Electric vehicles have started gaining popularity due to the trend of reducing carbon footprints. EVs have no diesel or petrol engines. Only an electric motor powers the vehicle and has rechargeable batteries, which need to be charged with electricity. So, you might have invested in an EV for a carbon-free future. However, like other cars, your electric vehicles need maintenance. Check the best EV maintenance tips and protect your investment.
Find the list of the best EV maintenance tips
With minimal effort, you can keep your electric car in the best condition. Your car will last longer with proper maintenance.
EV car battery
The most crucial part of your EV maintenance routine is battery health inspection. It is costly to replace the battery of your electric vehicle. That is why your battery must be in good health. Your electric car’s battery must not run flat. To prevent damage to your EV battery, many manufacturers recommend that the battery charge must not go below 20%. So, you have to inspect the charger cable and find the signs of damage. Evaluate the connectors and detect potential creases in external insulation. Let the professionals test your cable to ensure the smooth transfer of power.
The battery not only runs the car but also powers the EV’s-
- Door locking system
- Interior lights
- Navigation systems and several other items
When you charge the battery, you must read the owner’s manual.
Car tire
Like other vehicles, EVs’ tires need regular maintenance. The tires provide a strong grip when you corner the car or run the vehicle in adverse weather. Some EVs have low-rolling-resistance tires that boost the range and efficiency. So, although they wear out more slowly, it is costlier to replace them.
The most important step is to check the tire pressure, which is essential for longevity and grip. Read the manual and test the tire regularly.
The sidewalls and tread depth need to be checked to keep your tires safe. Automobile experts can confirm if your EV tires have the proper tread depth. They will also check the tire surface for signs of gouges.
Tire rotation is another significant step for your EV maintenance. The deterioration rate of your front tire is faster than the back one. The front tires help with steering and braking. Rotate the wheels of your electric vehicles from the front side to the rear.
EV’s motor
The electrically powered motor is the main part of the vehicle. Although it comprises only a few parts, you should check the motor occasionally. However, it is better to leave this task to professionals. If you try to do it on your own, there is a risk of experiencing an electric shock. Trained mechanics know how to keep the EV motor in a safe condition.
Brakes of your EV
Your electric vehicle’s brake system needs maintenance to ensure your safety. Regenerative braking systems are highly efficient and have a lower risk of wear and tear. Some high-performance EVs need a braking system that should stop the cars quickly.
Also known as regen, regenerative braking relies on the car’s kinetic energy to recharge its battery. After removing your foot from the accelerator, the electric motor is switched to the charging mode from the deploy mode.
You should check the brake discs and pads regularly. Your EVs can use the regen less than in the standard vehicle. On the contrary, it needs more maintenance, as it sits idle for hours. You should check for signs of rust in the brake pads and discs. If you have heard any odd sound, your brake system needs attention. You can use a brake cleaner for this purpose.
The brake fluid also needs replacement regularly. Check the manual and find instructions on the frequency of replacing the fluid. Most experts think it is essential to add new brake fluid every 2 years.
Windscreen
Having a well-maintained windscreen in your vehicle is vital. if there are chips or cracks within your eye line, you have to fix it with a technician’s help.
Even if there are minor cracks, you must repair them. Chips and cracks will easily become bigger and cause the replacement of the windscreen. Let your automobile experts find the damage signs in your windscreen. They will fix the cracks using the right tools. You will not need to replace the windscreen.
You should have a washer fluid to clean the windscreen while running the car. Make sure the wipers are working properly and are clean. Use a damp cloth to keep the wiper blade clean. If you have noticed signs of cracks in the rubber, you should replace the damaged wiper blade.
Inspect the coolant level
Like traditional vehicles, electric cars need coolant. However, the temperatures of your EV battery must be at a proper level. If the battery temperatures have any issues, it may cause fire or other damage.
Based on the instructions in the manual, you have to inspect the coolant level. While traditional cars allow you to top up the radiator, EV cooling units need to be sealed. You need the assistance of a qualified expert to deal with the coolant.
EV transmission
The gearboxes of electric vehicles are very simple. The electric motor creates an instant torque, which eliminates the need for using a conventional multi-speed gearbox. So, most electric cars have a single-speed gearbox. The EV transmission has a simplicity that allows you to maintain it without much effort. But, some new EVs do not need gearbox servicing as a part of the regular maintenance.
Conclusion
Automobile experts can provide you with the best EV maintenance tips. You can create a schedule to inspect your EV regularly. Professionals know how to check every part of your vehicle and determine potential issues. They will repair the components or replace the damaged ones. Automobile mechanics have innovative tools to deal with different parts of your electric vehicle. They ensure the longevity of your car parts with thorough maintenance.