Buying a used electric car can be a smart way to save money, but not all EVs age gracefully. Some suffer from battery degradation, others have expensive repair needs, and a few are plagued by quirks that make long-term ownership more trouble than it is worth. Here are five models you may want to think twice about before signing the papers — complete with real-world cost considerations and what you can expect to pay on the used market in 2025.
Nissan Leaf
The Nissan Leaf, especially models built before 2018, lacks liquid-cooled battery technology, meaning its packs degrade faster in warm or extreme climates. Owners have reported losing up to 30 percent of range in under eight years. An early Leaf might have started with a 150 km (93 mile) range, but by the time you buy it used, you could be looking at only 100 km (62 miles) or less. Battery replacement can cost between $6,000 and $9,000, which often exceeds the car’s resale value. In 2025, you can find older Leafs for as little as $6,500, but the savings may disappear when you factor in repair bills and reduced usability.
BMW i3
The i3 was designed as a premium city EV with a futuristic carbon fiber body and airy cabin. Unfortunately, its small early batteries (60 Ah) struggle to exceed 120 km (75 miles) of real-world range after a few years, and even the later 94 Ah models degrade noticeably. Repairs to the carbon fiber body panels are eye-wateringly expensive, and replacement parts can take weeks to source. Common electrical issues include malfunctioning infotainment units and charging port failures. Used prices in 2025 range from $12,000 to $20,000, but any savings can quickly vanish if you need specialist work that is only available at certified BMW service centers.
Fiat 500e
The Fiat 500e has undeniable charm, but it was originally sold as a compliance car in select states, meaning parts availability outside those markets can be frustrating. Its real-world range of about 135 km (84 miles) when new has often dropped to under 100 km (62 miles) in older examples. Battery replacements cost in the $7,000 range, and even minor repairs can require waiting for components to ship from overseas. Used 500e prices hover between $7,500 and $12,000 in 2025, but unless you live in a city with Fiat EV support, ownership can be more hassle than fun.
Tesla Model S (2012–2016)
Early Model S cars turned heads when they hit the streets, but many have now aged into high-maintenance territory. Common issues include failing drive units (around $4,000–$6,000 to replace), touchscreen failures due to worn-out memory chips ($1,500–$2,000), and battery degradation that can trim 20 percent or more off the original range. A new battery can easily cost $15,000–$20,000. While some used examples sell for $25,000–$35,000 in 2025, any car without proof of recent major repairs could be a ticking financial time bomb.
Chevrolet Spark EV
The Spark EV was sold in small numbers between 2014 and 2016, which makes it rare — and that rarity becomes a liability when you need parts. Its original range was around 132 km (82 miles), and degradation can make that drop below 100 km (62 miles) today. Owners have reported difficulty sourcing even basic components like charging equipment and drivetrain parts. While you might find one for $8,000–$10,000 in 2025, limited range and long waits for repairs make it more of a novelty than a practical daily driver.
25 Facts About Car Loans That Most Drivers Don’t Realize
Car loans are one of the most common ways people fund car purchases. Like any other kind of loan, car loans can have certain features that can be regarded as an advantage or a disadvantage to the borrower. Understanding all essential facts about car loans and how they work to ensure that you get the best deal for your financial situation is essential. Here are 25 shocking facts about car loans that most drivers don’t realize:
25 Facts About Car Loans That Most Drivers Don’t Realize
