First published: 22 January 2026 -

Last updated: 23 January 2026 -

Autotrader’s guide to buying a used electric car

Electric cars have been around for years now, and so there are lots of used makes and models available for a good price. In fact, two in five second-hand electric vehicles are under £20,000.

A pre-owned electric car can be a good option, but it helps to understand how they work and what to look out for. This guide will walk you through exactly that.

Why some people choose a used electric car

There are several reasons why used electric cars are becoming more common.

Greater supply

As people trade in their existing electric cars for newer ones, the supply of second-hand cars increases.

They can cost less to run

Electricity can be cheaper than petrol, especially if you can charge at home. Many electric cars also have fewer moving parts, which can mean fewer repairs and less regular maintenance.

The batteries last longer than many people think

Research shows that electric car batteries usually lose only a small amount of power each year. Many are built to last 10 to 15 years, some even last longer. As with petrol and diesel cars, wear and tear varies with use and maintenance and can affect the battery’s performance over time.

Range often suits real life

Most used electric cars can travel far enough on one charge to cover the average journey in Wales, which tends to be eight or nine miles. Many low mileage drivers only need to charge their cars weekly or fortnightly. If you mainly drive locally, a used electric car may meet your needs with no trouble.

Things to think about before buying a used electric car

Here are simple questions to help you decide if a used electric car could work for you.

How far do you drive each week?

If your trips are short, the range of most used electric cars will be enough. If you often make long journeys, check the car’s range to make sure it can handle the distance or if not, think about where you might charge en route.

Where will you charge it?

If you can charge at home, you’ll likely benefit from the cheapest tariffs and save the most money. If not, look for public chargers in your area. There are almost 4,000 chargers across Wales now, with more chargers being added each year, but availability can vary by area.

Will you be able to charge easily at public chargers?

Some much older electric cars use a type of charging port that is becoming less common. Check this before buying so you know where you can charge.

Understanding battery health

The battery is the heart of an electric car. Here’s what you should know:

Batteries are built to last many years.
Many brands offer long warranties on the battery alone.
You can check battery health with a short test drive.
Some makers have apps or tools that show battery condition.
A battery that drops below about 85% health may mean a shorter range.

You don’t need to be an expert. Just ask the seller for information and take your time to understand what the car can do.

A man holding the handle of his EV charger

Charging your used electric car in Wales

Home charging
This is the easiest option. You plug in overnight, and the car is ready in the morning. Charging at home is usually cheaper than using public chargers. If you rent a property, you would need the landlord’s permission to install a charger.
Public charging
Wales has a growing network of public chargers which can be particularly helpful on long journeys or if you can’t charge at home. Wales has the third highest number of charge points per population in the UK outside London. Many are located where people stop anyway – in car parks, residential areas, or near food outlets on major roads.
Rapid and ultra-rapid chargers
These can add a lot of range in a short time, but you will pay more for that benefit. Handy for trips across Wales, such as Cardiff to Aberystwyth or Llandudno to Newport. In Wales 20% of chargers are rated at 50kW or more.

Costs of running a used electric car

Electricity

Charging at home can be much cheaper than buying petrol or diesel. Public rapid charging costs more but can still be good value.

Maintenance

Electric cars have fewer parts that wear out. That can mean fewer oil changes, fewer moving parts, and fewer things that need replacing.

Repairs

While servicing can be cheaper, repairs involving the battery or electrical systems can cost more. Checking the car’s history helps you avoid surprises.

Tax

Since April 2025, electric cars in the UK have to pay Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax). New electric vehicles will pay a small first-year rate (around £10) and then the standard rate (about £195 a year). Vehicles with a list price over £50,000 will also incur the Expensive Car Supplement, which is around £425 a year extra, for up to five years.

What to check before you buy

Buying a used electric car is similar to buying any used car. Make sure you:

Check the V5C logbook and service history.
Look at the bodywork, tyres, brakes and wheels.
Test the screens, buttons, lights and electrical parts.
Make sure the charging cables are included.
Look for any damage to the charging port.
Take a test drive and listen for strange noises (electric cars are quiet, so noises stand out).
Take your time and don’t rush the decision.

When might be a good time to buy?

Used electric car prices can rise or fall through the year. Prices sometimes drop when new models come out, or when more used electric cars enter the market. If you’re not in a hurry, keeping an eye on prices can help you get a better deal.

A used electric car can be a good choice for many people in Wales, especially if you are able to do most or all of your charging at home and want to save money on fuel. The batteries last longer than you’d expect, and running costs can be low. But it’s important to check the battery, understand how and where you’ll charge, and make sure the car meets your lifestyle requirements.

Take your time, ask questions, and choose a car that feels right for you. A used electric car might be a smart, simple step into cleaner, cheaper, quieter and more enjoyable driving.

Find out more

Lost in EV jargon? Autotrader’s EV dictionary explains the key terms you need to understand on electric vehicles.

Once you know the basics, find out why Gwenllian and Dave made the switch to EVs.