Wednesday, July 3, 2024
3 min read
Five Used Electric Cars Worth a Look, and What to Check
Five popular electric cars that are now easy to find used are the Nissan Leaf, Hyundai Kona Electric, Tesla Model 3, Volkswagen ID.4 and Ford Mustang Mach-E. They cover everything from a cheap town car to a roomy family SUV, and each has its own strengths and things to check.
Used electric cars have become much more affordable as early models have depreciated. Battery size, and so range, varies between versions of the same car, so always check the exact specification of the one you are looking at.
Which used electric cars are worth considering?
Nissan Leaf
One of the first mass-market EVs and often the cheapest way into electric motoring. It is easy to drive and its e-Pedal lets you drive mostly with one pedal. Older Leafs have smaller batteries and no active battery cooling, so range can be limited and rapid charging slows on long trips. Best as a local or commuting car.
Hyundai Kona Electric
A compact SUV with a strong reputation for efficiency. Larger-battery versions offer a long real-world range for the size of car. A newer, larger Kona Electric replaced the original, so check which generation you are buying.
Tesla Model 3
A five-seat saloon with quick charging, long range on most versions and frequent over-the-air software updates. Tesla's Supercharger network is a big advantage on long journeys. Ride comfort and build quality vary by year, so a careful inspection is worthwhile. Our Model 3 vs Polestar 2 guide compares it with a close rival.
Volkswagen ID.4
A family SUV with a big boot, a comfortable ride and plenty of rear space. Early cars had some software niggles that later updates improved, so check the car's software has been kept up to date.
Ford Mustang Mach-E
A sporty family SUV, available with rear-wheel or four-wheel drive and different battery sizes. It is quicker and more engaging to drive than many electric SUVs, with a practical cabin and boot.
What should I check on a used electric car?
Battery health. Ask for a state-of-health report. Our guide to checking used EV battery health explains how.
Battery warranty. Most makers cover the battery separately for longer than the rest of the car. Check what remains.
Charging. Test that it charges at home and on a rapid charger, and that the right cables are included.
Tyres and brakes. EVs are heavy, so tyres can wear faster. Brakes that are rarely used can corrode.
Servicing. Look for a service history. EVs still need regular checks.
Can I live with an EV in Barnsley?
For most people, yes, especially with home charging. There is a growing network of public chargers across Barnsley and South Yorkshire. Our guide to EV charging in Barnsley explains where to plug in.
Common questions
Do electric cars pay road tax?
Yes. Since April 2025, electric cars pay vehicle tax. See GOV.UK or our guide to EV road tax.
How far can a used electric car go on a charge?
It depends on the battery size, its health, the weather and how you drive. Expect less range in winter and at motorway speeds than in mild weather around town.
Is a used EV cheaper to run than petrol?
Usually, if you charge at home. Try our running cost calculator to compare.
Thinking about a used EV in Barnsley?
anycolourcar.com is based in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. Visit our EV hub, browse the cars in stock, or call sales on 01226 574410. For EV servicing, call our service centre on 01226 574321.
Updated October 2026.
