4 Key Factors to Consider While Buying Used Hybrid Cars

A few years ago, finding a used hybrid car in good condition would have been quite hard. However, over the past few years, the demand for hybrid cars has increased significantly due to the rising gas prices. Therefore, now you can easily find various used hybrid cars for sale.

If you want to purchase any used car, it's always important to check its condition before buying it. The same is true for hybrid cars. However, there are significant differences between a normal car and a hybrid car, so the factors you must consider are different.

When you start looking for second-hand hybrid cars, you must check the following things before finalizing your purchase.

1. Type of hybrid car

There are three main types of hybrid cars, Parallel, Series, and Plug-in. It's important to consider the technology before buying a used hybrid car, as it will determine how much fuel your car will use and how you need to refuel it.

A parallel hybrid car uses both the electric motor and the engine simultaneously. It may use either system individually for short periods. You only need to use gasoline to fuel these cars since the electric motor powers through the battery.

In a series hybrid car, the engine powers the electric motor which runs the car. These cars never use the engine to move the car directly. They typically use more gasoline than a parallel hybrid car, but they run like an electric vehicle.

The plug-in hybrid cars are completely different from the other two types as they have a much larger battery than a parallel or series hybrid. They need to be recharged using a charging port, like an electric vehicle. They can run completely on electricity or use both the motor and the engine like a parallel hybrid.

2. Battery Warranty

Regardless of which type of hybrid car you choose, it's very important to check the condition and warranty of the traction battery. Most manufacturers offer an 8-year 100,000 miles warranty on the traction battery, but typically the battery wears out around year 6 or 7. Replacing the traction battery can cost three to five thousand dollars, so it's not worth buying a hybrid car with an older battery.

When you start looking at used hybrid cars for sale, you should always see if the battery has been newly replaced or if it's still under warranty. If the car has more than 40,000 miles on it, the battery will likely start to deteriorate from then onwards, so you should always get it checked out by a mechanic before buying it.

3. Mileage

Just like with any other car, you should always check the car's mileage before buying it. Hybrid cars are not much different than normal cars when it comes to mileage; however, the biggest issue is with the batteries. 

The 12V battery on hybrid cars usually wears out much faster than a regular car. On a regular car, they last about five to eight years, whereas, on a hybrid vehicle, they last only three to four years. The traction battery that runs the electric motor will also wear out after six or seven years, and it will need changing.

So, if you're looking for used hybrid cars for sale, you should always check the mileage to determine if the batteries will need replacement soon. 

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4. Service Records

Like any other car, you should always check the service records of second-hand hybrid cars before buying them. If you cannot find service records, you should at least get a car history report. It will help you find out whether the car was ever in an accident or if it has any major defects.

Service records will also help you understand if the previous owner has maintained the car. Without proper maintenance, hybrid cars tend to have many problems, so checking the service records is extremely important.

In conclusion

Hybrid cars depreciate much slower than normal cars, so they usually cost more. A hybrid car's battery is also much more expensive than a normal car, and replacing it can cost you thousands of dollars. Therefore, considering the car's condition is essential because otherwise, you may end up paying a lot more for repairs later on.

It is also important to keep in mind that you'll spend a lot less money on fuel when you get a hybrid car. Moreover, the value of the car will not depreciate as quickly as a normal car, so if you decide to sell it, you'll get a good price.

If you're completely certain that you want to buy second-hand hybrid cars, you should always check the above-mentioned factors to ensure that you're getting a good deal.