Hybrid vehicles have been around since the late 1990s, but they become more popular every year.
, the hybrid vehicle market was valued at $231.77 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach $478.33 billion by 2028, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.83% from 2018 to 2028.
Part of what makes hybrid cars an attractive option is that they give you the best of gas and electric vehicles. On the one hand, you don’t have to rely on charging stations (hybrids still use regular fuel). On the other hand, you still get better gas mileage than gas-powered cars (due to the EV battery).
That said, not every hybrid vehicle for sale is a good deal. According to Tiger Okeley at , “Before buying a hybrid car, it’s extra important to get a professional inspection because there are so many more systems in them that could have issues.”
To get a better idea of whether a hybrid car is right for you, consider the pros and cons:
Pros of buying a used hybrid car
Better fuel economy. It’s no secret that hybrids get better gas mileage than their gas-powered counterparts. This is because hybrids are partly powered by batteries that are recharged by the gasoline engine and regenerative braking. According to , “Most hybrid SUVs get more than 35 mpg and most hybrid sedans get more than 45 mpg. That’s about a 40 percent improvement over non-hybrids, on average.”
Brakes and transmission stay in better shape. Hybrids convert energy from braking that is otherwise lost to recharge their batteries. This puts less wear on the brakes and transmission.
Reduced tailpipe emissions. Because hybrids go through less gas, they create less tailpipe emissions. This helps the environment and encourages a greener future.
Cons of buying a used hybrid car
Higher upfront cost. Hybrid cars tend to cost more than their gas-powered counterparts. However, they can save you money on gas in the long run.
Battery drain. Hybrid batteries deteriorate over time, reducing fuel economy. Most are designed to last 100,000 miles or 8 years—whichever comes first. After that, you may need to get the battery replaced or at least fix the bad cells in it. This can be expensive.
Poor battery health. Before buying a used hybrid, it’s crucial to get a detailed battery health report. This will tell you the condition of the battery. It may not have much life left in it. But if you’re lucky, the battery will be covered under warranty.
Complicated engines. Because they involve traditional internal combustion engines and an electric motor, hybrid engines can be complicated to work on. Finding a nearby mechanic who knows how to work on them may be a challenge.
The final verdict
Ultimately, the decision to buy a used hybrid car is up to you. Weigh your options and do your due diligence. This includes checking owner reviews on sites like and , getting a professional inspection, and taking the car for a test drive.
If you find that the hybrid suits your needs and you can find a good deal on one, go for it! If not, you may want to put a car purchase on hold or go with a traditional gasoline engine. You don’t want to rush into a deal only to experience the buyer’s regret later. If you’re not sure about a deal, sleep on it and see how you feel in the morning.