When considering a pre-owned electric vehicle (EV), many prospective buyers understandably focus on the longevity and potential cost of the main battery. However, new research indicates that concerns about major EV battery failures are largely unfounded for used models. Instead, the most frequent repair requests for second-hand EVs are concentrated on electrical systems and, notably, charging components, according to data compiled by used car warranty provider Warrantywise. This insight comes at a time when the market for used EVs is experiencing significant growth, with annual transactions rising by 32 percent in the first quarter of the year, as reported by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Common Used EV Faults Revealed
Warrantywise analyzed its repair data from January 2023 to January 2026 to pinpoint the most common issues reported by owners of used electric vehicles. The findings suggest that the majority of repair needs are not unique to EV powertrains but relate to more conventional vehicle components, albeit with an electrical focus.
Electrical System Troubles Lead the Pack
Electrical system issues emerged as the primary category for repair requests. These encompass a range of problems, with specific components like sensors and central locking mechanisms being particularly implicated.
- Sensors: Faulty sensors were the most frequently reported issue. The average repair cost for sensor problems stood at approximately £809.59, with the highest recorded repair bill reaching £3,270.
- Central Locking Failures: Failures within the electrical central locking system ranked second. These repairs averaged £899.44, and in some instances, the cost escalated to £4,056.82.
- Auxiliary Battery (12V): Another electrical system concern, the smaller 12V auxiliary battery, was the fifth most common fault. Repairs for this component averaged £532.94, with the most expensive repair costing £986.15.
On-Board Charger Faults Prove Costly
While EV battery health is often a primary concern, the data highlights that the on-board charger system presents a more significant and potentially expensive repair challenge for used EV owners. The on-board charger was identified as the third most common fault area, and the associated repair costs were substantial.
- On-Board Charger System: This component’s average repair cost was a considerable £2,158.75. More alarmingly, the most expensive repair for an on-board charger reached a staggering £10,454.98, underscoring the financial risk associated with this particular fault.
Suspension Issues Also Noted
Beyond electrical components and charging systems, suspension problems also featured in the top five reported faults for used EVs.
- Suspension (Wishbones): Failures related to suspension, specifically wishbones, were the fourth most common issue. The average repair cost for these parts was approximately £1,229.64, with the highest repair bill amounting to £4,118.65.
Battery Concerns vs. Reality
The Warrantywise research explicitly states that EV battery-related repairs did not appear in the top five reported issues. This finding directly addresses a common apprehension among used EV buyers, suggesting that the high-voltage batteries powering these vehicles are proving to be more robust and less prone to failure than often assumed, at least within the scope of warranty claims.
Antony Diggins, managing director at Warrantywise, commented on these findings, emphasizing that while the main battery is a natural focus for buyers, everyday components remain critical. He advised that purchasing a used EV should involve the same thorough checks as any conventional used car, with added attention paid to the charging systems. Diggins also highlighted the growing recognition among drivers of the value an extended warranty provides in managing the costs of unexpected repairs.
The Value of Used EV Warranties
The increasing popularity of used EVs is paralleled by a growing interest in extended warranties. Warrantywise observed a significant 68.2 percent increase in EV warranty sales between 2024 and 2025, indicating a rising demand for financial protection against potential repair costs. This trend is particularly relevant given the current economic climate, where drivers are keen to budget effectively for vehicle maintenance.
Extended warranties for used EVs can offer comprehensive coverage, extending beyond the auxiliary battery and on-board charger to include components like braking systems and even key fobs. Many policies also include additional benefits such as roadside assistance, providing a holistic safety net for owners facing unforeseen issues. The cost and scope of these warranties are typically tailored to the vehicle’s age and mileage, with various options available from providers like Warrantywise.
Conclusion: A Shift in Focus for Used EV Buyers
The data from Warrantywise offers a valuable perspective for anyone navigating the used EV market. It suggests that while the allure of electric driving is strong, potential buyers should temper anxieties about main battery degradation. Instead, a pragmatic approach focusing on the integrity of electrical systems, charging infrastructure, and standard vehicle components like suspension is advisable. Furthermore, the substantial cost of some non-battery-related repairs, particularly those involving on-board chargers, underscores the prudence of securing an extended warranty to safeguard against potentially significant expenses and ensure a more predictable ownership experience.
