Second Hand Electric Scooter Buying Guide – Top 10 Tips

The battery is the heart of an electric scooter (EV). The condition of the battery greatly affects the EV’s performance.

The first thing to consider is the battery size, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), which indicates how much electricity the battery can store and how far the EV can travel on a single charge.

It’s essential to have the battery thoroughly inspected.

Here are the best ways to assess a battery’s condition:

• Battery’s State of Health (SoH) – This tells you how healthy the battery is. The car’s system can show you the SoH and estimate how long the battery will last based on how it’s been used so far. The SoH can decrease if the battery is overcharged, frequently fast-charged or left unused for long periods.
• Charging Time – Fully drain the battery and recharge it to full capacity to indicate how long it takes to charge. The battery has likely lost some capacity if it takes longer than the manufacturer’s specified time.
• Warranty and Mileage – Check how much warranty is left on the battery and how many miles the vehicle has covered so far. Currently maximum of the OEMSs offer a battery warranty of 5 to 8 years.

2- TAKE A TEST DRIVE

Taking a proper test drive is crucial when purchasing a second-hand electric scooter. It allows you to verify if the scooter can achieve the expected range, speed, acceleration, and other performance metrics.

Ideally, take the scooter for a drive covering 10 to 20 kilometers. During this test, observe how much the battery drains over specific distances, which gives you an idea of its approximate range.

Additionally, thoroughly inspect the scooter’s exterior for any dents or scratches. Check the condition of essential components such as the motor, brakes, tires, and wheels to ensure everything is in good working order.

Also if, the owner allows you, take the scooter to the nearest service center, where an expert can tell you about the current cost of the electric scooter.

3- ENQUIRE ABOUT RANGE