Pros and Cons of Buying a Used Hybrid

Hybrid cars are quickly gaining in popularity due to their cost-saving benefits and reduced dependence on fossil fuels. They are also more practical than fully electric cars, particularly as you don’t need to worry about the availability of electric charging stations.

Used hybrid cars are constantly entering the market and see increasing interest as a cost-effective, eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered cars. Here we’ll outline the pros and cons of buying a used hybrid as your next car.

What is a Hybrid Car?

Hybrid cars use two sources of power. They are powered by an Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) together with one or more electric motors. The battery pack in hybrid cars is charged by both the ICE and regenerative braking. A hybrid car’s dual power system can result in better fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

Not all hybrids are made the same, however, and it’s important to know the difference:

• Hybrid: A car that can run on an electric motor, the ICE, or a combination of both. They do not require plug-in charging.
• Plug-in hybrid (PHEV): These cars are like hybrids, but they can also be charged through an electrical outlet. They usually have larger batteries than hybrids and can last longer on electrical power before using the ICE.
• Electric vehicles (EVs): Unlike hybrids and PHEVs, EVs are completely powered by electricity and cannot be propelled by gas. They need to be charged from an external source.

Many buyers choose to opt for hybrids because they are more eco-friendly than gas-powered cars, but do not require the same charging as electric vehicles. This means they can keep the convenience of gas for longer trips without having to worry about needing to charge their car.

Pros of Buying a Used Hybrid

Fuel Efficiency and Cost Savings

The main attraction to hybrid cars is that they consume less fuel, meaning that they not only have a lower gas bill but that they’re also better for the environment.

Here’s an example provided by the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EPA) about the cost savings between the 2024 Toyota Corolla Hybrid and its gas-powered counterpart. If you drive 15,000 miles in one year, the hybrid model will save you $7.60 in fuel a week or $395 over a year, which is quite significant.

Environmentally Friendly Choice

Due to its electric capabilities, hybrid cars have lower emissions and a reduced carbon footprint. Moreover, hybrid car technology has made a large contribution to sustainability.

In addition to improved fuel efficiency and reduced dependence on fossil fuels, hybrids contribute to reducing air pollution in urban areas with high traffic. They are also quieter than gas-powered cars. This is because the electric motor is quieter than the ICE, meaning there is less noise pollution.

Depreciation and Lower Purchase Price

Due to rapidly increasing technological innovations, new hybrids lose value quickly, making used hybrid cars more attractive and affordable.

For example, a new 2024 Toyota Corolla Hybrid would cost you around $24,595, however, a used 2023 model would be around $17,000, marking a significant difference with a very small difference in age and usage.

Tax Incentives and Rebates

Some states offer incentives for hybrid car buyers, even for used models, because of their environmental benefits. That said, this can often depend on specific criteria and is always subject to change. Utility companies have also offered incentives for charging equipment for PHEVs.

Buyers can check for state and local hybrid incentives on government websites, as well as the US Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC). You can also check the Plug in America website, a non-profit that promotes and advocates for the use of plug-in cars.

Lower Maintenance Costs (in Some Cases)

Hybrid cars can have lower maintenance costs:

• Braking: Regenerative braking reduces wear on brake pads and rotors.
• Oil: Fewer oil changes compared to gas cars as the gas engine does not run as often.
• Engine: Electric motors reduce strain on the gas engine resulting in engine longevity.
• Battery life: Hybrid batteries are designed to last for a long time and often come with warranties of 8 years or more. They are also built to be more durable than those in gas-powered cars.
• ICE: Electric motors mean less strain on the ICE, leading to fewer repairs.
• Transmission: Most hybrids have a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with less parts than traditional transmission, meaning less replacement and repair.
• Fluid: As the ICE doesn’t run as much in a hybrid car, the engine requires less transmission fluid and coolants as it is under less stress.

