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EV Buying Tip #8: Read the Fine Print on the Battery Warranty

Bryan Gardiner - Apr 24, 2023
Illustration by Betsy Falco

Warranty-wise, EVs are pretty similar to combustion vehicles. One thing to pay special attention to, however, is the fine print for the battery pack. 

While federal regulations mandate that battery packs be covered for at least eight years or 100,000 miles, many warranties can include some surprising exemptions and exclusions. Some manufacturers will cover the battery only in the case of a total failure. Others will replace it only when it reaches a specific reduced capacity — usually between 60 and 70 percent. And batteries can cost as much as $20,000 to replace. So it’s crucial to understand exactly what’s being covered and what isn’t before you buy an EV.

If you’re buying a used EV, know that not all warranties are transferable to subsequent owners! They can also vary from model year to model year, so do your homework. 

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