Understanding EV Battery History & Mileage Checks

Learn key EV checks before buying a secondhand or imported electric car — mileage verification, battery health, and potential hidden issues.

1. EV Battery Health

Battery condition is the heart of any electric vehicle. Always check:

• Battery degradation percentage vs. original capacity.
• Warranty coverage remaining and any previous replacements.
• Repair or service history specifically mentioning battery modules.

Modern EVs have sophisticated battery management systems. Reports may include charge cycles, peak capacity loss, and any flagged issues.

2. Mileage Verification

Mileage is often misreported in used cars. Key tips:

• Compare odometer readings with MOT and service records.
• Check for inconsistencies in import documentation.
• Look at car diagnostic logs if available — EVs often store historical mileage digitally.

3. Imported Cars & Compliance

Imported vehicles require extra care:

• Ensure compliance with UK registration and safety standards.
• Check import documents for tampering or missing info.
• Review service history; imported cars may have different maintenance cycles.

4. Common EV Faults

Each model has typical issues to watch out for:

• Battery module failures or early degradation.
• Inverter or charging port problems.
• Software updates affecting range or performance.

5. MOT & Service History

Check MOT records for:

• Repeated advisory notices indicating hidden problems.
• Service intervals to confirm proper maintenance.
• Accident damage or electrical system issues.

6. Pre-Purchase Checks & Red Flags

Before buying, always consider:

• Unusual wear patterns on tyres or brakes — could indicate misuse.
• Battery warranty transferability — not all EV warranties transfer easily.
• Test driving to ensure range, regenerative braking, and charging are normal.

7. Final Tips for Buying a Used EV

• Use a trusted reporting tool like CarCue for complete data.
• Compare multiple vehicles to benchmark battery health.
• Ask for full service and charging history.