Does Buying a Used EV Make Sense?

With used car EV prices plummeting more than their ICE counterparts, picking up one now can be a great option. But before you make the move, read our guide to see if it makes sense for you:

Pros of Buying a Used EV

✅ Lower Cost – Electric vehicles depreciate faster than gas cars, so you can find a great deal.
✅ Fewer Moving Parts – EVs have less wear and tear since they don’t have complex engines or transmissions.
✅ Lower Maintenance – No oil changes, fewer brake replacements, and fewer mechanical failures.
✅ Tax Incentives – Some used EVs qualify for up to $4,000 in federal tax credits (if under $25,000).

Cons of Buying a Used EV

⚠️ Battery Degradation – Older electric vehicles lose range over time; check the battery health before buying.
⚠️ Limited Range – Early models may have much shorter ranges than newer EVs.
⚠️ Outdated Tech – Newer EVs have better software, faster charging, and longer-lasting batteries.
⚠️ Charging Speed & Availability – Older EVs may not support high-speed charging or the latest networks.

Best Used EVs to Buy

🚗 Tesla Model 3 (2018-2022) – Solid range, OTA updates, good charging network.
🚗 Chevy Bolt EV (2019-2023) – Affordable with decent range (~250 miles).
🚗 Hyundai Kona EV (2019-2022) – Reliable, efficient, and good warranty.
🚗 Nissan Leaf (2018-2022) – Cheap but lower range unless you get the 62kWh version.

When Buying a Used EV Makes Sense

✔️ You mostly drive locally and don’t need long road-trip range.
✔️ You have easy access to charging at home or work.
✔️ You’re getting a good deal with a healthy battery (check with a scan or warranty).
✔️ The car qualifies for tax incentives to bring the cost down.

THE TAKEAWAY

Buying a used EV can be a great deal but it’s important to carefully evaluate your use case before pulling the plug.

Sources: EV Car Answers Editors, ChatGPT, Tesla