll let you know. While new EVs get the lion’s share of subsidies, you may be able to get a discount on power during off-peak hours or access a regional incentive if you purchase a used EV. You may get a simple list of available EVs in your area by using the GreenCars incentive tool, which allows you to choose your desired EV (along with its model year) and location. The pace at which an electric car may be charged varies greatly depending on factors such as its age and electric design.
Should you buy a used electric car? If you’re thinking about buying a used electric car, I’d say go for it. On a level 2 home charger, older EVs could only charge at 6 or 7 kW, while newer, more costly versions may charge at double that pace or more. Some of the first EVs could charge at 50 kW on a level 3 charger, while the most recent high-end EVs can charge at 350 kW (assuming you can locate a charger strong enough). If you plan to use public charging often, but just for brief periods of time, such as level 2 or level 3 chargers, a faster charging capacity may save you a lot of time. However, you may not worry about the charging speed if you intend to charge your iPhone overnight every night.