Electric Vehicle Maintenance: What You Need to Know
When it comes to maintenance, electric vehicles (EVs) require less care than conventional vehicles. That's because EVs have fewer moving parts, less fluids to change and reduced break wear due to regenerative braking. Also, the battery, motor and electronics require little regular maintenance. However, there are a few maintenance tips that you should know about to keep your EV running smoothly.
Brakes
EVs typically use regenerative braking, which converts the kinetic (motion) energy lost during braking into stored energy in the battery for later use. This helps EV brake pads last longer, stretching out maintenance intervals.
Tires
Follow manufacturer's guidelines regarding regular tire rotation to help extend the life of your tires. Also, keep your tires properly aligned and tire pressure at recommended levels, which will help increase vehicle range between charges.
Coolant
EVs use coolant, just like conventional vehicles, except it is used to keep power converters and batteries cool. Maintain coolant levels following manufacturer's recommendations.
Fluids
Besides coolant, the only fluids in your EV requiring maintenance are the brake fluid and windshield wiper fluid. Check and replace brake fluid following the instructions in your owner's manual. Replenish wiper fluid as needed. Other fluids are typically sealed and cannot be accessed.
Battery
The advanced batteries used in EVs are designed for extended life, but will wear out eventually. EVs typically come with extended warranties for their batteries. Check with the manufacturer regarding warranty specifics, as well as battery replacement and recycling options.
Most battery systems use liquid coolant to maintain safe operating temperatures. These systems may require regular checks. Ask your dealer or refer to your owner's manual for more information.
What's not on your maintenance checklist
Remember all those oil changes and engine air filter and spark plug replacements from your old conventional vehicle? Well, you can forget about them because EVs don't have those parts. Exhaust system maintenance is also a thing of the past because your EV doesn't have a muffler or catalytic converter.
See how easy it is? Just follow all manufacturer's recommendations regarding vehicle maintenance, and then sit back and enjoy the ride.
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