What Type of Service is Required for an Electric Vehicle?
Considering the transition to an electric vehicle? Many drivers are. Unlike their gasoline-powered counterparts, EVs benefit from reduced maintenance needs. Conservatively speaking, this contributes to $1200 to $1500 in savings per year on gas and service when driving even only 12,000 miles a year. But while monotonous trips to the dealer or auto shop for tune-ups are significantly reduced, proper charging practices remain crucial for keeping your EV running smoothly.
What Type of Service is Required for an Electric Vehicle?
Electric cars simplify vehicle maintenance by eliminating many of the mechanical complexities found in traditional vehicles. Congratulations to EV adopters: there’s no need for oil changes, spark plug replacement, or fuel filter changes. Ever.
However, this doesn’t mean EVs are completely maintenance-free. Any automobile will require regular checks and care, particularly for the brakes, tires, and various fluids.
While brake systems in EVs benefit significantly from regenerative braking—which reduces wear and extends their lifespan—they still require periodic inspections to ensure they are functioning properly.
Tires would appear to be the only item on an EV that may cost more, long term, than an equivalent Internal Combustion Engine model.
Fluid Maintenance
Even though EVs do not require engine oil, your car’s brake fluid and windshield wiper fluid levels will still need your attention. Regular checks and top-offs are necessary to maintain optimal performance and safety. Scheduled service visits, though far less frequent than those for conventional cars, can help to ensure these levels are always at their peak.
Battery Health and Charging
The heart of an electric car is its battery, and maintaining its health is key. While EVs benefit from regular charging, the type of charging can significantly impact battery longevity. Many EV owners do not realize that frequent use of Level 3 superchargers (a.k.a. DC fast charging) can lead to faster battery degradation. Instead, the best practice for maintaining an EV battery includes daily charging at home, ideally keeping the battery charge between 20% and 80%. This practice minimizes stress and maximizes the lifespan of the battery.
Home Charging with EV Power
Home charging is not just a convenience; it’s a way to ensure your EV remains in tip-top condition. Charging your EV overnight at home with a standard or Level 2 charger helps maintain consistent battery health and readiness. This method of charging ensures that the car is always ready for daily use, whether you’re driving short distances or planning a longer trip.
Home charging stations, like those offered by EV Power Solutions, are designed to optimize the charging process, making them an ideal choice for EV owners.
While the maintenance landscape changes, the need for careful, consistent care of your vehicle remains.
Adhering to a regular maintenance schedule, ensuring fluid levels are adequate, and embracing proper charging habits, allows you to enjoy the full potential of your electric vehicle for years to come.