Used Car Market Shifts as Consumers Now Factor in Battery Health and Total Cost of Ownership

The used vehicle market is beginning to experience a shift as more electric vehicles are utilised on the roads. The presence of electric vehicles means that consumer considerations when purchasing a used car are no longer solely focused on price and the physical condition of the vehicle.

Prospective buyers are now starting to account for several other factors, ranging from maintenance costs and energy consumption to battery condition and the potential resale value of the vehicle.

This change in consideration patterns is creating new dynamics within the used vehicle business. Market players are now required not only to understand the selling price of a unit but also to look at the total cost of vehicle ownership.

Ferdian Kusuma Putra, owner of Garasi 91 and an automotive observer and enthusiast, stated that the difference in considerations is evident when consumers compare conventional cars with used electric vehicles.

For conventional cars, consumers generally enquire about fuel consumption, periodic servicing, the availability of spare parts, and potential repair costs.

Meanwhile, for used electric vehicles, consumer questions are shifting towards more specific aspects such as battery condition, charging costs, warranty periods, maintenance, and after-sales service.

“For used electric vehicles, consumers are starting to ask about battery condition, charging costs, warranty periods, maintenance, and the availability of after-sales services,” said Ferdian in a statement on Thursday, 1 October 2026.

Purchase Price is No Longer the Sole Consideration

This shift indicates that consumers are beginning to evaluate vehicles from the perspective of long-term ownership costs.

According to Ferdian, consumers are no longer just looking at whether a vehicle’s price fits their financial capabilities. Beyond that, they are also considering the ability to use and maintain the vehicle.

This situation makes the calculations performed before buying a used car much broader. Consumers are starting to pay attention to the costs that arise after the vehicle changes hands.

“Now, consumers do not stop at the question of price. They are starting to ask: after the car is bought, how much is the maintenance, what is the daily consumption, and what will its value be when it is eventually resold,” said Ferderm.