10 Questions to Ask Before Buying an EV (Philippines)

The best time to ask the hard questions about an EV is before you buy, not after. Getting clear answers on the battery warranty, charging, after-sales service and the true total price protects you from unpleasant surprises later. Here are the ten questions worth asking any dealer, with why each one matters.

About the battery and warranty

The battery is the heart of an EV's value, so start here.

• 1. What exactly does the battery warranty cover, and for how long? Most EVs carry around 8 years or 150,000 km, but the terms and the degradation threshold vary, as our guide to EV battery warranties explains. Get the specifics in writing.
• 2. What is the overall vehicle warranty? Separate from the battery, understand the general warranty length and what it includes.
• 3. What happens if the battery needs service or replacement? Understand the process and where it would be done.

About charging

You will charge this car for years, so be clear on it.

• 4. What connector does it use for home and fast charging? Confirm it matches the Philippine network, which our connector guide covers.
• 5. Is a home charger or cable included, and what do I need to install one? This affects your setup cost, covered in what your home needs for a charger.
• 6. What is the real-world range I should expect? Push past the brochure figure for an honest everyday number, as our guide to what affects range explains.

About service and ownership

• 7. Where do I get it serviced, and how available are parts? Dependable after-sales support matters for any car, especially a newer technology.
• 8. What routine maintenance does it actually need? EVs need less than petrol cars, but confirm the schedule, as our guide to EV maintenance describes.

About price and perks

• 9. What is the complete out-the-door price? Get the full total including all fees, not just the headline figure, so you can compare fairly.
• 10. What EV perks and incentives apply? From the number coding exemption to LTO perks, understand what you benefit from, as our guide to the EVIDA law and number coding exemption explain.

Ask these during your test drive, and you will have everything you need to decide with confidence. The full process is in our step-by-step buying guide.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most important question to ask when buying an EV?

What the battery warranty covers and for how long, in writing. The battery is the most valuable component, so understanding its coverage, typically around 8 years or 150,000 km, is essential before you commit.

Should I ask about charging before buying?

Absolutely. Confirm the connector type, whether a charger or cable is included, what a home installation needs, and the realistic everyday range. Charging shapes daily ownership, so clarity here prevents surprises.

How do I avoid hidden costs?

Ask for the complete out-the-door price including all fees, not just the sticker. Also clarify home charging setup costs and any financing terms, so you see the true total before deciding.

What perks should I ask the dealer about?

Ask which EV incentives and perks apply, such as the number coding exemption and LTO perks. Confirm the details yourself too, since rules can change, but the dealer should be able to point you in the right direction.