Are You Getting Ripped-Off Buying a Used Hybrid?

Right now is an unprecedented time in every aspect of the automotive industry. New vehicle inventory is in short supply, and prices are rising. The available crop of used vehicles is thin, and prices are rising. Electric cars are coming soon, and those prices will probably be up there for a while as well. And, how could we forget that the cost of gasoline is anything other than an actual living nightmare? None of that changes the fact that people need vehicles, and they need them to be as fuel-efficient as humanly possible. So, is buying a used hybrid worth it? If you can find something in your price range, absolutely. However, like anything else in the automotive world, buying a used hybrid sedan, hatchback or SUV will have pros and cons.

Reasons Buying a Used Hybrid is Worth it

The first and most apparent reason buying a used hybrid vehicle is worth it comes down to price. Even with the secondary auto market as hot as it is right now, a pre-owned vehicle is still very likely cheaper than a brand-new version of the same model. That’s just the nature of automotive depreciation, and nobody likes it, and we all have to live with it. Let’s look at a few more reasons not to overlook a used hybrid platform.

• Used Hybrids Are Still Super Efficient — Even with a few thousand miles on the odometer, a pre-owned hybrid platform is still going to be able to deliver excellent fuel economy scores. Given the forecast for the price of gas, every stop at the gas station that can be avoided is helpful.
• Lower Chance of Problems — A lot of hybrid platforms have proven themselves to be a bit easier to maintain. Several studies have shown that those components last longer because hybrid systems capture energy from the brakes and transmission to recharge the battery system.
• Long-Lasting Warranties — Automakers have been very generous in providing long warranties for their hybrid models, many lasting between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. Any remaining coverage from the original warranty can often be passed to subsequent owners.

What Should I Watch Out for When Buying a Used Hybrid?

A certain amount of due diligence goes into buying a pre-owned vehicle. However, when purchasing a used hybrid vehicle, paying particular attention to the various electrical components is crucial. Finding a neutral mechanic with experience servicing hybrid cars will be essential to making a sound decision. Additionally, don’t make any decision about buying a used hybrid vehicle without seeing a vehicle history report.

Are Hybrids Expensive to Repair?

Every hybrid car has a battery system, usually nickel-metal-hydride or lithium ion. The former is less expensive to repair than the latter in most cases. In terms of price, a replacement hybrid battery system can cost between $1,000 and $5,000. However, some batteries can have individual cells replaced, which is significantly less expensive.

All in all, a used hybrid that has been well-maintained is an excellent option. However, like buying anything used vehicle, a certain amount of caution must be taken to ensure you aren’t stuck with a lemon.