Electric vehicles (EVs) are revolutionizing the way people travel with their eco-friendly features and efficient performance. They don’t emit tailpipe emissions, nor do they require regular oil changes.
While EVs require less maintenance compared to conventional vehicles, this does not mean that you can skip going to your nearest service center. It’s important to follow proper care and maintenance routines to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
In this blog post, we will discuss ten essential maintenance tips for electric vehicles that every EV owner should know and practice at home.
1. Don’t Ignore the User’s Manual
We know it’s boring to read user manuals, but don’t skip reading them because they contain valuable information specific to your EV model, including recommended maintenance schedules, tire pressure guidelines, and battery care instructions. Following the guidelines outlined in the manual is crucial for keeping your EV in top shape. Hence, thoroughly read and understand the owner’s manual provided by the manufacturer.
2. Regularly Inspect and Maintain Tires
Maintaining proper tire pressure is essential for both the performance and efficiency of your electric vehicle. Check the tire pressure regularly and ensure it matches the recommended specifications provided in the owner’s manual. Additionally, inspect the tire tread for wear and rotate the tires as recommended to ensure even wear and prolong their lifespan.
3. Battery Health and Charging Habits
The battery is the powerhouse of electric vehicles. An EV is only as good as its battery. Hence, it needs regular maintenance and checks. Always get your EV inspected by certified EV mechanics instead of regular ICE vehicle mechanics. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to monitor and maintain the health of your EV battery. You can also follow these pro tips:
- Avoid excessive deep discharges
- Don’t regularly charge your EV to 100% (unless necessary)
- Keep the battery within the optimal temperature range
- Park your EV in a shaded area during hot weather to minimize heat exposure
4. Efficient Driving Techniques
Practicing efficient driving techniques can help extend the range of your EV and reduce wear on components. Accelerate and decelerate smoothly, avoid aggressive driving, and anticipate traffic conditions to minimize unnecessary energy consumption. Utilize regenerative braking whenever possible to recover energy and extend your EV’s range.
5. Maintain Cooling System
EVs rely on cooling systems to maintain optimal operating temperatures for batteries and power electronics. Regularly inspect and clean cooling vents to ensure proper airflow. If you live in a region with extreme temperatures, follow the manufacturer’s guide on additional cooling system maintenance to prevent overheating.
6. Brake System Inspection
While EVs utilize regenerative braking, traditional brake systems are still present and require periodic inspection. Ensure the brake pads are in good condition and have them replaced when necessary. Regular brake system inspections will help maintain efficient braking performance and ensure safety.
7. Wheel Alignments
Do you love driving at higher speeds? Then, you should not ignore wheel alignment. If you notice your electric vehicle shaking violently or pulling to either side, it’s time to get your wheel alignment balanced. It will improve the range of your electric vehicles and reduce tire tread wear.
8. Check and Replace Filters
Electric cars have cabin air filters that help maintain clean and fresh interior air quality. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for replacing these filters at the recommended intervals. Regularly inspect and replace other filters, such as the air filter for the HVAC system, to ensure efficient performance.
9. Software Updates
Stay up-to-date with software updates provided by the manufacturer. These updates often include performance enhancements, bug fixes, and new features. Regularly check for software updates and follow the instructions provided to keep your EVs systems running smoothly.
10. Scheduled Maintenance
Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for your EV. It includes routine inspections, fluid checks, and component replacements. Regular maintenance performed by authorized service centers will help identify any potential issues early on and ensure your EV operates at its best.
Conclusion
Owning an electric car comes with the advantage of reduced maintenance requirements compared to traditional vehicles. However, following these ten maintenance tips will help ensure the longevity, efficiency, and optimal performance of your electric car. By taking care of your EV’s tires, battery, cooling system, and brakes and following recommended maintenance schedules, you can enjoy a smooth EV ride. Also, read this blog to know the “9 Pro tips you should know before buying your first electric vehicle.”
Follow Statiq to read more informative content about the EV industry.