
Projected Range Comparison
Did you know that every pre-owned EV has a readout of its projected range? Car dealers can compare the current range (when fully charged) with the original projection for that make, model, and year.
Typically, there’s a one to two percent yearly difference between the original battery range and the present projection, according to the MWG. As EV batteries age, they gradually lose capacity due to factors like temperature, charging habits, and overall wear. This gradual degradation impacts the projected range over time.
When car dealers check the projected range comparison of a used EV battery, their looking at things like battery degradation, real-world usage and overall comparing the projected range of a specific EV model across different climates and usage patterns. This would allow them to make informed decisions about whether a used electric vehicle battery is any good.
Recurrent Reports
Car dealers can also use resources like Reccurent Reports to get a battery test. It’s essentially an EV battery monitoring tool that uses advanced machine learning to share performance data of a given EV compared to similar EVs in the system, says Electrek.
The reports from Recurrent can check the vehicle’s battery management system, recording odometer mileage, state of charge, estimated range, and charging status. It then generates monthly battery health reports, providing insights into battery performance and degradation. As you can imagine this type of information is really useful to car dealers.
Used car dealers can use Recurrent to provide a full report on the battery health of that specific vehicle. This transparency helps used car dealers to evaluate the battery’s condition and make informed decisions.

Pre-sale Inspection Reports
Battery pre-sale inspection reports can play a crucial role in helping car dealers determine whether an EV battery is in good condition. For example, car dealers may request a battery test through Recurrent Reports so they can analyze factors affecting battery health.
They can review any evidence of battery damage or suspicious notes within the pre-sale inspection reports. They can also look out for signs like crashes or other issues related to battery health, says MWG. It’s information like this within the reports that can help car dealers decided whether the used battery is any good or if any additional battery testing is needed.
Personal Drive Test
Car dealers may request a test drive of a fully charge the EV. Car dealers may decided to drive about a few miles or so in ideal conditions (no A/C or heating, no hills, and no speeding). If the projected range decreases by about the same number of miles, the battery is likely in good health.
Manufacturer-Specific App
For more robust data, car dealers could connect the EV to an OBD2 scanner using the manufacturer-specific app. This would allow them to access detailed battery diagnostics.

Car dealers have a wide range of tools and resources available to them. Car dealers could even consider consulting an experienced mechanic or dealership specializing in electric vehicles who could provide additional insights into battery health and potential degradation.
Battery health is subjective and influenced by various factors, but tools like Recurrent offer valuable insights for both current and prospective EV owners, says Motor Trend.