Maintaining electric vehicles
Discover how easy and cost-effective it is to maintain your new electric vehicle problem-free, keeping you on the road.
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Keeping you on the road
EVs on sale today are considered more reliable than petrol or diesel powered vehicles, and don't require regular oil and coolant top-ups, or filter changes commonly associated with an internal combustion engine (ICE). This is thanks to having less moving parts than traditional combustion propelled vehicles, or even hybrids.
However it's still important to be aware of maintenance procedures that will prolong the lifespan of your electric vehicle, as well as making sure it runs as efficiently as possible. Regular checks, such as tyre pressure, software updates and brake maintenance, will make sure your vehicle is in shape, and fit for the road.
What maintenance will I need to do on my EV?
Basic maintenance on an electric vehicle is simple, and can be done by owners on a regular basis without too much expertise. Below is a guide on how you should complete regular maintenance, and when it should be carried out.
Tyres
It's best to check your tyre pressure and tyre tread on a regular basis, especially on an EV. Tyre pressure can determine the maximum range that your EV can do on a charge, as the incorrect pressure affects driving dynamics as well as efficiency. When tyres on an EV aren't inflated enough, this can cause rolling resistance - requiring the vehicle to use more power to move. Keeping the tyres inflated at the correct pressure (as advised by the manufacturer) can ensure that your EV runs smoothly and more efficiently.
Likewise, tyre tread can also affect rolling resistance. This is because the vehicle needs optimal traction with the road to perform efficiently. When tyres aren't at the optimal tread, this can cause the vehicle to consume more power than usual, reducing your battery range.
It's generally advised (whichever vehicle you drive) to ensure tyre tread and pressure are at optimal levels, as aside from efficiency savings, this is safer - allowing your vehicle to maintain optimum grip on the roads, helping to avoid hydroplaning in wet weather, as well as avoiding any fines associated with the keeping of your vehicle.
Software updates
Electric cars are like the mobile phones we use on a daily basis. This is down to the large amounts of technology that EVs rely on to ensure a great driving experience. As with your mobile phone, EVs often require software updates to ensure the vehicle is operating as best as it can. EVs use proprietary software, developed by their manufacturers to control specific parts of the vehicle - and isn't just limited to the large touchscreens found in most EVs today.
Software can assist in power delivery and handling, with regular updates enhancing responsiveness or efficiency in everyday driving. It can also affect battery optimisation, adjusting power to different components around the vehicle, whilst boosting power to those which need it. It can also help by eliminating or reducing any bugs found in previous software releases, improving any issues over time.
That's why it's important to keep an eye on any available software updates that your vehicle may need. These are usually downloaded 'over the air' by connecting to a local WiFi network, or through the vehicle's on-board internet connection. All of which contributes to the futureproofing of your electric vehicle.
Windscreen wiper blades
Just like on any other vehicle, windscreen wiper blades deteriorate over time. It's recommended that these are changed every year, to reduce any damage to your windscreen as well as ensuring your windscreen remains clear whenever you drive it.
Washer Fluid
Washer fluid helps clean the windscreen of any dirt, dust or debris, as well as keeping your visibility optimal in all situations. Most new vehicles will let you know when your washer fluid is running low, giving you a handy reminder to top this up. Otherwise, it's recommended to check your washer fluid levels every month or so, just to make sure there's enough in the tank.
It's worth noting that having the incorrect level of washer fluid can land you with a 'careless driving' offence - where you could receive a £100 fine, with 3 points added to your licence. So it's important to keep this topped up regularly. It's also an automatic fail on an MOT if your washer fluid is at an improper level.
Servicing
Of course, regular servicing is recommended to keep your EV in perfect shape, but this is done by qualified mechanics at your local dealer or service centre.
Battery and Drivetrain
Servicing an EV will ensure maximum battery health as mechanics will look out for any uneven cell degeneration or software issues that could be affecting range or battery charging performance. Battery management systems are also calibrated during a service, making sure that any diagnostic and readout processes are functioning properly.
Your vehicle's motor will also be checked for any signs of unexpected wear, as well as checking that drive components are running smoothly.
Most EVs now come with 'regenerative breaking' systems, which help recoup energy upon breaking. These kinetic breaking systems are also checked during regular servicing, ensuring that the system is running as intended, as well as regenerating the expected amount of energy to be used by the battery for extra range.
Prolonging your vehicle's life
Addressing any issues with your electric vehicle is crucial to prolonging it's life on the road. Whilst EVs are certainly easier to maintain, they must be maintained to extract maximum efficiency. Servicing helps with this, as trained mechanics will understand whether your vehicle is in top shape, or whether it needs some repairs to get it into top shape.
Manufacturer Warranty
Most manufacturers offer standard warranty on new car purchases, including those leased. This give peace of mind when purchasing or leasing a new electric vehicle, as the manufacturer are obligated to repair certain parts of your vehicle if they fail or break during the period of the warranty.
Most of the time, a manufacturer warranty lasts between 3-7 years or 100,000 miles - whichever comes first. Some manufacturers offer extended warranties at the customer's discretion, and some even offer free extended warranties if the vehicle is serviced at one of their dealers or approved service centres.
Battery Warranty
On EVs, a vehicle warranty may differ to a battery warranty, which is guaranteed solely on the vehicle's battery. A battery warranty is the guaranteed period or mileage that the manufacturer will cover any repairs or replacements if your electric car battery degrades faster than expected or experiences faults. Most manufacturers guarantee their batteries for over 8 years, or 100,000 miles - whichever comes first.
What else?
This list isn't exhaustive, so any other maintenance that your EV may need should be carried out, either by the driver or by a trained EV mechanic at your local dealer or service centre. Checking your vehicle regularly will help ensure your vehicle remains in a drivable state, prolonging it's lifespan and getting the most out of your EV's range.