Used EV checklist

Pre-purchase inspection for an EV

Checks

Readiness

0%

Critical checks missing — don't buy without them: Battery SOH (LeafSpy/diag) ≥80%; DC charging works at rated power; Battery never removed/repaired after a crash; Clean VIN (not totaled/flooded)

The battery is everything in a used EV — replacement costs $5–15k. Mandatory: SOH diagnostics (LeafSpy for Nissan, CarScanner+OBD for others, dealer report), a DC-charging test, cooling check. US Copart imports are often totaled/flooded — the battery can be damaged with no visible signs. Service history and charging logs are a plus.