BYD Used Cars UK: Buyer’s Guide for 2025
The UK’s electric vehicle market has seen rapid growth, and one brand quickly making a name for itself is BYD (Build Your Dreams). Known for their affordability, innovation, and impressive battery tech, BYD cars are increasingly appearing on the UK used car scene.
If you’re considering buying a BYD used car, this guide breaks down what to look for and how to make the most informed choice.
Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer or switching from another brand, here’s everything you need to know.
Why Buy a Used BYD Car in the UK?
BYD entered the UK car market relatively recently but has already won attention with its well-priced, tech-packed models like the Atto 3, Dolphin, and Seal. These cars are fully electric, come with long manufacturer warranties, and often cost significantly less than used Teslas or Volkswagens.
With rising fuel prices and growing demand for sustainable alternatives, a used BYD gives you the best of both worlds cost savings and eco-efficiency. For many UK drivers, it’s a smart, future-proof choice.
Key Models to Consider
Here’s a quick rundown of BYD’s most popular models currently available as used vehicles in the UK:
BYD Atto 3: A compact electric SUV, ideal for families. Offers great interior tech, solid range (~260 miles WLTP), and a smooth ride.
BYD Dolphin: A practical and efficient hatchback perfect for city driving. Offers fast charging, low running costs, and a surprisingly roomy cabin.
BYD Seal: A sleek electric saloon that’s ideal for drivers who want premium performance without the Tesla price tag.
Each of these models runs on BYD’s proprietary Blade Battery, known for its safety, durability, and long life.
What to Check Before You Buy a Used BYD
Buying a used car electric or not requires a careful approach. When shopping for a BYD used car, here are the key things to look out for:
1. Battery Health & Charging History
The battery is the heart of an EV. Ask for a battery health report or state-of-health (SoH) reading. Ideally, it should be above 85%. Low mileage doesn’t always mean a healthy battery charging habits matter, too.
2. Warranty Coverage
Most BYD models come with a 6-year (or up to ~93,750 miles) vehicle warranty and an 8-year battery warranty. Confirm what remains on the car you’re viewing and ensure the warranty is transferable to new owners.
3. Service & MOT History
Though EVs require less servicing than petrol cars, BYDs still need regular checks especially software updates and tyre wear. Ask for a complete MOT and service history, especially for models over 3 years old.
4. ADAS Features & Functionality
BYD cars come with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) like lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and emergency braking. During your inspection, ensure these features are responsive and up to date.
5. Charging Cable & App Account
Confirm the car comes with a full charging kit (Type 2 cable or CCS for rapid). Also, BYD uses a mobile app for some functions make sure the previous owner has unlinked their account.
Known Issues and Recalls: Stay Informed
While BYD models are praised for their quality, some used cars may be affected by earlier recalls or software bugs. Here’s what to check:
BYD Dolphin: Early units had a recall related to electric power steering (resolved via software updates).
BYD Seal: Some markets reported reverse camera issues; check for updates.
Software Glitches: Ensure the infotainment system has the latest firmware to avoid freezing or connectivity lags.
At Trade London Motor Sports, we pre-inspect every BYD vehicle for these common concerns before it’s listed for sale.
BYD vs Other EV Brands: How It Compares
So how does a used BYD stack up against other popular EVs like the Nissan Leaf, MG ZS EV, or Tesla Model 3?
| Feature | BYD Atto 3 | Nissan Leaf | Tesla Model 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Type | Blade (LFP) | Lithium-ion | Lithium-ion |
| Typical Range | ~260 miles | ~160–230 miles | ~250–300 miles |
| Warranty (UK) | 6 yrs / 93k mi | 3 yrs / 60k mi | 4 yrs / 50k mi |
| Value for Money | ✅✅✅ | ✅✅ | ✅ |
BYD offers standout value, especially for first-time EV buyers looking for warranty coverage and modern features without premium pricing.
Why Buy from Trade London Motor Sports?
Choosing the right dealer is just as important as choosing the right car. Here’s what sets us apart:
🔍 Thorough Pre-Sale Checks: Battery, MOT, service history, and HPI checks.
🛡️ Warranty Transparency: We help you verify and transfer BYD warranties with no hidden clauses.
⚡ EV Expertise: Our team knows BYD inside and out from diagnostics to software.
🚗 Test Drives Available: Experience how a BYD feels on real UK roads before you commit.
With locations across London, Reading, Luton, and beyond, we make it easy to find a used BYD that suits your lifestyle and budget.
Step-by-Step: How to Buy a Used BYD With Us
Browse Listings: Head to our website and search BYD cars by model, budget, or mileage.
Book a Viewing or Virtual Tour: See the car in person or online.
Request Inspection Report: We’ll show you battery health, service status, and more.
Choose Finance (Optional): We offer competitive, flexible plans.
Drive Away or Book Delivery: Simple handover, clear paperwork, and peace of mind.
Quick FAQs
Q: Is the Blade Battery safe?
A: Yes it’s tested against extreme heat, puncture, and impact. One of the safest EV batteries in the world.
Q: Can I charge a BYD at home?
A: Absolutely. All models are compatible with UK home wallboxes and public CCS rapid chargers.
Q: What’s the resale value like?
A: Strong thanks to warranty length, battery durability, and growing UK brand awareness.
Final Thoughts
A used BYD car offers serious value in 2025 especially for drivers looking to go electric without breaking the bank. Whether you’re leaning toward the Atto 3, Dolphin, or Seal, being informed before you buy is key.
Ready to explore your options?
👉 Browse BYD used cars at Trade London Motor Sports today and book your inspection with confidence.
