EV Pre-purchase Inspection FAQs

What does an EV pre-purchase inspection include?

An EV pre-purchase inspection assesses the condition, safety and performance of a used electric vehicle before you buy it. It typically covers the high-voltage battery (if add on battery test included), charging system, electric motor, brakes, tyres, suspension, steering, bodywork, electronics and safety systems. The vehicle is also checked for diagnostic fault codes, visible damage and signs of poor repairs or maintenance.

How is an electric vehicle’s battery health and remaining capacity tested?

EV battery health is assessed using available vehicle data, diagnostic scanning and performance checks. Where the vehicle supports it, the inspection may identify its battery state of health, usable capacity, cell balance, charging history and stored fault codes. These results help indicate how much the battery has degraded compared with when it was new. The information available can vary between EV makes and models.

Can an EV inspection identify battery degradation and estimate real-world driving range?

An EV inspection can identify signs of battery degradation and provide a clearer picture of the vehicle’s likely range. Battery data, energy consumption, displayed range and vehicle performance may all be considered. However, real-world range also depends on temperature, driving style, speed, terrain and accessory use, so no inspection can guarantee an exact number of kilometres per charge.

Are the charging system, charge ports and high-voltage components checked?

Yes. An EV inspection should assess the charging port, charging cables supplied with the vehicle, onboard charging system and accessible high-voltage components. The inspector may also check for charging faults, warning lights, damaged connectors and stored diagnostic codes. Physical access and manufacturer restrictions may limit how closely sealed high-voltage components can be examined.

What are the warning signs of an accident-damaged or poorly maintained used EV?

Common warning signs include uneven panel gaps, mismatched paint, damaged battery protection, warning lights, charging faults, irregular tyre wear and missing service records. Damage underneath the vehicle is particularly important because the battery pack is often mounted below the cabin. A professional inspection can identify visible concerns, although it may not detect every concealed repair or internal fault.

How much does an EV pre-purchase inspection cost, and is it worth getting one?

The cost of an EV pre-purchase inspection is $249 for a standard check or $399 if you would like to include a battery test as part of the inspection. It can be a worthwhile investment because EV batteries, charging equipment and power electronics can be expensive to repair or replace. An independent report can help you avoid an unsuitable vehicle, negotiate with confidence or budget for upcoming repairs.

What happens if the car is sold after I book and pay for an inspection?

If the vehicle is sold before the inspection takes place, please contact us as soon as possible and we can transfer the inspection to another vehicle.