EV Maintenance: How to Maintain Your Electric Vehicle

How to Maintain Your Electric Vehicle: Everything You Should Know About EV Maintenance

As the popularity of electric vehicles continues to rise, more and more people are considering purchasing a EV as a cost-effective alternative. In addition to helping the environment by not consuming gasoline and emitting emissions into the air, one of the key advantages of owning an electric car is that it requires less of your time and money to keep it running efficiently. Compared to cars with internal combustion engines, electric vehicles have fewer moving parts, which means there are fewer parts that require routine maintenance. However, it’s important to keep in mind that owning an EV requires some maintenance to ensure that the vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently. Regular EV maintenance not only keeps your EV in top condition but also extends its lifespan and helps preserve its value.

What maintenance tasks for electric vehicles should you be aware of? Check out this blog for the essential tasks of maintaining your used electric vehicle, from routine maintenance tasks to troubleshooting common issues.

EV Maintenance vs. Conventional cars

Even though you won’t need to change the oil,  electric vehicles still require some fluids to operate. Just like gas-powered vehicles, electric vehicles must keep their powertrain components cool in order to keep everything functioning properly. Heat is produced during the conversion of electricity into mechanical energy. To keep components from overheating, some models use air, while others use a coolant or refrigerant of some kind. Coolant is used in all electric vehicles with thermal management systems to heat and cool the motor and battery. For EVs that use coolant, it may be necessary to flush or recharge the system periodically. Also, no matter what the power source of your vehicle, you’ll need to routinely top off the windshield washer fluid. The same holds true for replacing the windshield wipers.

Additionally, similar to gas cars, electric vehicles also use brake fluid to adjust their binders. Regardless of your vehicle’s powertrain, flushing and replenishing this fluid at regular intervals is necessary maintenance. Although vehicle and manufacturer replacement cycles differ.

Hybrids and Plug-in Hybrids vs. EV Maintenance

Due to the presence of gas engines inside hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles, hybrids and plug-in hybrids maintenance schedules are similar to those of gas-powered vehicles. However, these vehicles’ electric motors enable regenerative braking, which slows down maintenance schedules. That means the brake rotors and pads tend to last longer in hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles than in gas-powered automobiles.

EV Maintenance

Electric vehicles need maintenance just like any other vehicle, however, they normally don’t require as much regular maintenance as a traditional car with an internal combustion engine. To make sure that your electric vehicle lasts for the long haul, it’s crucial to keep an eye on any necessary routine maintenance.

Keep the Battery in Good Condition

The battery is one of the most crucial components of an EV, and its maintenance is essential to ensure that the vehicle operates at peak performance. Here are some tips for maintaining your EV’s battery:

• Charge Your Battery Regularly: Regularly charging your EV’s battery helps to maintain its capacity and extend its lifespan. It’s recommended to avoid letting the battery fully discharge and instead keep it between 20% and 80% charge as much as possible. Since most EVs can go up to 500 kilometers on a single charge, it’s advisable to charge your battery at least once a week.

• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: One important aspect of EV battery maintenance is to avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures. High and low temperatures can be damaging to the battery cells. Your EV comes equipped with a coolant system that regulates the temperature of the battery and other components. Have the coolant system inspected and serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. It’s best to park your EV in a covered area, such as a garage, to protect the battery from extreme temperatures. In colder climates, using a block heater or preheating the battery before driving can also help extend its lifespan.

• Avoid Rapid Charging: One important tip to maintain the health of your EV’s battery is to avoid rapid charging whenever possible. Rapid charging can cause extra stress on the battery and ultimately shorten its lifespan. Instead, consider using slower charging methods, such as a Level 2 charger or a standard household outlet. While these charging methods may take longer to fully charge your battery, they are less likely to cause damage to the battery cells and can help extend the battery’s lifespan in the long run.

• Monitor Your Battery’s Health: monitor your battery’s health regularly to catch any potential issues early on. This can be done through your EV’s onboard monitoring system, which will alert you if there are any problems with the battery. If your EV doesn’t have this feature, consider investing in a third-party battery monitoring system. These systems can provide valuable information about the state of your battery, including its remaining capacity, charge level, and any potential issues. By monitoring your battery’s health regularly, you can catch any problems early on and address them before they become more serious.

