More and more Canadians are buying used electric vehicles because they are a great way to save money on gas while travelling without emitting any pollutants. While buying a used car in Canada can be quite appealing nowadays, some Canadian EV buyers are still sceptical about the battery technology of used EVs. Buying a used electric vehicle is not the same as buying a used gas-powered vehicle. Because EVs are so dependent on their batteries and software, it may be necessary to think differently when purchasing a used electric car. Especially if you are new to EVs, finding the best used electric vehicle can be an overwhelming task.
In addition to the standard used car self-inspection checklist that applies to all used cars, there are a few extra factors to consider before buying a used electric vehicle. In this article, we will take a look at the 10 essential tips that can help you buy the best used electric vehicles that fit your lifestyle and budget in Canada.
Investigate the vehicle’s maintenance history
Before proceeding with the transaction, you should inspect the EV’s car history report in the same way you would any used vehicle. Any prior write-offs, recalls by the manufacturer, or a seller/dealership attempting to divert you away from examining the EV’s service history report are all red signals. However, don’t be surprised if the EV hasn’t had much previous maintenance history. Electric vehicles require less maintenance compared to their gasoline-powered counterparts.
Determine the battery range required
Over the past decade, the electric vehicle industry has expanded rapidly. Some early electric vehicles could only travel 160 kilometres on a single charge, but the Tesla Model 3 can now travel 423 kilometres on a single charge.
Most EV models today have a range of 200 to 400 km on a single charge. If you drive 60 kilometres or fewer per day, just like the majority of Canadians, you generally don’t need to be concerned about the range of a used EV. However, if you have a long commute or need to drive for several hours every day, you should consider purchasing an EV with a greater range.
You must establish the range that is necessary for your requirements before making the purchase. While 400 kilometres may appear to be ample, if you intend to use your EV for commuting, a used electric car with a range of 150 kilometres may be enough. Calculating how much range you truly need will save you money and help you narrow down your EV options.
Keep an eye on the battery’s condition
Regardless of how frequently they are used, lithium-ion batteries degrade with time. The battery age of a used electric car will affect its range. The lower the capacity of a battery, the less charge it can hold, and your battery range may suffer as a result. Don’t expect a used electric vehicle to have a 100% battery life report, but if you’re looking for a used electric car for commuting, a lower battery range shouldn’t be an issue.
When buying a used EV, just keep in mind that every EV’s battery will need to be replaced at some point throughout its lifespan. Fortunately, EV batteries should last between 10 and 20 years. However, when it comes time to replace one, the cost of replacing and installing an EV battery can go into the thousands of dollars. Therefore, the battery condition of a used EV is a crucial factor to consider.
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Check into battery warranties
When buying a used EV, battery degradation may be an issue. The good news is that all major automakers provide battery pack extended warranty coverage, so many used electric vehicles will still be insured.
In Canada, most EV’s battery guarantees last for 160,000 kilometres or eight years, whichever comes first. While not all warranties are transferable to succeeding owners, you can contact the manufacturer with the VIN to find out when the warranty expires and whether it is transferable.
Inquire about the service history
Although EVs require less maintenance than gasoline vehicles, we nonetheless recommend asking the dealer or the owner about maintenance history and service records.
Aside from periodic tyre rotations and windshield wiper replacements, electric vehicles require little maintenance and may only have a few receipts to verify. Typically, an EV’s brakes last much longer since they replenish the batteries by recovering otherwise lost electricity.
Understand used electric vehicles charging rates
The speed at which an EV charges depends on its make, model, and charging method. Electric vehicles may not always charge at the same rate, and larger battery packs take longer to charge. For example, the Nissan Leaf offers a 6.6-kW onboard charger as an optional extra on the base S trim level. Without this charger, Level 2 top-off can take twice as long.
You probably don’t need to worry about an EV’s charging rate if you’ll be charging it overnight from a home charger, and you may be able to save money by purchasing a less expensive used electric car. However, if you anticipate relying on fast charging while on the road or at work, make sure you purchase a used EV that charges quickly enough for your needs.
Think about your availability at EV charging stations
You’ll need a charging station whether you buy a new or used EV. You can use public chargers if your region allows it, or you can connect your EV straight to a power outlet, which will take much longer to charge. These are not practical options, though, and the charging time is longer. While public chargers aren’t as common as gas stations, you should think about whether you need one at home. If you must park your EV on the street or in an apartment garage, you will almost certainly be limited to public charging.
Examine All Charging Devices
When you’ve decided on an electric vehicle, be sure the seller includes all of the charging accessories you’ll need to charge it. Charging devices can be expensive. The average cost is between $300 and $600 in Canada. It’s possible that the previous owner misplaced it or left it at home when exchanging it for a new vehicle at a dealership. Make sure you check the charging accessories carefully to ensure that nothing is missing.
Take into account your driving style as well as the weather
When buying a used EV, it is vital to consider your driving style, as this will have a direct impact on your EV’s range. For example, accelerating slowly consumes less energy.
In addition, keep in mind that extreme cold or hot weather conditions have a negative impact on battery life. The recommended temperature range for electric-car batteries is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. For example, electric vehicle batteries are less effective and have a lower range during cold weather in Canada, where most provinces have a long winter. Furthermore, EVs are not the same as gas-powered vehicles; you cannot drive an EV if the battery is low. In other words, charging your EV takes time. This is a limitation for all EV owners, and it means you must plan your trips ahead of time.
Determine whether you are eligible for a used EV incentive
Taking used EV incentives into consideration may enable you to purchase the used EV you desire.
Some provinces offer tax rebates and monetary incentives to new and used EV buyers. For example, Ontario’s used electric vehicle incentive is $1,000 for a used electric car and $500 for a used plug-in hybrid. Before making your final decision, make sure you do your research and determine how much incentive you can receive.
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