Used EV FAQ


What to Know Before Buying a Used Electric Car

Shopping for a used electric vehicle brings up plenty of questions, and getting real answers matters before you make the switch. As a third-generation family-owned and -operated Chevy dealership near Bloomington, Bob Grimm Chevrolet has been helping local drivers find the right vehicles since 1951. Now, we are here to break down what you should know about buying a pre-owned EV.

Whether you are curious about battery health, charging costs or how used electric cars hold their value, we have compiled the answers below. Read through our used EV FAQ, then browse our current selection of used Chevy electric vehicles in Morton to find a model that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Couple with salesman discussing car purchase in showroom

Frequently Asked Questions About Used EVs

How do I check the battery health on a used EV?

Battery health is the single most important factor when buying a used electric car. Most EVs display a state-of-health percentage or estimated range in the vehicle settings, and many manufacturers provide battery diagnostics through the onboard system. Our team can help you review the battery condition and history, so you know exactly what you are getting with one of our used EVs for sale near Bloomington.

Does a used EV still have battery warranty coverage?

In many cases, yes. Federal regulations require EV battery components to carry a minimum 8-year/100,000-mile warranty, so a newer used electric vehicle may still have years of coverage remaining. This transferable coverage adds real peace of mind for pre-owned EV buyers. We are happy to help you confirm the remaining warranty on any model you are considering.

Are used electric cars cheaper to maintain?

Generally, yes. Electric vehicles have far fewer moving parts than gas-powered cars, which means no oil changes, no transmission fluid swaps and fewer wear items over time. That said, used EVs still need routine care, including tire rotations, brake checks and software updates. When you pull into our service center, you will benefit from an immediate alignment check displayed on a large screen for your review, keeping everything fully transparent.

How much does it cost to charge a used EV?

Charging costs depend on your local electricity rates and where you charge, but home charging is typically much cheaper than filling up with gas. Central Illinois EV drivers who charge overnight often see significant monthly savings compared to fueling a traditional vehicle. Lower running costs are one of the biggest reasons Bloomington car buyers are making the switch to electric.

Do used EVs hold their value?

Used electric vehicle values have become far more stable as demand grows and charging infrastructure expands across Illinois. While depreciation varies by model, buying pre-owned lets you skip the steepest early value drop that new cars experience. A well-maintained used EV can be a smart, budget-friendly investment, especially when paired with one of our used car specials.

At Bob Grimm Chevrolet, we carry a lineup of electric Chevy models that are known for their resale values, including the Blazer EV, Equinox EV, Silverado EV and Bolt.

Is a used EV right for my daily driving?

For most commuters around Morton and Bloomington, absolutely. Modern used EVs offer plenty of range for daily errands, work commutes and weekend trips, and public charging continues to expand throughout the region. If you have questions about range or charging near your home, the sales team at our Morton Chevy dealership is ready to help without any pushy or high-pressure tactics.