Used Electric Car Problems (12 Issues + Unreliable Models)

A used EV has some wear and tear and history before you bought it.

What are the likely issues with a used EV?

Good News First

Electric cars have fewer moving parts than their petrol or diesel equivalent, requiring less maintenance and having fewer problems.

The parts that won’t go wrong include the clutch, spark plugs, fuel pumps, timing belts, and exhaust because these components are unnecessary in an electric car.

The reported problems for electric vehicles are substantially lower than other models. Yes, there are problems but only in low numbers compared with the number of electric cars providing trouble-free motoring.

Potential Issues with a Used EV

The most common problems with a used EV are:

#1 Higher Prices (Temporarily)

Buying a used vehicle means you get a substantial discount on the initial price.

Following the recent shortage of semiconductor chips (the pandemic is the gift that keeps giving), prices of used electric vehicles are currently higher because of general shortages.

As more become available, the price may drop, so if you don’t need to change your car this year, you may benefit from lower prices in the following years.

#2 Reduced Range

The power source for your EV is the battery. These batteries are robust and long-lived, but all batteries deteriorate.

The main reasons the battery deteriorates are age, extreme heat, and repeated charging.

Your electric vehicle leaves the manufacturer with an estimated range with full battery power. As your EV ages (and other operating factors), the available range on full power decreases.

When you fully charge your EV, you get an estimated range which may be 75%, 50%, or less of its peak performance.

If the current range fits your needs for a daily commute and regular charging pattern, then you don’t have an issue with the reduced range.

But as the years pass, this available range between charging stations will decrease. Eventually, you may need to change the battery if the range falls below acceptable levels.

A replacement battery can cost up to $20,000, or if the battery fails while in warranty, you may get a replacement battery for free.

The cost of replacement batteries decreases as more people switch to electric driving.

Check the battery range on full power before buying a used EV. You can then help maintain the battery life by careful charging.

#3 Warranty

The manufacturer’s warranty covers replacement batteries, provided the car is less than eight years and the mileage lies below 100,000 miles.

Hyundai and Kia typically offer the best warranty.

The issue with a used EV is that the warranty may only apply to the first owner, leaving you to fund the costs of repairs and replacements.

The general warrant for manufacturers’ defects covering mechanical failures, paint chips, and rust proofing may be only a few years and expire before you own the vehicle.

The issue with a used EV is that the warranty may not apply to you or be expired.

You can check that the warranty still applies or buy an additional warranty or service contract for your vehicle if you buy from an approved supplier.

#4 Cold Weather

This issue isn’t exclusive to used EVs, and all-electric vehicles have reduced range in cold weather compared to warm weather.

You get up to 40% fewer miles in cold weather.

A used EV has a reduced range due to the older battery, and the cold weather effect compounds this issue. You may need to recharge your vehicle more frequently in cold weather.

If you can, park your vehicle overnight in a sheltered spot to protect it from the cold.

#5 Slower Charging

A used EV doesn’t benefit from the latest battery technology, and the charging speed may disappoint.

You may need to invest in fast charging outlets and cables to ensure that your electric vehicle can charge overnight at home.

#6 Expensive Repairs and Service

An EV is relatively maintenance free, but if something goes wrong with your vehicle (other than lights, brakes, wipers, and tires), it requires a specialist garage and will cost top dollar.

You have limited options for appropriately qualified technicians in the independent sector, and you may want to invest in breakdown insurance to cover high-value repairs.

#7 Battery Fires

Your EV is less likely to catch fire than a standard vehicle and doesn’t have a fuel tank.

But in the rare case that your battery gets on fire due to a collision or other event, it is more difficult to put out. You may need a specialist fire extinguisher or an excess of water.

It makes sense for any vehicle owner to carry an appropriate fire extinguisher, consult the manufacturer of your used EV for their recommendations.

Despite the media hype, battery fires in used EVs are not regular.

#8 Brake Issues

Your EV has regenerative braking (recharges the battery) and conventional braking (stopping the car from moving).

You benefit from more efficient braking but must change the brake fluid and pads as necessary. Your used EV may need some work on its brakes.

If you notice a brake warning light on the dashboard, the brakes feel soft or not quite right; the steering wheel vibrates when you apply the brakes, or you hear a loud squealing sound, take your used EV for a brake replacement.

You need to change the brake fluid every two years as it absorbs water from the atmosphere.

Depending on the issue, you can expect to pay $50 for a simple adjustment or around $200 for replacement.

#9 Relatively High Tire Wear

An EV’s higher torque generally causes tires to wear more quickly than an underpowered gasoline car.

The tires on your used EV may be worn and need replacing. You may need special tires that withstand the additional weight and are quieter than the average car (due to the quiet EV motor).

Your tires need to be legal and fit for driving conditions. The same rules apply to electric vehicle tires as to any other vehicle.

If you have a used EV, you probably have tires with some wear.

New or used, though, electric cars will cost more in the tire department.

