Pre-purchase checks and tips for hybrids, and electric vehicles
A few weeks back, Jeff Wilkerson got in touch via email with a question that’s becoming more popular these days.
“I’m considering a used Toyota Prius or Ford C-max as a second family vehicle,” Wilkerson said. “We want something flexible with a bit of room and something very good on fuel. We’ve never owned a hybrid before and I’m wondering if you’d recommend any specific checks before we make our purchase?”
Electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars have been around for some years now and are popping up more commonly in the usedcar marketplace. But since these machines represent relatively new technologies, used car shoppers aren’t sure what to expect, what to do, or where to focus their attention, from a used-car shopping standpoint.
After all, electric vehicles (EVS), hybrid cars and plug-in hybrids have some pretty unique components, including drive batteries, modules, motors, inverters and more. Much of this componentry is new and unproven.
If you’re considering a hybrid, EV or plug-in hybrid, like the Wilkerson family, be sure to read on for a list of pre-purchase checks and tips, below.
Use the dealer: The biggest advice, first: Given the compli- cated and often-proprietary nature of many hybrids and EVS, the vehicle’s dealer is the best place for a pre-purchase inspection. The dealer has speciallytrained staff experienced with hybrid and electric powertrains, as well as special equipment to help detect, diagnose and repair any issues. They’ve also got access to additional resources that can help fix any detected issues, fast.
Diagnostic scan: The diagnostic scan is a powerful weapon against surprises and headaches when buying any used car and getting one before you buy is even more important when con- sidering a hybrid or EV, since they have additional systems and components beyond those found in conventional cars. A dealer technician can complete a diagnostic scan in minutes, on the relative cheap, to deeply scan a multitude of vehicle systems and reveal potential issues in quick order. Note that not all problems cause a check-engine light to illuminate, so this scan is a good idea whether you see one, or not.
Updated software: The hybrid or EV you’re considering may need software updates to improve or optimize its operation, just like your laptop or smartphone. Running the latest avail- able software on a vehicle like this can improve safety, mileage, battery durability and more.
Some software updates can even enhance performance and comfort, or prevent unwanted battery drain while the vehicle is parked. Work with the vehicle’s dealer to ensure all applicable software updates have been installed to the hybrid or EV you’re considering, for maximum likelihood of trouble-free motoring.
Nissan Canada’s quality assurance department comments about software updates, particularly around the brand’s popular EV model, the LEAF.
“Software system updates for LEAF, which are issued through service bulletins, are just as important as they are for other vehicles. A dealership can check to confirm if a vehicle has all the software updates applicable to that vehicle, and to perform an update.”
Check the charging provisions: If you’ll buy a plug-in hybrid, or a full EV, then this vehicle should come with at least one charging cord and adaptor, which plugs into a power outlet to recharge its battery. Don’t forget to inspect this charging gear carefully: frayed wiring, worn insulation, damaged plug ends and other signs of excessive wear or age can represent a fire or electrocution hazard and are good cause to replace the charging gear, which can be pricey.
Batteries: In your writer’s years of research, I’ve yet to come across more than a handful of owners reporting failure of the drive battery on their EV or hybrid. Some dealers have a test that can scan or test the drive battery to assess its condition, and others don’t. All batteries deplete over time, but modern hybrids carry a lengthy warranty (eight years) on their components, including the larger drive battery.
Instead, shoppers are advised to focus their efforts on the standard 12-volt battery, which tends to be far more problematic. In a hybrid or EV, a weak or dying 12-volt battery (which powers accessories, the starter, and other electronics), can cause a slew of issues with other vehicle systems.
Three tips: First, remember that your hybrid or EV has a great big battery for driving the wheels and (likely) a smaller, conventional 12-volt battery to power everything else. Second, be sure that the smaller 12-volt battery and charging system are in tip-top shape for maximum likelihood of minimal issues. And finally, trickle-charge that 12-volt battery when your ride is parked for more than a few days, for an extra layer of protection. Justin Pritchard is an automotive consultant and a member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC). http://justinpritchard.ca/