Buying a second-hand electric vehicle is becoming a more attractive option for Melbourne motorists. With more EVs on Australian roads and an expanding range of used models available, buyers have more choices than they did a year ago.
But there’s one important question that many buyers overlook: how healthy is the battery you’re actually buying?
A used EV might look immaculate, have low kilometres and drive perfectly during a short test. None of these things confirms the condition of its high-voltage battery.
Before committing to a purchase, an independent battery health test and professional EV pre-purchase inspection in Melbourne can provide valuable information about the vehicle’s condition.
Why Are More Australians Considering Electric Vehicles?
Electric vehicle sales have increased significantly across Australia.
According to the Electric Vehicle Council, battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles represented 34.5% of Australian new-car sales in September 2026, compared with 16.1% in September 2025.
Combined EV sales reached 36,359 vehicles that month, an increase of 119% year-on-year.
These figures show how quickly EV adoption is growing. They also mean that electric vehicles are becoming an increasingly established part of Australia’s car market.
As more EVs enter the second-hand market, Melbourne buyers have opportunities to purchase models from Tesla, BYD, Hyundai, Kia, BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
However, electric vehicles use different technology from traditional petrol and diesel cars. Understanding that technology matters when assessing a used vehicle.
What Battery Problems Should Used EV Buyers Know About?
Battery Degradation and State of Health
Electric vehicle batteries gradually lose some of their original capacity as they age. This is known as battery degradation.
The rate of degradation can vary depending on the battery design, vehicle age, temperature exposure, charging habits and operating conditions.
A car with 40,000 kilometres is not automatically in better battery condition than one with 70,000 kilometres.
One useful measurement is State of Health (SoH), which estimates the battery’s condition relative to a reference when new.
For example, a battery with an SoH reading of 90% generally indicates that its assessed capacity is around 90% of the reference capacity. The precise interpretation depends on the testing method and manufacturer.
A degree of battery degradation is normal, but an unexpectedly poor result may warrant further investigation.
Why Dashboard Range Estimates Can Be Misleading
A used EV might display 400 kilometres of estimated range.
That doesn’t necessarily mean it will travel 400 kilometres under normal driving conditions.
The displayed range depends on several factors, including recent driving behaviour, temperature, road conditions and energy consumption.
More importantly, a dashboard range estimate is not the same as an independent battery health assessment.
Battery Cooling and Electronic Systems
Electric vehicles also rely on battery management systems, cooling components, sensors and high-voltage electronics.
Faults affecting these systems can influence charging, efficiency and vehicle performance.
Some problems may trigger dashboard warnings, while others require diagnostic testing to investigate.
This is why a general visual inspection alone may not provide enough information about a used EV’s condition.
What Is an Independent EV Battery Health Test?
A battery health test assesses information about the battery’s condition using compatible diagnostic equipment.
German Precision provides an independent EV Battery Health Test in Melbourne using AVILOO technology.
The AVILOO FLASH Test analyses battery information and generates an independent certificate.
According to AVILOO, the assessment includes:
- Battery State of Health
- Battery management system checks
- Individual cell voltage analysis
- Battery-related sensor and communication checks
- Comparison with similar vehicles
- Information about potential abnormalities
The FLASH Test takes approximately three minutes for supported vehicles and does not require a full battery discharge.
An independent certificate provides additional evidence about battery condition, rather than relying entirely on the vehicle’s own displayed information.
It is important to understand that battery testing cannot predict every future fault or guarantee battery lifespan. It provides a documented assessment at the time of testing.
How Can German Precision Help Used EV Buyers in Melbourne?
German Precision Vehicle Inspections offers a combined EV pre-purchase inspection and AVILOO battery health assessment.
Klaus Sturm brings more than 35 years of automotive industry experience to vehicle inspections throughout Melbourne.
The service combines two important assessments in one appointment.
1. Comprehensive vehicle inspection
Klaus checks the vehicle’s accessible mechanical components, bodywork, suspension, brakes, interior, electronic fault information and evidence of previous repairs.
Buyers receive a detailed inspection report, usually 38–52 pages, with photographs and an explanation of the findings.
2. Independent EV battery health assessment
The AVILOO test provides a separate battery certificate, including State of Health information and other relevant diagnostic findings.
German Precision offers mobile inspections at dealerships and private sellers’ locations, subject to suitable access and arrangements.
The combined EV inspection and battery health test starts from $525, with pricing dependent on vehicle type and location.
View German Precision’s EV Pre-Purchase Inspection Service.
What Should You Check Before Buying a Used EV?
Before purchasing a second-hand electric vehicle in Melbourne, consider these five checks.
1. Request a battery health report.
Ask for a recent independent certificate. If the seller cannot provide one, arrange testing on a supported model.
2. Check the battery warranty.
Many manufacturers offer battery warranties of approximately eight years or 160,000 kilometres, but the conditions and remaining coverage vary. Confirm the details for the specific vehicle.
3. Review the vehicle’s service and accident history.
Check maintenance records, previous repairs and outstanding recalls. A PPSR search can also identify recorded financial interests and available written-off or stolen-vehicle information.
4. Check the charging equipment.
Confirm that the supplied charging accessories are suitable, inspect their visible condition and investigate any reported charging issues.
5. Arrange a professional EV pre-purchase inspection.
An appropriately qualified inspector can assess the broader vehicle condition alongside the battery test. This helps you identify concerns before finalising the purchase.
The Australian Government’s EV buying guidance also recommends considering a specialist inspection and independent battery health information when purchasing a used EV.
Get Your Used EV Checked Before You Buy
Buying a second-hand electric vehicle can be a sensible decision, but the battery’s condition deserves careful consideration.
An independent battery health report, combined with a detailed vehicle inspection, can help you understand what you’re purchasing and reduce the risk of overlooking significant problems.
German Precision offers mobile EV inspections and independent AVILOO battery health testing across Melbourne.
Before committing to your next EV, speak with Klaus.
Book an EV Pre-Purchase Inspection or Request an EV Battery Health Test.
German Precision Vehicle Inspections
Melbourne, Victoria
Phone: 0421 083 390
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a used EV have battery problems even with low mileage?
Yes. Battery condition depends on more than mileage. Vehicle age, battery chemistry, operating temperatures and charging history can all influence degradation.
How long does an EV battery health test take?
German Precision's AVILOO FLASH Test generally takes approximately three minutes on a supported vehicle. A complete vehicle inspection takes longer, usually around 1.5 hours.
Is an EV battery health test worth it before buying?
An independent battery test can provide useful information about the battery's condition, particularly when comparing vehicles or investigating potential problems. It can help you decide if further checks are needed before purchase.
