You have found a used EV at an attractive price. The fuel savings look compelling. The servicing bills will be lower. On the face of it, the numbers stack up.
But there are costs that do not appear in the listing. Some are one-off. Some are ongoing. All of them are worth knowing about before you commit not after.
The real savings
Used EVs do deliver genuine running cost savings. Charging at home particularly on an off-peak overnight tariff costs significantly less per mile than petrol.
Annual servicing runs at roughly half the cost of a comparable petrol car, because EVs have far fewer parts requiring attention. These are not marketing claims. They are consistent, well documented savings.
The costs that catch people out
Tyres
EVs are heavier than petrol equivalents and deliver instant torque, which accelerates tyre wear. EV rated tyres can cost considerably more than standard equivalents. Budget for more frequent replacement at a higher per tyre cost and check what is fitted to any used vehicle you are considering.
Windscreens
The cameras and sensors that power lane-keeping, emergency braking, and parking assistance are mounted in and around the windscreen on most modern EVs.
When the windscreen is replaced, these systems must be professionally recalibrated afterwards. The combined cost runs to several times what a standard petrol car windscreen replacement would cost. Check your insurance policy specifically covers ADAS recalibration as part of any windscreen claim
The dashboard screen
Most EVs are controlled primarily through a large central touchscreen. If it develops a fault, it is dealer-only work and it is expensive. Test every function of the screen during your inspection. Climate, navigation, charging settings, camera feeds all of it.
Missing charging cables
Every EV needs charging cables to function. A full replacement set costs a meaningful sum. Check all cables are present and undamaged before agreeing a price.
Home charger installation
If you do not already have a home wall charger, factor in installation before comparing prices with a petrol alternative. Costs vary by property get a quote from an approved installer early.
The 12V battery
Every EV has a small secondary battery, entirely separate from the main traction battery. If it fails, the car will not start or move even with a full main battery. Have it tested on any used vehicle. Budget for replacement if the history is unknown.
What to do before you buy
Work through the budget checklist below before visiting any vehicle. Confirm you have accounted for:
- Installation costs
- Tyre replacement cycles
- Windscreen cover
- All Cables
- 12V battery condition
