Used electric vehicles: Buying guide

The rapid evolution of EVs

In recent years, electric cars have evolved rapidly. And they show no signs of slowing down. We’re seeing more and more of them on Quebec’s roads, across all categories. As a result, the used electric vehicle market is also thriving. Availability is up, and there are more models, more variety, and more choice than ever before.

The advantages of buying a used electric vehicle

Buying used is a great way to familiarize yourself with electric vehicles.

New or used, the advantages are the same:

• Lower fuel and maintenance costs (no oil changes) means you save money

• Comfort in winter (you can pre-heat the interior while your car is plugged in, at home or elsewhere)

• Good performance

• Range that keeps getting better

• Special lanes and benefits for EVs (such as free toll bridge crossings)

However, part of the difference in cost between a gas-powered car and an EV will have been absorbed by the original owner.

6 steps for choosing the right EV

1– Think about what you need:

• Will this be my primary vehicle or a second car?

• How many passengers will I have?

• Do I need to transport equipment?

• What kind of range do I need?

• Do I plan to install a charging station at home or is there one I can use at work?

• Do I have a 120-volt exterior outlet?

• What type of driving do I do mostly: city or highway?

There are all sorts of electric vehicles out there. If you plan to use your vehicle every day, your best choice is an extended-range, plug-in-hybrid or a fully electric long-range model. You could also opt for a fully electric vehicle and rent a gas-powered model for long trips, vacations, or transporting bulky items. Many people use their EV for everyday driving and keep a gas-powered car for special trips, like weekends away with the family.

Once you’ve answered all the questions, use our interactive tool Electric vehicle buyer’s guide to find the electric vehicle that suits your needs based on type, range, budget, etc.start researching. Remember to check the CAA-Quebec road tests and read customer reviews.

2 –Compare the cost

It costs more to buy a used or new fully electric or plug-in-hybrid car than a gas-powered equivalent. But you’ll save money over the long term by spending less on fuel and maintenance. The more you drive, the sooner your investment will pay off. In come cases, you could recoup the cost in as little as two to three years.

Do have a certain model in mind? CAA-Quebec’s Automotive Advisory Services can help you do the math and tell you about the list price.

3 – Check the remaining warranty

Electric vehicles usually come with an eight-year, 160,000 km warranty for the electric or hybrid drive system. Coverage for the high-voltage battery is also better than the average for gas-powered vehicles, but the warranty length varies more. Does the electric vehicle you’re interested in still have warranty coverage? How much time is left?

See the CAA-Quebec study on vehicle warranties to find out. Unfortunately, certain manufactures are somewhat vague about the terms of the warranty or have special requirements for replacing the battery.

4 – Take advantage of government rebates for electric vehicles

The Quebec government offers a rebate on used vehicles, subject to certain conditions. Check whether the one you’ve picked qualifies (for example, were any rebates paid to the original owner?). You might also get a rebate for installing a home charging station.

5 – Check the condition before you buy used

• First things first—put the car through its paces on a road test. You need to know whether the vehicle’s interior, driving position, cargo space, and handling are a good fit for your driving habits.
• Check the Register of Personal and Movable Real Rights (RDPRM) to make sure there are no debts on the vehicle.
• Get a full CARFAX vehicle history report to find out whether the vehicle has been in an accident.
• Take the vehicle you’re thinking of buying to a CAA-Quebec authorized Vehicle Inspection Centre.

6 – Find the right used car dealer

There are more and more used electric vehicle available for sale on websites like Otogo, from Corporation des concessionnaires d’automobiles du Québec (CCAQ), and autousagee.ca/en, run by Association des marchands de véhicules d’occasion du Québec (AMVOQ).

Members of these two organizations are generally reputable dealers who must meet a code of ethics. In the event of a dispute, CAA-Quebec members can use the free conciliation services program.

Buying an EV privately can also be worth looking into. The owner knows their car’s history and can provide proof of maintenance. However, you should find your own financing, if necessary (such as a home equity line of credit). If your budget allows, try to find a vehicle that still has a valid manufacturer’s warranty. And remember, all the checks we mentioned above still apply!

Maintaining your electric vehicle

EVs require less maintenance than their gas equivalents. But it’s best to have a mechanic you trust. For specific issues, check with your dealer. Many of the hiccups with EVs come from the electric system or parts that are not found in gas vehicles. That’s why it’s especially important to get an accurate diagnosis. CAA-Quebec’s Approved Auto Repair Service Locations have special facilities for EVs. For work on the combustion engine of a hybrid model and on the tires, brakes, suspension, and so on, your trusted mechanic is the person to see.

Driving an electric car in winter

No two ways about it—electric cars prefer mild weather. In bitter cold weather below -25°C, battery range can drop by as much as 40% to 50%. You should keep that in mind whenever you get behind the wheel and when shopping for a used car. Make sure you choose one with enough range for your winter driving habits. Also know that the high-voltage battery in an EV loses about 2% to 3% of its capacity every year. The 400 km range of a brand new vehicle can drop to about 350 km after five years.

Tip: Leave your vehicle plugged in or turn on the charging terminal 20 to 30 minutes before you plan to leave. Bonus: The interior will heat up in a jiffy!

If you run into trouble, CAA-Quebec offers emergency charging services to members in Quebec City and Montreal. If it is not possible to charge your car (for example, outside these two cities), we’ll tow your vehicle to the nearest charging station.

To sum up, don’t be afraid of taking the leap to electric mobility. A used EV is a good way to get your feet wet. There’s plenty of choice, and Quebec is ready with the right infrastructure.

Car insurance: The basics

The cost of insurance might be a factor in your decision. Before you buy, contact several car insurance companies for a premium estimate and to find out if you’re eligible for a “green rebate.”