Electric vehicles require less maintenance than gas-powered cars. After all, EVs have electric motors, regenerative braking, fewer moving parts, and less fluids.
But that’s not to say an electric vehicle is entirely maintenance-free. Below is a guide for how to service and maintain an EV so you can keep yours running like new even when it’s not.
EV Maintenance
An electric vehicle shares many of the same service and maintenance requirements as conventional cars. Things like tire pressure checks, windshield wiper replacements, exterior and interior washes, and air filter changes should all be performed at recommended intervals just like you would with a gas-powered car.
But there are also a few maintenance requirements that are slightly different from gas-powered cars or unique to electric vehicles altogether. Some of the most pertinent steps to maintain the health of your EV include:
Tire rotations
Regular tire rotations should be performed on any vehicle. But electric vehicles are heavier than gas-powered cars of the same size, and the extra weight can place additional strain on the tires. Plus, EV’s deliver instant torque which can also cause faster wear on the treads. You may need to rotate the tires in your EV at shorter intervals than your gas-powered cars, so consult your owner’s manual for guidance.
Battery Changes
While a battery plays a secondary role in a gas-powered vehicle, it’s the main component of an EV. The battery doesn’t actually require much maintenance, there are some things you can do to extend its life.
Avoid regularly fully charging and then fully depleting the battery, which can shorten the lifespan of the battery.
Coolant Top-Offs
The large batteries in electric vehicles take some extra effort to keep at the right temperature, so make sure you are more diligent about checking and topping off your coolant than you have been with your gas-powered cars.
Software Updates
Even more than other new cars, electric vehicles are like a giant computer and there are regular software updates to be made. Updating the software ensures the vehicle runs longer and more smoothly, monitors maintenance needs, and takes care of various safety and security issues. Stay informed about the available software updates for your EV and make those upgrades as soon as possible.
Learn More About Electric Vehicles
Which EV is right for you? Consult our electric vehicle buyer’s guide to determine which make and model is best for your needs.
Then, shop our inventory of new electric vehicles for sale along with our pre-owned EVs and discuss any service and maintenance questions with our expert staff. Zimbrick Automotive in Madison, WI, is your source for electric, hybrid, and flex-fuel vehicles. Come visit us today to test drive the vehicles of tomorrow.
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