What to Look For When Shopping for a Used EV in Calgary, AB
Gas prices in Calgary are all over the place lately. Pair that with how much EV technology has improved over the past few years, and it’s easy to see why more Alberta drivers want to make the switch to electric. The biggest hesitation for many buyers, though, still comes down to price. Brand-new EVs can still cost noticeably more than a comparable gas vehicle, particularly once you move into SUVs or longer-range models. That’s why the used EV market has become so popular recently. But, before you jump on the first good-looking deal you find online, there are a few things you’ll absolutely want to check first: battery health, charging capability, remaining warranty coverage, as well as overall vehicle wear. Follow along with our team at GoElectric Calgary as we break it all down in more detail below.
Check the Battery Health
First things first, check the battery health. The good news, though, is that modern EV batteries are built to last more than 20 years, and unlike gas vehicles, higher mileage doesn’t automatically mean the battery is on borrowed time. Instead, the biggest factor affecting battery condition is often simply age. In other words, a higher-mileage EV that’s only a few years old can actually have a healthier battery than a lower-mileage EV that spent years sitting unused or constantly exposed to extreme temperatures. Many EVs can have their battery condition scanned using an OBD tool. At GoElectric Calgary, we provide battery health reports whenever possible. which gives a much clearer picture of the battery’s remaining capacity.
Verify Charging Capability
When people test drive a used EV, most of the focus usually goes toward battery range and how the vehicle feels on the road. But, one thing that’s often overlooked is how well the vehicle charges. A good place to start is simply testing the charging process itself. If possible, plug the vehicle into both a Level 2 charger and a DC fast charger before buying. You want to make sure the vehicle connects properly, starts charging without errors, as well as maintains stable charging speeds with no random stopping.
As well, physically inspecting the charging hardware matters too. Alberta winters can be rough on charging components if the vehicle spent years outside exposed to snow. So, check the charge port carefully for cracked plastic, corrosion, damaged seals, moisture intrusion, bent connector pins, or looseness around the port itself.
Review Remaining Warranty Coverage
Another thing you should look out for is how much warranty coverage is still remaining on the vehicle. Take battery warranties, for example. Although EV batteries rarely need replacement, many manufacturers also cover excessive battery degradation below a certain capacity level during the warranty period. Many buyers don’t realize that not every warranty transfers the same way to a second owner. Before buying, it’s always a good idea to ask for the VIN and verify the warranty coverage directly through the manufacturer or dealership whenever possible.
Observe the Worn Parts
Just because EVs require less maintenance doesn’t mean there are no normal wear-and-tear items. EVs are typically heavier than comparable gas vehicles because of the battery pack, and they also produce instant torque the second you touch the accelerator. That combination can wear through tires faster depending on how the previous owner drove the vehicle. Uneven tire wear can also sometimes point toward alignment or suspension issues, so it’s worth taking a close look at tire condition across all four corners.
Then there are the brakes. The good thing is brakes get used less often thanks to regenerative braking. That said, surface rust can sometimes build up on the rotors. It’s usually not a major issue, but it’s still something worth inspecting during a vehicle inspection.
One thing most buyers worry about is the electric motor. Actually, they are generally extremely reliable and rarely have issues. In most cases, they tend to either work properly or fail outright, without a long, gradual decline in performance. That’s also why manufacturers typically offer long warranty coverage on EV drivetrain components.
At GoElectric Calgary, every vehicle is fully inspected before being retailed. That includes checking the condition of major wear items, charging systems, drivetrain components, and more so buyers can feel more confident about what they’re driving home.
Used EV Buying FAQs
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How long do EV batteries last?
Most modern EV batteries are designed to last 15 to 20 years or more, meaning they rarely need replacement. -
Is a higher-mileage EV worse than an older low-mileage one?
It’s actually the opposite of what people expect. A higher-mileage EV that’s been driven regularly and charged properly can be in better shape than an older low-mileage one that’s been sitting for years. -
Is home charging complicated?
Not really. Most EV owners simply install a Level 2 home charger and plug in overnight. The vehicle charges while you sleep, and you wake up with a full battery. -
Are EVs still good in Alberta winters?
Yes, they are, but it’s important to expect some range reduction in cold weather because the vehicle uses extra energy to heat the cabin and keep the battery at its optimal operating temperature. Once temperatures warm back up, that range typically returns.
Shop for Your Next Used EV at GoElectric Calgary
We hope the guide above has helped you feel a little more confident about what to look for when shopping for a used EV. But, if you’re still unsure about any of it, that’s what we’re here for. At GoElectric Calgary, we offer a free 3-day test drive so you can live with the EV, try charging at home, and see how it performs in your daily routine. Check out our inventory online or fill out our online form to sign up for your test drive, today.