As the shift towards sustainable transport continues, buying a used electric vehicle (EV) has become an increasingly popular option for eco-conscious consumers looking to reduce their carbon footprint while keeping costs down. However, purchasing a used EV requires careful consideration, as factors such as battery health, range, and overall vehicle condition can vary significantly between models and individual vehicles.
In 2025, there are a number of popular used EVs on the market, such as the Nissan Leaf and BMW i3, both of which are well-regarded for their reliability and affordability. To ensure you make the best possible purchase, it’s crucial to do your homework. What’s important when buying a second hand EV? Is it different from buying a new EV? This checklist will guide you through the key considerations helping you to make an informed purchasing decision.
1. Battery Health
The battery is arguably the most important component of an EV, as it directly impacts both performance and range. For used EVs, the condition of the battery is even more crucial, as older batteries may have undergone significant wear and tear. For example, a well-maintained vehicle will have a more reliable battery than one that’s been poorly charged and discharged over time. ClearWatt’s battery health test uses real-time data to offer a clear picture of the battery’s current performance, range, and overall health, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what you're purchasing or assessing in your existing EV.
2. Real-World Range and Charging Data
While manufacturers provide official range figures for their vehicles, real-world performance for brand new EVs can differ by up to 40%. As the vehicle ages, these discrepancies become even larger. This is because battery degradation occurs as the vehicle gets older, meaning the gap between the official figures and the current real world performance grows over time. Seemingly, even vehicles from the same model and make may have different ranges based on how they’ve been used - and not necessarily based on their age or mileage.
3. Service and Maintenance History
While EVs generally require less maintenance than traditional petrol or diesel vehicles, it's still important to check the service history of the car you’re considering. Some EV models are known for their longevity and minimal maintenance requirements, while others may have suffered issues if not properly cared for. Review the vehicle’s service records to ensure it has received regular check-ups and that any faults, such as issues with the battery management system or motor, have been addressed.
4. Charging Compatibility
When buying a used EV, ensure it's compatible with your local charging infrastructure. Different models use different connectors, so verify that your EV supports the standard charging points in your area.
For example, most Nissan Leafs use Type 2 connectors for AC charging, but older models may have a Type 1 connector, which have fewer compatible charge points in the UK. In such cases, an adapter may be needed. EV Check Plus Report can provide you with charging compatibility information about all EVs in the UK.
5. Warranty Coverage
One of the benefits of buying a used EV is that many still come with remaining manufacturer warranty coverage for vehicles, in addition to the battery warranty. Manufacturers typically offer battery warranties that last 8 to 10 years or 100,000 miles and the manufacturer electric vehicle warranty will last between 3 years/36,000 miles and 5 years/60,000 miles. Warranty coverage on a used EV can lower insurance premiums, as it reduces repair risks, especially for the battery and powertrain. Active warranties signal good condition, potentially earning discounts from insurers. Without warranties, premiums may rise due to higher repair costs, particularly for older models. Third-party warranties can help keep premiums lower after the manufacturer’s warranty expires. If the vehicle is out-of-warranty, you may want to consider purchasing a third-party warranty that covers essential parts, particularly the battery. Find out more about EV warranties on our website.
6. Battery Leasing vs. Ownership
Certain older EV models, for instance some of the Renault Zoes, operate with a battery leasing model, which means the battery is not included in the car's purchase price and is instead leased separately. This can result in an ongoing monthly fee for the battery. When considering purchasing a used EV, be sure to confirm whether the vehicle includes a battery lease agreement and factor in the additional monthly costs. Understanding this arrangement before purchasing will help you avoid any unexpected fees.
7. Software Updates and Features
EVs rely on sophisticated software to optimise performance, manage energy consumption, and enhance the driving experience. It’s important to check whether the used EV you’re interested in has the latest software updates installed and if all the car’s features are working correctly.
8. Test Drive and Performance Evaluation
A test drive is essential when buying any used vehicle, and EVs are no exception. During the test drive, pay close attention to how the car accelerates, handles, and brakes. Listen for any unusual sounds, particularly from the motor or suspension, as these may signal underlying issues. A thorough test drive under different conditions will help you evaluate the car's overall condition and performance.
9. Clear Documentation and Transparency
Transparency is key when buying a used vehicle. Make sure the seller provides clear and comprehensive documentation regarding the vehicle’s history, previous owners, service records, and any repairs or upgrades. ClearWatt’s EV Check Plus is an example of a tool that provides easy-to-understand, data-rich EV reports, ensuring that you have all the relevant information to make an informed decision. A seller who is willing to share these details is a good sign of reliability and transparency.Lastly, be mindful of potential tax changes too, as they may affect how EVs are taxed, potentially influencing long-term costs for owners. Make sure to understand how recent changes in vehicle tax regulations in your region could impact your purchase. Changes are happening in April 2025 in the UK, to learn more, read this article.
10. Outstanding finance
Not a problem specific to electric vehicles, but when buying any used car it is crucial to check that it doesn’t have outstanding finance or any other skeletons in the closet. By some estimates, the UK Used Car Finance Market Insight Report indicates around 30% of all used cars in the UK do have outstanding finance.. By doing your due diligence, you can drive away with confidence, knowing your EV is truly yours.
Conclusion
Buying a used EV in 2025 can be a smart and eco-friendly decision, but it’s essential to approach the process with caution and due diligence. By leveraging tools like ClearWatt’s EV Check Plus and Battery Health Testing, you can ensure that you're making an informed purchase based on accurate, real-time data. When considering buying a used EV, this checklist will help you evaluate the key factors before committing to a purchase. With the right information, you can confidently buy a used EV that suits your needs and supports your sustainable lifestyle.
Looking to learn more about your future EV perspective? Check out our EV Check PlusEV Check Plus for a comprehensive EV Pre-purchase Report; use this tool to compare models and make a confident decision.
