Even though electric vehicles have a completely different means of propulsion compared to ICE cars, EVs require much of the same maintenance.

One of the appealing aspects of owning an electric vehicle (EV) is the reduced maintenance cost compared to conventional gasoline-powered cars. EV owners can bypass expenses associated with dedicated and difficult engine tuning, oil changes, transmission servicing, and belt replacements.

However, electric cars are not entirely maintenance-free and require periodic checks and services to perform optimally.

Understanding the unique maintenance needs of electric cars is crucial for maximizing their performance and longevity. In this blog post, we will delve into the essential maintenance tasks that should be prioritized to keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently.

Tire Maintenance and Rotation

Tire maintenance constitutes a significant portion of the overall maintenance cost of an EV. It is of utmost importance for EV owners, as tires tend to wear out faster on EVs compared to gas-powered cars. The extra weight an EV carries over a combustion car, primarily due to the battery pack, can accelerate tire wear. Regular tire rotation is therefore even more important for EV owners to prolong tire life.

It is generally recommended to have your EV's tires rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, especially if you own a high-performance electric car. However, it's essential to check your vehicle's manual or consult a qualified technician, as the recommended interval may vary depending on the specific EV model and tire type.

You should also regularly check your tires' air pressure. Underinflated tires can decrease fuel efficiency, negatively impact handling, and increase blowout risk. Overinflating your tires is also not advised, as it can result in reduced traction and uneven wear. Consult your vehicle's manual or the tire manufacturer's recommendations for optimal tire pressure and use a reliable tire pressure gauge to check and adjust the pressure accordingly.

Regular visual inspections of the tires are also important. Look for any signs of damage, such as cuts, bulges, or uneven wear patterns. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage and potential tire failure.

Inspection of Brake Pads and Fluids

While electric vehicles typically rely on regenerative braking, which reduces brake pad wear, it's still essential to inspect and change them periodically. This is because driving with worn-out brake pads on the road can be dangerous. The good news is that because electric motors have strong regenerative braking, the pads for an EV's friction brakes do not need to be changed as frequently. They can last as long as 200,000 miles on cars that are not driven hard.

The general recommendation is you should also change the brake fluid once every two years. Over time, the fluid can accumulate contaminants such as dirt, debris, and brake dust. These degrade the quality of the fluid and impact the performance of the braking system. Regular changes will ensure a fresh supply that is free from contaminants, promoting reliable braking performance. The recommended schedule for changing brake fluid in EVs differs from manufacturer to manufacturer. For example, Tesla recommends checking the brake fluid for contamination every two years, while the Bolt EV can go 150,000 miles before requiring a brake fluid change.

Windshield Wiper and Washer Fluid Replacement

Clear visibility is paramount for safe driving, and that's why maintaining your windshield wipers is crucial. Inspect the wiper blades regularly and replace them if they show signs of deterioration, such as streaking or skipping. Additionally, ensure that the windshield washer fluid reservoir is adequately filled, especially during seasons when road conditions are prone to dirt and grime buildup.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement

Electric vehicles typically have cabin air filters that help remove pollutants and allergens from the air you breathe. These filters can become clogged over time, reducing their effectiveness. Therefore, regular inspection and replacement of the cabin air filter are necessary to ensure clean and fresh air circulation within your electric car. The general rule of thumb is to replace air filters every 15,000 to 30,000 miles.

Battery Maintenance and Management

The main difference in maintenance between ICE vehicles and EVs stems from the latter's big traction battery, which is not present in combustion cars and therefore requires no special attention. The battery is the heart (and the most expensive single component) of an electric vehicle, so proper maintenance is crucial for its longevity and performance. While modern EV batteries are designed to be durable with minimal maintenance, there are still a few key considerations.

Firstly, keep the battery within its recommended temperature range, as extreme temperatures can affect its efficiency and lifespan. Secondly, follow the manufacturer's guidelines for charging and discharging the battery to optimize its performance and avoid overcharging or deep discharge. Some models also allow you to set a maximum charging limit to help extend battery life.

Check Coolant Levels

While EVs don't have traditional engines that generate the same heat level as internal combustion engines, they still rely on cooling systems to regulate the temperature of critical components such as the battery and motors. Low coolant levels can lead to overheating, resulting in reduced efficiency, potential damage to the components, and even a breakdown. Therefore, it is important to have the battery coolant in your EV checked periodically.

Every EV manufacturer has their own guidelines and recommendations regarding battery pack coolant maintenance, but you generally won’t have to change it for quite some time. Some manufacturers, like Tesla, even state that the battery pack coolant does not require changing throughout the vehicle's lifespan, although many owners still choose to change it every few years.

Software Updates and Vehicle Diagnostics

Software updates can improve performance, address potential issues, and introduce new features. Staying up to date with software updates is crucial for maximizing the capabilities and efficiency of your electric car. Additionally, regular vehicle diagnostics, either through manufacturer-recommended software or by consulting a qualified technician, can help identify any underlying issues, prevent more serious problems down the line, and generally ensure your electric car is operating optimally.

Other General Electric Car Maintenance Requirements

In addition to the specific areas mentioned above, electric cars also have general maintenance requirements like traditional vehicles. These may include differential oil changes, transmission fluid changes, inspecting lights and signals, checking the wheel alignment and suspension, AC desiccant bag replacement, or undercarriage cleaning.

Regularly Maintain Your Electric Car for Best Performance

While electric cars require less maintenance compared to traditional cars, it's still essential for optimal performance and longevity. You can do easy tasks such as checking tire pressure, a visual inspection, windshield wiper and washer fluid replacement, and general cleaning at home without any professional help. However, other technical tasks like brake pad and fluid inspection, coolant and AC servicing, wheel alignment, and in-depth diagnostics should be left to professionals who have the necessary expertise and equipment.