Buying routes
Buying a used EV: the honest checklist
What to actually check before buying a used electric car in the UK — battery health, charging history, warranty, software, and the questions dealers won't volunteer.
Key takeaways
- Battery health (State of Health) is the single most important thing to check.
- Falling EV prices make used bargains real — but check why a car is cheap.
- Most EV batteries are warrantied for around 8 years / 100,000 miles — check what's left.
- Confirm the car comes with the right cables and supports the charging speeds you need.
Sharp falls in EV prices have made used electric cars genuinely good value — but a used EV needs different checks from a used petrol car. Here's the honest checklist.
1. Battery health (the big one)
The battery is the most expensive component, and its condition matters more than mileage. Look at State of Health (SoH) — the battery's current capacity versus when new.
- Ask the seller for a battery health check or SoH reading.
- A modest decline (a few percent) over several years is normal.
- Be wary of significant degradation, or a seller who can't or won't provide a figure.
2. Remaining battery warranty
Most manufacturers warrant the battery for around 8 years or 100,000 miles, typically guaranteeing it stays above ~70% capacity. Check:
- How much warranty is left (date and mileage).
- Whether it transfers to you as the new owner (usually yes).
- What exactly is covered.
A car with several years of battery warranty remaining carries far less risk.
3. Charging capability and cables
EVs differ in how fast they charge and what they include:
- Confirm the maximum rapid-charging speed — important for long trips.
- Check it supports a home charger at the speed you'll use.
- Make sure the cables are included (a Type 2 cable and ideally a granny/3-pin cable) — replacements are pricey.
If you won't have home charging, revisit Owning an EV without a driveway.
4. Software, updates, and features
- Check the infotainment and any subscription features — some manufacturers lock features behind ongoing fees, and not all transfer.
- Confirm the car is on current software and any safety recalls are done.
5. The usual used-car due diligence
Don't forget the basics that apply to any car: full service history, HPI/finance check, MOT history, tyre condition (EVs can wear tyres faster), and signs of accident damage.
6. Why is it cheap?
If a used EV looks like a steal, ask why. Sometimes it's just the falling market (good for you). Sometimes it's poor battery health, an unpopular older model with short range, or expensive locked features. Cheap isn't always a bargain.
The bottom line
A used EV can be excellent value in today's market, provided you verify battery health and remaining warranty, and confirm it charges the way you need. Run the running costs with our calculator, and if you're still weighing whether an EV suits you at all, start with Should I go electric?.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check the battery health of a used EV?
Ask for the State of Health (SoH) reading, which shows current capacity versus new. Many dealers can run a battery health check; some cars display it in their menus. Treat a seller who won't provide it with caution.
How long do EV batteries last?
Most are warrantied for around 8 years or 100,000 miles and commonly last well beyond that with gradual capacity loss. Check how much warranty remains and whether it transfers to you.
Are used electric cars good value in the UK?
Often yes — falling EV prices have made used examples noticeably cheaper. Just verify battery health, remaining warranty, and that the car charges at the speeds you need before buying.