Is Buying a Used Electric Car Worth It?
By Motor Match • 11/08/2025
If you’ve been keeping an eye on the car market over the past few years, you’ll know electric vehicles (EVs) have gone from a niche choice to a serious contender for anyone thinking about their next car. But while brand-new EVs can come with a hefty price tag, the used EV market has been quietly growing and for many drivers, that’s where the real value lies.
Let’s take a closer look at the benefits, potential drawbacks and what you really need to know before considering a purchase.
The Benefits of Buying a Used Electric Car
1. Lower Purchase Price
One of the biggest selling points is cost. New EVs can be pricey, but once they’ve been on the road for a few years, depreciation brings them into a much more affordable bracket. That means you can often get a higher-spec model for less than you might spend on a brand-new petrol or diesel car.
2. Cheaper to Run
EVs can be far cheaper to keep on the road. You don’t have to budget for fuel in the traditional sense, just plug in and recharge. If you charge at home, especially overnight on a cheaper electricity tariff, the cost per mile can be significantly less than petrol or diesel.
3. Lower Maintenance Costs
With fewer moving parts and no oil changes, timing belts or exhaust systems to worry about, electric cars generally need less maintenance. Brake wear is also reduced thanks to regenerative braking.
4. Environmentally Friendly
Driving electric means producing zero tailpipe emissions, which is better for air quality in towns and cities. While the full environmental picture depends on battery production and electricity sources, an EV’s lifetime carbon footprint is typically lower than that of a petrol or diesel car.
5. Growing Charging Infrastructure
The UK’s public charging network has grown rapidly, with more fast and rapid chargers available than ever before. For many, range anxiety is becoming less of a concern.
The Potential Drawbacks to Consider
1. Battery Health and Range
Battery degradation happens over time, so a used EV might have a slightly reduced range compared to when it was new. The good news? Most modern EV batteries are built to last and often come with long warranties, sometimes 8 years or more, so you might still be covered.
2. Charging Access
If you don’t have off-street parking, relying solely on public chargers could be less convenient. You’ll need to think about where and how often you’ll be able to top up.
3. Technology Moves Quickly
The EV market is evolving fast. Buying used means you might miss the very latest range improvements or charging speeds, but you’ll pay much less for the car itself.
4. Resale Value
As EV prices are still settling, it’s hard to predict long-term resale values. That said, with demand for EVs growing, used examples could hold their value better as they become more mainstream.
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a lower-cost way to make the switch to electric, buying used can be an excellent move. You’ll benefit from cheaper running costs, reduced maintenance, and a cleaner drive, all without paying the premium for a brand-new model.
However, it’s worth doing your research, check the car’s battery health, look into the warranty and make sure you have a charging plan that works for your lifestyle.
At Motor Match, we make it easy to compare used electric cars so you can find the perfect match for your budget and needs. Whether it’s a compact city runabout or a family-friendly SUV, there’s a used EV out there that can fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.
In short: Yes - buying a used electric car can absolutely be worth it. You just need to choose wisely, know what to check and take advantage of the growing choice in the second-hand market. With more models and charging options than ever, there’s never been a better time to go electric.
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