Buying a Used Electric Car: Common Worries and How to Solve Them

The main worries about buying a used electric car are battery health, charging, depreciation and not knowing what to check. Each one can be dealt with: get a battery health report, work out where you will charge before you buy, buy at the right price, and ask the seller the right questions.

Will the battery be worn out?

This is the most common concern. All batteries lose some capacity over time, but how much depends on the car, its age, the climate and how it has been charged. Plenty of used electric cars still have most of their original capacity.

What to do:

• Ask for a battery health report, sometimes shown as state of health. Many dealers and specialist garages can produce one.

• Check whether any of the manufacturer's battery warranty remains, and what it covers. Terms vary by brand, so read the warranty booklet or ask the manufacturer.

• Compare the range shown on a full charge with what you would expect for that model, allowing for the weather.

Our guide to checking used EV battery health goes into more detail.

Where will I charge it?

Charging is easiest if you have off-road parking and can fit a home charger. If you cannot, it is still possible to run an electric car, but it takes more planning.

What to do:

• Work out your usual weekly mileage. Many drivers need far less range than they think.

• Look at charging apps for public chargers near your home and work before you commit.

• If you rely on public charging, factor its cost into your budget, as it is usually dearer than charging at home.

For local options, see EV charging in Barnsley and South Yorkshire.

Will it lose value quickly?

Many electric cars lost value faster than petrol and diesel cars in their first few years, partly because technology moved on quickly and new car prices changed. For a used buyer, that early drop has often already happened, which is part of what makes a used electric car good value.

What to do:

• Compare prices for the same model, age and mileage before you buy.

• Choose a model with a good range for its age and a battery in good health, as these sell more easily later.

• Read our guide to whether electric cars hold their value.

Is there enough choice?

The used market for electric cars has grown a lot, and there are now options from small city cars to large family SUVs. You may still need to be flexible on colour or trim to get the right battery size and range.

I do not know what to look for. Where do I start?

You do not need to be an expert. Focus on a few things:

• Battery health and the remaining battery warranty.

• Charging: does the car come with its charging cable, and does the charging port work on both AC and, if fitted, rapid DC charging?

• Service history and any outstanding recalls or software updates.

• Tyres and brakes. Electric cars are heavy and can wear tyres faster, while brakes can corrode if they are rarely used.

• A test drive, with the heater on, so you can see how quickly the range figure drops.

Common questions

Is a used electric car cheaper to run than petrol?

It can be, especially if you charge at home on a suitable tariff. The saving is smaller if you rely mostly on public rapid chargers. Our cost comparison calculator lets you compare.

Do used electric cars need servicing?

Yes. There is no oil to change, but brakes, tyres, suspension, cabin filters, coolant and the 12-volt battery all still need checking. Our service centre works on electric and hybrid cars.

Should I buy a hybrid instead?

If you cannot charge at home and do a lot of long journeys, a hybrid may suit you better. Our guide to hybrid or electric explains the differences.

Talk to us about a used electric car

anycolourcar.com is based in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. Browse our cars in stock, visit our EV hub, or call our sales team on 01226 574410.

Updated October 2026.