The advent of electric vehicles (EVs) has introduced a new dimension to consider when purchasing a used car: battery health. The state of health (SOH) of an EV's battery can significantly impact its performance and longevity, making it a crucial factor for potential buyers. This article explores the importance of battery health in used EVs, how it affects vehicle range, and the measures being taken by dealerships and online platforms to provide transparency.

Evaluating Battery Longevity and Performance

Electric vehicle batteries typically last between 12 to 15 years, covering around 100,000 to 200,000 miles. Over time, these batteries lose their ability to store power efficiently due to various factors such as environmental conditions and charging habits. Understanding the SOH of a battery is essential for assessing its remaining lifespan and performance. Many consumers are concerned about whether the battery in a used EV is still in good condition, especially since the estimated range can fluctuate based on recent driving patterns and charging levels.

To address these concerns, experts recommend looking beyond just the remaining range after a full charge. Factors like frequent fast charging, allowing the battery to drop below 20 percent frequently, and consistently overcharging past 80 percent can all degrade battery health. Just as oil changes indicate maintenance history in gasoline cars, knowing the battery's health offers insight into how well the vehicle has been cared for. This knowledge helps buyers gauge the potential lifespan of the battery and avoid costly replacements in the future. For instance, Autotrader rates battery health from excellent to fair, using software that evaluates the battery's condition based on specific data rather than general model estimates.

Transparency in Battery Information for Buyers

Several leading automotive sales platforms have begun providing detailed battery health information for used EVs. This move enhances transparency and empowers consumers with more accurate data to make informed decisions. Websites like Carvana ensure that every EV they sell retains at least 70 percent of its original range, while others like TrueCar and CarGurus list the initial range independent of mileage or age. Recurrent’s Range Score offers a comparison between current expected range and what was typical when new, highlighting significant differences in real-world usage.

In addition to online platforms, some dealership chains perform comprehensive inspections before reselling used EVs. Dealerships such as Ford, Nissan, and Volkswagen conduct thorough checks to assess battery condition. However, many other dealerships only display the original range or the current range at full charge without deeper insights. Importantly, federal regulations mandate that EV batteries come with a minimum warranty of eight years or 100,000 miles, with some manufacturers extending this coverage. By prioritizing transparency in battery health, these initiatives aim to build trust and confidence among potential EV buyers.