A used car expert has given a vital tip that can help buyers avoid scams and future problems when buying a pre-owned electric vehicle.
Whilst motoring experts are currently divided over the Government’s measures to boost the sale of new EVs, Brits can easily pick up a bargain on the used car market, with many popular models being sold at a fraction of the cost they were new.
However, to avoid getting ripped off, Martin Miller from the used electric vehicle dealership EV Experts has partnered with MOTORS in order to recommend drivers ask the seller to charge the battery to reveal its full range.
He advised: “To check the car’s range, start by asking your dealer to fully charge the car. While it’s being charged, visit the online EV database and find the real-world range that the car should achieve.
“Once fully charged, the car’s actual range should come close to aligning with the real-world range listed on the EV database. Providing it is, reset the trip meter and take the car out for a test drive.”
Whilst vehicle manufacturers typically integrate measures such as cooling and pre-conditioning to make sure that EV batteries do not wear out at a fast rate, the expert still recommended that drivers make sure it is in good condition.
By charging the battery of the vehicle up to full, drivers will be able to see how much range it is capable of achieving, which may differ to the amount it was originally sold with.
Similarly, taking the model for a test drive can show potential buyers how quickly the range of the vehicle depreciates, with significant drops indicating faults with the battery.
Despite the cost of most electric cars falling dramatically, getting an EV battery replaced can be a particularly expensive experience.
In June 2024, the mechanic booking service BookMyGarage estimated that a replacement battery pack for would cost motorists an average of £7,235 before labour costs.
Nevertheless, if an electric car is kept in good condition, its battery will likely last from between 10 to 20 years without a serious drop in charge or faults.
