How to Evaluate Battery Health on a Used BEV
When shopping for a used battery electric vehicle (BEV), the most critical component to assess is the battery pack. A battery’s condition largely determines range, performance, and value, but understanding its health can be tricky. You may consider the following ways to check a used BEV’s battery before purchase.
The simplest and most direct approach is to access the car’s Battery Management System (BMS) data. Using an OBD-II scanner and a smartphone app like CarScanner can reveal key battery metrics, including the State of Health (SoH) — a measure of how much capacity remains relative to new. A healthy battery should read close to 90% or above, though some variation is normal depending on age and use. A few brands, including Tesla, already display detailed SoH information in the vehicle interface, while others may require third-party diagnostic tools.
Buyers should also look for discrepancies in cell voltages, as variations can indicate internal wear or imbalance within the pack. This level of detail is available through specific software or professional EV diagnostic services. In some regions like Europe, third-party certification tools such as Aviloo offer independent State of Health reports that are often more precise than manufacturer data.
If a technical readout isn’t possible, a real-world range test can provide clues. Compare the vehicle’s estimated range to its original EPA or WLTP rating. A noticeable reduction may signal degradation, though temperature and driving style also influence results.
Finally, verify that the car remains under its original battery warranty — often eight years or 100,000 miles — for added protection. In short, combining BMS data, third-party testing, and range comparisons provides a clear, practical view of battery health before committing to a used BEV purchase.
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