Now that you’ve decided that a used EV is the right type of vehicle, it’s time to consider your specific driving habits and needs. Since driving range is a paramount concern for most EV buyers, take a moment to think about just how far you typically drive on a daily, weekly, and even monthly basis. Overall range ratings vary quite a bit by model and trim level depending on which EV you’re interested in. 

For example, if you have a short commute to work or you only make a few quick trips around town per week – a smaller range rating in the 100-150-mile range would be sufficient for your needs. Longer commutes or more frequent drives mean you should pay close attention to the range rating of a used EV. There’s certainly nothing wrong with having more range than you intend to use compared to the opposite situation!

Equally as important as driving range, having a plan to charge your EV is another essential part of used EV shopping that’s worth taking into consideration. Most used EVs on the market offer plenty of flexibility in the form of multiple ways to charge. Perhaps the most convenient is Level 2 charging inside your garage or in your own driveway, allowing you to wake up to a charged battery each day. Level 3 charging, also known as DC Fast Charging, is the ultimate solution for drivers constantly on the go. Before you make a final purchasing decision, make sure you have a plan for how you plan to charge. Whether that’s at home, at work, at school, or in public – charging capabilities vary by model and availability may vary based on your specific location.

As with any used vehicle purchase, knowing its history and how well it’s been maintained are critical to a rewarding ownership experience. Any reputable dealer should provide you with access to a vehicle history report for the used EV of your choice. This vehicle history report will disclose any potential red flags including frequent repairs, frequent ownership changes, accident history, theft history, flood damage, and more. High mileage is another particularly noteworthy concern for used EV shoppers. This is due to a phenomenon known as battery degradation. As the miles add up and after many hundreds of charging cycles, the onboard EV battery can suffer from a loss of capacity that can lead to reduced driving ranges. If you have a choice between a low mileage EV and a higher mileage EV, it’s typically a smarter buy to opt for lower miles on the odometer to ensure long-term satisfaction. 

From sales to service and everything in between, choosing a dealership experienced with electric vehicles is always a good idea. Across our multiple locations here in New Jersey, Schumacher Chevrolet has the knowledge and expertise that will make your next used EV purchase much more rewarding. In addition to a knowledgeable sales staff that’s familiar with electric vehicles and their unique advantages – our state-of-the-art dealerships are equipped with specialized tools and equipment to service EVs. From a huge selection of quality used EVs to expert EV service – Schumacher is your top destination for your next used EV purchase!