#10 Coolant Levels

The coolant is necessary for keeping your battery functioning, and the sealed system means you need a qualified technician to flush or change the coolant.

You may get a dashboard warning light, but coolant changes are something you schedule according to the manufacturer’s guidance for your vehicle.

#11 Broken EV Charge System

If you bought the EV charge system with the vehicle, having a qualified electrician check that it is working correctly will put your mind at ease.

A broken PEN conductor can create live bodywork capable of giving you a severe shock.

Ideally, get a professional install at home and have your equipment serviced annually.

Electricity is hazardous, and your EV deals with high voltages capable of hurting you and your family.

#12 Bodywork and Glazing (Generally)

Any used car may have scratches, cracks, and dents.

Chips in the paintwork may open the door to corrosion, and a chip in the windscreen may result in catastrophic failure.

If you have a used EV, give it a regular clean and check for damage (new and previous) to the exterior. You can assess what action you need to keep your vehicle looking good and corrosion free.

General Pros of Buying a Used EV

The most significant plus point of opting for a used EV instead of a new one is the substantial price reduction. The first owner of any vehicle suffers the maximum depreciation as soon as they drive it off the lot.

The second advantage of a used electric car is that if there were any significant manufacturing defects, the first owner probably suffered the inconvenience and had them fixed under warranty.

Although a used car (electric or otherwise) is not in pristine as a new condition, someone else has had the inconvenience of discovering the flaws and niggles.

Finally, after the EV has been in use for a while, you have the advantage of the user forums to let you know if the used EV classes are a worthwhile investment or are more trouble than worth.

A brand-new EV does not have the track record of a vehicle driven around for a few years.

General Cons of Buying a Used EV

The most significant downside to buying a used EV is the decreased range on the manufacturer’s specification because of the deteriorating battery.

This decrease may not be a disadvantage if the current range meets your needs.

Other disadvantages of buying a used EV include:

• Potential lack of warranty.
• Wear and tear mean you may need to replace tires, brake discs, and other components.
• May need replacement charging cables as an additional expense.
• Not knowing service and accident history.
• Limited availability of models.

Most Problematic EV Models

Surveys of electric car owners conclude that the following cars are the least reliable (although at least 80% of owners surveyed are happy with their purchase).

Chevy Bolt EV – Before 2020

The Bolt EV is a top pick for drivers after an economical subcompact electric car with an excellent EPA-estimated range.

However, owners of 2020 and earlier models have reported issues that cover:

• Electrical problems – topping the list is electrical drive failures requiring immediate service and reduced range (sub-200 miles) after the initial three years.
• AC & Heater problems.
• Suspension problems – rear axle failure.

Jaguar I-Pace

First released in 2018, these luxury vehicles are coming onto the used EV market.

All the reported problems were fixed under warranty, but owners experienced issues with:

• Battery – the car doesn’t turn on even with a full battery or stalling. Plus, a battery that doesn’t hold charge.
• Other electrics – including illuminated warning lights.
• Sat-nav.

The 90kWh battery is under the floor and powers two electric motors as this is an all-wheel drive luxury vehicle.

Charging speed is slower than other electric vehicles in the luxury range, which means you need to factor in regular, lengthy charging stops on a long journey.

The amount you pay for a used Jaguar I-pace depends on the mileage.

Below 5,000 miles, you don’t pay much less than the new price. After 100,000 miles, you pay a drastically reduced price, giving you access to a Jaguar on a budget.

Nissan Leaf – 2011 to 2015; 2018

The later Nissan Leafs within a generation are more reliable than newer models that experience teething problems.

Issues reported in the 2011 to 2015 models, plus 2018 ones, include:

• Battery and electronics.
• Suspension.
• Brakes.

The Nissan Leaf is sold in high numbers and is an affordable car when new and a bargain when used.

Later models have improved connectivity for sat-nav and in-car media. Plus, the latest models tend to have an increased range compared with earlier models.

Although surveys list the new Nissan leaf as an “unreliable” EV, it is worth remembering that the number of people who complain about the vehicle is a small fraction of those who buy and have trouble-free motoring.

Renault Zoe

Renault’s electric car offering is economical, and many models starting from 2013 are available in the UK used car market.

(Unfortunately, Renaults aren’t available stateside).

Potential issues include:

• Air conditioning.
• Bodywork.
• Battery.
• Other electronics.

The plus points for the Renault Zoe are:

• Very affordable as a new car and a bargain in the secondhand market.
• You can lease the battery with a guaranteed replacement if it fails to perform.

The Renault Zoe gets categorized as an entry-level car, but if you want a green EV for a regular city commute, the Renault Zoe is an economical purchase to buy and run.

Most Reliable EV Models

Even the problematic EV models have high levels of owner satisfaction, but the best in the market include:

Hyundai Kona Electric

Hyundai vehicles offer industry-leading warranty coverage and are feature-packed, making them excellent EVs for buyers wanting the most bang for their money.