Check the Tires Regularly

Checking the tires of your used EV regularly is another essential part of maintenance. Make sure to keep the tires inflated to the recommended pressure level, which is typically listed in the owner’s manual or on the driver’s door jamb. Overinflated or under-inflated tires can cause problems with handling, performance, and efficiency, and they can even increase the risk of accidents.

In addition to maintaining the correct tire pressure, it’s important to rotate the tires regularly to ensure that they wear evenly. Regular tire rotation helps ensure even wear and prolongs the life of your tires. Most EV manufacturers recommend rotating your tires every 8,000-10,000 kilometers. Uneven tire wear can cause issues with handling and performance, and it can even shorten the lifespan of your tires. Finally, make sure to regularly check your tire tread depth, as worn-out tires can significantly affect your EV’s handling and safety on the road.

Replace the Brake Pads When Necessary

Electric vehicles rely heavily on regenerative braking, which uses the motor to slow down the vehicle and recharge the battery. This means that the brake pads in an EV may last longer than those in a gas-powered vehicle, but they will still need to be replaced eventually.

To ensure the best performance and safety of your used EV, it’s important to replace the brake pads when necessary. Signs that it’s time to replace the brake pads include squeaking or grinding noises when braking, a longer stopping distance, or a soft or spongy brake pedal.

Keep the Interior and Exterior Clean

Keeping your electric vehicle clean is essential to maintaining its overall condition and protecting its resale value. Dirt, debris, and grime can accumulate on the exterior, leading to damage to the paint, which may eventually cause rust. Similarly, dust and grime inside the car can cause harm to the upholstery and other surfaces. Therefore, it is essential to regularly wash the exterior of your EV and keep the interior clean by vacuuming and wiping down surfaces. By doing so, you can prevent damage and prolong the lifespan of your vehicle, ensuring that it looks and feels new for a longer period of time.

Follow the Recommended Maintenance Schedule

Adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule is crucial to ensuring that your electric vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently. The maintenance schedule, which is typically listed in the owner’s manual, includes tasks such as changing the oil, replacing filters, and inspecting the vehicle’s various components. While an EV requires less maintenance than a gas-powered vehicle, it’s still essential to follow the recommended schedule. Skipping maintenance tasks or delaying them can cause problems with performance, efficiency, and safety, potentially leading to costly repairs in the long run.

Troubleshoot Common Issues

Regular maintenance is essential for the smooth and efficient operation of your electric vehicle, but even with proper care, issues can still arise. Recognizing and troubleshooting common issues can help you identify problems early and prevent them from becoming more serious. For instance, if you observe a decrease in your vehicle’s range or a longer charging time, it may indicate a problem with the battery or charging system. In such cases, it’s advisable to consult the owner’s manual or contact a qualified EV mechanic to diagnose and resolve the issue.

Regularly replace air filters

The cabin air filter in your EV is responsible for keeping the air inside your car clean and free of dust, pollen, and other allergens. It is recommended to replace this filter every 18,000-30,000 kilometers, or as per the manufacturer’s guidelines. However, depending on your driving conditions, you may need to replace it more frequently. Check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations. Dirty air filters can hinder your EV’s performance and efficiency, leading to reduced range and increased maintenance costs. So, it’s essential to replace the air filter regularly to maintain your EV’s optimal performance.

Stay up to date with software updates 

Regular software updates are essential for ensuring that your electric vehicle is running smoothly and efficiently. Similar to smartphones and computers, these updates can fix bugs, enhance performance, and add new features. You should check with your EV manufacturer to see if there are any available software updates, and make sure to keep your EV’s software up to date to ensure optimal performance. By doing so, you can ensure that your used EV operates at its best, making your driving experience safer and more enjoyable.

Maintaining an electric vehicle requires a combination of regular maintenance tasks, which is key to ensuring it runs smoothly and efficiently for years to come. By following the tips and recommendations outlined in this guide, from regular maintenance tasks like checking tire pressure and replacing air filters to more complex tasks like battery maintenance and software updates, you can ensure that your EV is well-maintained, safe to drive, and operating at peak performance for years to come.  You can also simply maximize the value of your investment and continue to enjoy the many benefits of driving an electric vehicle. 

As always, Carnex can provide you with detailed information about buying and owning electric vehicles in Canada.

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