Used EV buying checklist: battery health is everything

A used EV can be a fantastic deal — electric drivetrains age far better than combustion engines. But the battery is the single most expensive component, so check it properly.

Ask for a battery health report

Most EVs show state of health (SoH) in the service menu or via an OBD app. Anything above 90 percent is excellent for a 2-3 year old vehicle. Below 80 percent, negotiate hard or walk away.

Check charging history

A car that lived on DC fast chargers will typically have more degradation than one charged slowly at home. Ask the seller about their charging habits — home-charged cars are the ones to buy.

Verify range in person

Take a proper test drive with the trip computer reset. Compare actual consumption against the advertised range. A 10-15 percent gap from the official figure is normal; 30 percent or more suggests battery issues.

The rest of the car

Tyres wear faster on EVs due to weight and torque. Check brake discs for rust — EVs use regenerative braking so friction brakes can corrode from underuse. And as with any used vehicle in Pakistan, verify documents and token tax status before paying.