Used EV Repairs More Likely to Involve Chargers Than Batteries, Study Finds

Concerns about the longevity and repair costs of electric vehicle (EV) batteries in the second-hand market are largely unfounded, according to new research. Data from used car warranty provider Warrantywise reveals that most repair requests for used EVs stem from non-powertrain components, with battery issues being relatively uncommon.

Electrical system troubles, including sensor and central locking mechanism failures, represent the main issues reported for pre-owned EVs. Between January 2023 and January 2026, Warrantywise analyzed repair requests, finding that electrical system issues topped the list.

Sensors were the most frequent repair category, averaging £809.59 per repair. Central locking mechanism failures followed, with an average repair cost of £899.44. Notably, EV battery-related repairs did not feature in the top five most common fault categories.

Costly Charger Repairs

The third most commonly reported fault category involved the EV's on-board charger system. These repairs proved to be significantly more expensive, with an average cost of £2,158.75. The most expensive single charger repair recorded reached £10,454.98, highlighting the potential financial impact of this component failing.

Suspension issues, specifically wishbone failures, ranked fourth, averaging £1,229.64 per repair. Another electrical system problem, the auxiliary battery (12V battery), was the fifth most common fault, costing an average of £532.94 to repair.

"The main battery on an EV is understandably the first thing many used EV buyers think about, but our data shows that the everyday components still matter," said Antony Diggins, managing director at Warrantywise. "A good used EV purchase should include the same checks you would make on any used car, plus a closer look at charging systems."

Growing Used EV Market

This research emerges as the market for used EVs continues to expand. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reported a 32 percent increase in used EV transactions annually during the first three months of the year.

To address concerns about unexpected repair costs, many drivers are increasingly opting for extended warranties. Warrantywise observed a 68.2 percent rise in EV warranty sales between 2024 and 2025. These warranties can cover various components, including auxiliary batteries, on-board chargers, braking systems, and key fobs, often including additional benefits like roadside assistance.