There’s no doubt that electric cars are becoming increasingly popular. However, rather than paying the premium for a brand-new model, buying a used electric vehicle could save you thousands.
Here’s why a second-hand electric car could be a smart purchase and what you should check before buying one.
For more expert buying advice, visit our valuation guidance hub, where you’ll find practical guides covering everything from electric vehicles to buying, selling and maintaining your car.
Cheaper Than Buying New
Buying a second-hand electric car instead of a brand-new one simply makes financial sense. With electric vehicles continuing to grow in popularity, the price of a new model can easily exceed £17,000, with many costing considerably more.
The initial purchase price of a new electric car remains high and, with demand still exceeding supply for many models, prices are likely to remain strong. Choosing a used electric vehicle allows you to enjoy the benefits of electric motoring while avoiding the steep depreciation that affects new cars.
Say Goodbye to Fuel Costs
Fuel prices continue to fluctuate, and running costs remain a major concern for many motorists. Charging an electric vehicle is generally much cheaper than filling up with petrol or diesel, particularly if you can charge at home on an off-peak electricity tariff.
With the UK’s transition towards zero-emission vehicles continuing, switching to a used electric car now could help future-proof your motoring while significantly reducing your day-to-day running costs.
Battery Maintenance Is Surprisingly Simple
Used electric vehicles are generally inexpensive to maintain. With far fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel cars, there’s no need to worry about timing belts, exhaust systems or many of the components that commonly wear out on conventional vehicles.
Electric cars are also designed to protect their battery packs through sophisticated battery management systems, meaning they typically require very little maintenance. Lower servicing costs can also help reduce depreciation over time, making used EVs an attractive long-term option.
Things to Check Before Buying a Used Electric Vehicle
While there are plenty of benefits, there are also a few important checks to make before committing to a purchase.
Check the Driving Range
Before buying any used electric vehicle, make sure its range suits your lifestyle.
Older electric cars often offer around 90 to 120 miles on a full charge, while newer long-range models can comfortably exceed 250 miles. Premium models can achieve well over 350 miles under ideal conditions.
Think about your typical journeys and choose a vehicle that comfortably meets your daily driving needs.
Assess Battery Health
The battery is by far the most expensive component in an electric vehicle, so checking its condition is essential.
Battery degradation happens gradually over time, but excessive wear or damage can significantly reduce range and performance. If possible, ask for a battery health report or diagnostic certificate before purchasing.
A healthy battery can make all the difference when buying a used EV.
Check the Warranty
If you’re buying from a dealership, always ask about the remaining manufacturer warranty, particularly for the battery.
Many manufacturers provide battery warranties of around eight years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Depending on the vehicle’s age, some of this cover may still remain.
Knowing exactly what’s included can provide valuable peace of mind.
You can also read our article on whether diesel vehicles are bucking the electric revolution to compare how changing market demand is affecting different fuel types.
Where Can You Buy a Used Electric Vehicle?
There are plenty of places to buy a used electric vehicle, including franchised dealerships, independent dealers and private sellers.
Buying through a dealership often provides additional reassurance, as vehicles are typically inspected before sale and may include a warranty or other consumer protections.
Private sales can sometimes offer lower prices, but you’ll need to carry out more thorough checks yourself before purchasing.
If you’re researching electric vehicles, you may also find our guide to government electric car grants and incentives useful, as it explains how support for EV buyers has changed over time.
If you’re considering upgrading to an electric vehicle, it’s worth finding out how much your current car is worth first. Sell your existing vehicle quickly by comparing offers from trusted UK buyers using Jamjar’s free car valuation service.