[ECO]Checking the History of an Electric Vehicle Before Purchase

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Checking the History of an Electric Vehicle Before Purchase

We’re seeing more electric vehicles (EVs) on the roads now. These cars being a cleaner, more efficient alternative to traditional combustion engine motors makes them an attractive option. Add to that,

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and it’s clear electric will be powering our vehicles in the future. 

However, buying a second-hand EV isn’t as straightforward as picking any model that fits your budget. Unlike combustion engine cars, EVs rely on complex battery systems and high-tech electronics that must be carefully checked over. 

To avoid unexpected costs and ensure you’re getting a reliable vehicle, you need to thoroughly check an EV’s history before committing to the purchase. 

What to look for

• Battery health

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, showing the remaining battery capacity as a percentage of its original state. If the SOH is significantly below 80%, the battery may have reduced range and efficiency. 

To see if there’s an unusual drop in battery capacity, compare the reported mileage with the expected range. Also, check whether the battery is still under warranty, as some manufacturers

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• Charging history

Understanding how the previous owner charged the EV is important too. Frequent use of rapid chargers, while convenient, accelerates battery wear compared to slower home or destination charging. 

To get this information, ask for evidence of charging habits, such as service records or app data from connected vehicles. A well-maintained battery with balanced charging habits will last longer and perform more reliably.

• Accident history

This applies to any second-hand vehicle. However, with an EV, damage from a previous accident isn’t always visible at first glance, but it can have lasting effects on performance. 

Pay special attention to the battery pack, charging port, and high-voltage cables. A professional inspection can reveal hidden structural damage or electrical faults that might not appear in a standard vehicle check.

• Mileage vs. condition

Mileage affects EVs differently from petrol or diesel cars. A well-maintained EV with high mileage can still have a healthy battery, while a low-mileage EV with poor charging habits might show excessive degradation. Compare the mileage with the vehicle’s service history and SOH report to assess its true condition.

• Service records

Look for records of battery maintenance, software updates, and repairs. Regular check-ups at an authorised EV service centre indicate responsible ownership.

• Ownership history

The number of previous owners can tell you a lot about an EV’s usage. A single-owner vehicle used for personal transport is often better maintained than a fleet or rental car with multiple drivers. High-turnover ownership might indicate underlying issues.

How to check the history

A professional history check can uncover critical details about the EV’s past.

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on previous owners, accident reports, mileage discrepancies, and any outstanding finance. Investing in a history check can prevent expensive surprises down the line.

Also, an EV-specific inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly valuable. Standard visual checks should include tyre wear, suspension, and body condition, but an expert can assess high-voltage systems and battery health more accurately.

If possible, visit a dealership or contact the manufacturer to run a diagnostic check on the EV. This can reveal battery health insights, software issues, and any manufacturer recalls.

Take a test drive

One very useful way of finding out how the car has been treated in the past is by taking it for a spin. Pay attention to range fluctuations, acceleration smoothness, and braking performance. Listen for unusual noises and check the dashboard for warning lights. Also, test the charging process to ensure the vehicle connects properly to different charger types.

Making a decision

Gather all the information from history checks, inspections, and test drives. If the battery shows significant degradation or there’s evidence of major repairs, reconsider whether the

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Use any findings to negotiate a fair price. If the battery has lost capacity or repairs are needed, factor these into your offer. A detailed history check gives you leverage in price discussions.

If anything raises serious concerns, be prepared to walk away. Buying an EV should be a decision you make with confidence. 

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