Tips for Buying a Used EV

Are you ready to make the switch to an electric vehicle? The used car marketing is heating up and the used EV market is no exception. We are seeing more and more of our customers come into showrooms to look at traditional petrol or diesel engines, but drive away in an EV! Buying a used car can be a little daunting at the best of times but buying an EV can make it seems even more complicated. We're so glad to tell you, it's not!

We have such an amazing range of used car vehicles within our group. Whether you're looking for Jaguar,Land Rover, Volvo, Ford, Skoda, SEAT, or CUPRA, we've got you covered! None of those brands catching your eye? No problem, take a look at our luxury used car business Spirit Premium and Spirit Burton.

If you are just beginning to learn about EVs, you can explore our EV hub to learn about the different vehicles we offer.

Explore Electric Hub

If you’re just about to start your used EV journey, check out our top tips for buying a used car below to help you:

1. Check the battery warranty cover

Checking the warranty cover on the battery in the EV is a great idea. This will give you peace of mind and give a better understanding of how you can expect this vehicle to work for you.

2. Battery range vs daily drive requirements

This might seem like a no-brainer but it’s important you have identified what type of driving you actually do. Are you just nipping to work and back, maybe doing a school run and shopping trips? Are you driving long distances or beginning to start up a long commute again? These are important factors to consider when thinking about buying an EV.

If you are unsure about what would suit you best, just ask our sales team. They are experts in EVs and will be able to advise you. If you are still driving very long distances regularly, it might be that a plug-in hybrid vehicle suits your needs better.

3. Charging options

This is another point that may seem obvious, but you’d be surprised at how many people overlook it! Understanding whether you can install a charger at your home is vital. If you’re renting, this may be a stumbling block to your purchase. Are there chargers locally you can avail of or maybe you could charge at work? Thinking about this will ensure you have made the right choice in buying an EV. ESB have a list of all public charge points in Ireland which might help you get started!

Charge Point Map

4. Buy from a reputable dealer

Always buy from a reputable dealer and check that they have been SIMI accredited. While you may think you’ll find a better deal somewhere else, the security you get from buying from somewhere reputable is invaluable. There are over 1200 dealers listed on SIMI and you can use their handy search function to find one that suits your needs.

Check SIMI Directory

5. Full-Service history

Always buy a vehicle that comes with a full service history. This is vital as it gives you the knowledge and comfort of knowing your new car has been serviced appropriately. It’s also important to check that all services and works done to the car have been done by a reputable service dealer. This peace of mind is well worth the check. Remember, accredited service departments often have a warranty on their parts which is also great to know!

6. Reliable brand

We know budget is the main factor that influences decisions when buying a new used car, however, it is important to try to buy the best brand that is affordable for you. Think about things like parts availability and your resale value when it comes time to change again.

7. Ask about any accident history

It’s always a good idea to ask the seller about any accident history. You should be able to cross-check the service history to ensure this marries up!

8. Check for any outstanding finance

You should also ask the seller whether there is any outstanding finance on the vehicle – you don’t want to end up with any surprises!


Now you know what to look out for, why not explore our current used car listings! We have a multitude of brands to choose from and a range of different prices.

Browse EV Stock