Apart from some owner-reported issues with the DC fast charging displaying an error message while the car is off but the phone is charging, the Kona Electric runs pretty much faultlessly for over 250 miles per charge.

The interior and cargo room are spacious for its extra-small crossover body.

Hyundai Ioniq Electric

The Ioniq Electric, with its hatchback design, is another excellent value-for-money option for those deterred by Tesla’s high asking price.

While 2021 was the Ioniq Electric’s final model year, used EV buyers will rejoice at this Hyundai’s segment-topping cargo space (for a small EV), abundant safety and technology features, and comfortable ride.

It debuted in 2017, so shoppers have five model years to choose an inexpensive electrified ride.

Nissan Leaf – 2017 Model

The older Nissan Leaf has a few issues, those owners that had problems needed repairs to the brakes and the other electronics that aren’t powered by the motor.

If you are buying a used EV, it is probably worth considering the older Nissan Leaf models, but check the range available on the battery.

One potential issue with the older models is the cream interior which gets dirty quickly.

Perhaps it is wise to avoid the earliest models (2011 to 2013) and to check out 2017 with its improved interior and trim; plus, 2017 is the final first-gen model and markedly cheaper than a 2018 Leaf.

Kia Niro EV

Very few issues but worryingly, these concern the battery and the electronics. If buying a used model, insist on checking the battery range on a full charge.

The transferrable seven-year warranty is a bonus selling point for buying a used Kia Niro EV.

If you pick up a three-year-old model, you still have four years of electric motoring with a comprehensive warranty.

They are affordable, popular, and reliable.

BMW i3 – All Models from 2013

You expect a BMW to be reliable, and the EV has an impressively low fault record. Most issues involve bodywork and other electronics.

You can expect to pay less than $15,000 for one of the earlier BMW i3 models with less than 50,000 miles on the clock.

But the downside to the BMW is the low mileage range when new, and this deteriorates with age.

However, if the available range suits your lifestyle and you like the BMW style, a used BMW i3 is relatively affordable.

Tesla Model 3 – After 2019

Tesla is the market leader in EVs, and the range is pretty reliable.

If you get faults, it tends to be with the non-motor electrics and the bodywork.

Tesla (love them or hate them) EVs tend to depreciate less than other used cars.

If you buy a used Tesla through an official Tesla dealer, you benefit from upgrades (potentially a working Full Self-driving system) and an extended warranty.

Tesla is the market leader in EV technology. The long waiting list for a new model means you pay proportionally more for a used Tesla than other electric cars in the same category.

MG ZS EV – From 2019

This EV is another European model and is unavailable in America.

MG had issues with earlier models of its EV, but from 2019 the only reported problems are with the bodywork. But by the time you look for this car on the used market, you expect these teething issues to be resolved.

Typically, you find dealers’ demo models on the used EV market, which is a positive indicator that purchasers of the MG ZS EV are not in a hurry to trade them in for a newer model.

It will probably be another year or so before these vehicles are available in any significant number in the used EV market.

How Fast Does an EV’s Value Drop?

As a rough guide, if you lease a new EV, the residual value after three years is 40% of its new price.

When buying a used EV from a private owner, you must negotiate and assess its condition; if you need to replace the battery, you pay almost as much as a new electric vehicle.

If the owner is moving on after a year, then either they are the type to need a new car every year, or the vehicle may have serious issues.

Buying a used EV means you don’t suffer the drastic drop in the value of the first-time owner. But that first owner may have had a substantial subsidy to buy the car.

Cost of Replacement EV Batteries

Many manufacturers are moving to lease electric car batteries for a relatively low monthly charge rather than offering a full battery pack.

However, what can you expect to pay if you want to replace the battery pack in your used EV shortly after purchase?

Tesla Model 3, Y, X and S	$12,000 to $15,000
Nissan Leaf	$6,500 to $7,500
Kia Niro EV	$6,000
BMW i3	Up to $16,000
Jaguar i-pace	Around $40,000
Renault Zoe	Batteries are leased or under warranty.

Finding a specific battery replacement cost is challenging because the task may include buying a new battery and other extensive work with a high voltage system.

Plus, most batteries get replaced during warranty if there are significant issues.

Before panicking about the cost of a replacement battery, remember that the battery’s expected life is 100,000 miles, or eight years for most EVs.

The range deteriorates with age, but the battery in your used EV is probably adequate for your driving.

You can prolong the life of your battery by:

• Only charging to a maximum 0f 80%
• Avoiding extreme temperatures.
• Opting for slow charging.
• Allowing the battery to cool down after a long drive before recharging.
• Adopting an easy driving style and avoiding regular aggressive acceleration.
• Not wholly draining the battery while driving.

Conclusion

Any used car can have issues, but electric vehicles tend to have fewer mechanical issues than traditional gasoline-powered models.

The significant concern is the battery’s life because that determines the range and is an expensive replacement.

However, it is unlikely that you will need to replace the battery unless there are excessive miles on the clock.