As prices of new cars keep rising, including electric vehicles (EVs), more people are turning to second-hand options to save money. In the U.S., for example, the average price of a brand-new car is now close to $48,000, and it’s still climbing. Add global tariffs and economic uncertainty to the mix, and it’s no surprise that buyers are shifting their focus.
But there’s something even more interesting: used EV sales are growing even faster than new EVs. In May 2025 alone, used electric cars saw a massive 32.1% increase in sales compared to the same time last year. People are paying attention—but is buying a second-hand electric car a good idea?.
However, letsridendrive have gathered some helpful tips you need to consider before stepping out to get a used electric car. At the end of this analysis, you might have a change of mind as to whether you’d prefer a used EV or a brand-new EV.
1. You avoid the big price drop
New electric cars lose value quickly. Technology in EVs keeps improving every year—bigger batteries, longer range, and smarter features. That makes older models drop in value faster than regular petrol cars.
But here’s the good part: if you’re buying used, this depreciation benefits you. You can get a relatively new electric car, sometimes just a few years old, with low mileage and modern features, for much less than it cost new.
2. You can afford a newer car
Because EVs lose value fast, many used ones are newer models than you’d expect. 45% of used EVs available in May 2025 were made between 2023 and 2025. That means you could get a “like-new” car at a much lower price.
Used EVs are now only about $2,000 cheaper than similar petrol cars. But in many cases, over 40% of them are priced under $25,000, which is great for budget-conscious buyers.
3. Fewer repairs and maintenance costs
Electric vehicles don’t have as many moving parts as petrol cars. No engine oil, no spark plugs, no gearboxes. They also use a system called regenerative braking, which helps the brakes last longer.
This means you won’t have to worry as much about expensive repairs, and if you’re buying used, you can also feel more confident that the previous owner didn’t mess up too many things.
What you should watch out for
Even though used EVs come with many benefits, there are a few important things to look out for.
1. Battery Health
The number one concern for most people is the battery. Batteries in EVs are expensive to replace. However, in most countries (including the U.S.), EV batteries come with an 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty, and most of these warranties transfer to the next owner.
Still, it’s wise to check the battery’s condition before you buy. Some tools, like Recurrent Reports or CarMax’s battery range score, will show you how well the battery is holding up. You can also ask for a battery report using tools like Voltest or check the battery yourself during a test drive.
Tip: Take a photo of the dashboard at the start and end of your test drive. Compare how much battery was used versus the distance travelled.
2. Test the charging system
Try charging the EV at a fast-charging station (DC) and a regular one (Level 2). Make sure it works well with both. If it doesn’t, that might be a red flag. And if you ignore those flags, she’ll cheat on you.
3. Don’t forget the 12-Volt battery
Yes, electric cars still use the same type of small 12-volt battery used in petrol cars to power things like the radio, A/C, and lights. Make sure everything works, including Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, if the car supports them. If you notice any issues, ask the seller to replace the battery.
4. Look out for rust
Electric cars often use rust-resistant materials, but not all of them. Check under the car, around the wheels, and near the doors for rust, especially if the car came from a cold or rainy area.
5. Check if the car is “Connected”
Many EVs rely on internet connections for software updates and features like pre-heating the cabin before you get in. Test the car’s app (if it has one) and try locking or unlocking the doors remotely. This tells you if the car is still connected to the internet.
6. Examine the tyres
EVs are heavier and have instant torque, which can wear down tyres quickly. Check the tyre condition and ensure they’re wearing evenly. Uneven wear might mean the tyres haven’t been rotated often—a sign of poor maintenance.
7. Make sure all accessories are included
Used EVs should come with things like a home charger, key fobs, and even adapters (like vehicle-to-load ones). If the car came with these when it was new, you should get them included with your purchase.
Buying a used electric car is becoming a smarter option than ever, especially if you want something newer, affordable, and low-maintenance. The technology keeps improving, but older models are still very capable and reliable.
Just make sure you do your homework: check the battery health, test all the features, and confirm that everything works. With the right approach, you could be driving off with a tech-savvy, environmentally friendly ride at a fraction of the cost of a new car.
And who knows? That EV might just save you more money in the long run than you expect.