Cons of Buying a Used Hybrid

Battery Life and Replacement Costs

Hybrid battery lifespan is typically between 8 and 10 years. When it degrades it will be less able to hold a fuel charge and will impact performance. The car’s electric-only range will reduce as it relies more on the gas engine, which will also decrease fuel efficiency. There is also a potential for loss of power as the electric motor may not be able to effectively assist the gas engine.

The cost of replacing a hybrid battery can range between $2,000 and $6,000, making replacement expensive.

Higher Repair Costs for Certain Components

When it comes to repairs, hybrid-specific parts like inverters and electric motors can be expensive. Fewer independent mechanics specialize in hybrid repairs, which drives up costs.

Lower Resale Value Compared to Gasoline Cars

Some used hybrids have poor resale value due to battery replacement concerns. However, that isn’t always the case, the Toyota Prius has a 5-year residual value of 68.92%, while the Toyota Camry has a 5-year residual value of 65.09%.

Moreover, as the technology is advancing quickly, older hybrids seem outdated to buyers, affecting resale value. That said, that same advancement in new technology and what it can offer is narrowing the depreciation rate between hybrid and gas-powered cars. As hybrid cars become more mainstream, used models are becoming more attractive.

Performance Differences

There can be noticeable differences between driving hybrid and gas cars:

• Power: Gas cars often have higher power and faster acceleration. That said, hybrids often have good acceleration from the electric motor.
• Fuel efficiency: Hybrid cars outperform gas-powered cars when it comes to fuel efficiency because of electric power.
• Towing: Most hybrid cars are not designed for towing and only have light towing capacities compared to gas-powered cars.
• Handling: Hybrids are sometimes less responsive than gas cars because they prioritize fuel savings over performance.
• Noise: Hybrid cars are generally quieter than gas cars when using electric power and can be completely silent at low speeds.
• Braking: Regenerative braking in hybrid cars allows energy to be recycled, meaning less wear on brake pads and better energy efficiency.

Things to Check Before Buying a Used Hybrid

Get a Battery Health Report

The hybrid battery is the most expensive part to repair and a critical component of the car. It is important you know its health status before you buy to avoid costly repairs. Moreover, if it is not functioning at its peak, it could affect performance and fuel efficiency.

You should have a good idea of a hybrid battery’s lifespan because you don’t want to buy a used hybrid with an already degraded battery. You can get a battery inspection at a repair shop or service center.

Review the Vehicle History Report

As with buying any car, it’s important to check the Vehicle History Report (VHR) for any previous accidents, mileage discrepancies and title status issues, which might cause problems down the line.

It’s also important to ask for the car’s maintenance records as hybrids require regular servicing.

Consider a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) by a Hybrid Specialist

It is recommended that you ask a hybrid-specific mechanic to inspect the car before buying. They are preferred as not all mechanics have experience and expertise in assisting with hybrid cars.

A hybrid pre-purchase inspection could cost between $150 and $300.

Is Buying a Used Hybrid Worth It?

Hybrid cars have many environmental and economic benefits but they are not for everyone. Here’s who we think would be best suited to a hybrid, gas or EV vehicle:

Hybrid:

• Commuters: Hybrids are ideal for stop-and-go traffic as the electric motor will offer efficient power.
• Compromisers: Hybrids offer a middle point between gas and EV cars. They are great for the eco-conscious driver who has anxiety about - or a lack of access to - charging infrastructure.

Gas:

• Long-distance drivers: A gas-powered car will have a more powerful engine than hybrids on highways.
• Budget-conscious drivers: Gas cars are significantly cheaper than hybrids and EVs

EV:

• Eco-friendly drivers: EVs are the greenest option as they produce no emissions while driving.
• Tech enthusiasts: EVs generally have the latest technology and are ahead in automotive innovation

Hybrids are a good compromise between gas and electric cars, but you should also consider budget and driving habits before making a decision.

While the cost of replacing a hybrid battery is high, hybrid battery life can last up to ten years. Hybrid car maintenance is also lower due to their lower engine stress which can result in cost savings on top of reduced fuel dependency. This is all in addition to the eco-friendly benefits of driving a used hybrid.