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Maintaining the Future: Electric Car Maintenance

Owning an electric car comes with numerous benefits, from reduced emissions to lower operating costs. Understand proper electric car maintenance through this post by Ace Hi Oil in Southlake.

As electric cars (EVs) continue to gain popularity worldwide, many car owners are reaping the benefits of reduced emissions and lower operating costs. However, electric car maintenance differs from that of traditional gasoline or diesel vehicles. Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts, which translates to lower maintenance costs and less frequent visits to the mechanic. Below, we will delve intoelectric car maintenance, covering essential aspects to keep your EV in top shape.

Taking care of the fluids is essential for proper electric car maintenance. Call Ace Hi Oil in Southlake at (817) 431-6664 or visit AMSOIL's online shop to place an order today!

Best Electric Car Maintenance Tips

Battery Health

The heart of an electric car is its battery pack. Proper battery maintenance is crucial for the long-term performance and range of your electric vehicle.

Charge Management: To prolong the life of the battery, avoid extreme states of charge, whether too low or too high. Most EVs have built-in systems to prevent overcharging or deep discharging.
Maintain Optimal Temperature: Extreme temperatures can affect the battery's performance. In very cold climates, pre-conditioning the battery before driving can help. Avoid exposing the vehicle to prolonged periods of extreme heat without proper cooling.
Regular Charging Habits: Consider charging to 80-90% of the battery's capacity for daily use, reserving 100% charges for long trips.
Consult the Manufacturer: Be aware of the specific maintenance recommendations provided by the vehicle manufacturer, as they can vary between models and brands.

Tires and Suspension

Electric cars may have different tire and suspension requirements compared to traditional vehicles due to their added weight from the battery pack.

Check Tire Pressure: Maintaining the correct tire pressure is crucial for optimal efficiency and safety. Underinflated tires can reduce range, while overinflated tires can lead to a harsher ride.
Rotate and Align Tires: Regular tire rotation and alignment checks are necessary to ensure even wear and extend tire life.
Suspension Inspection: Electric vehicles are generally heavier than their gasoline counterparts. Therefore, it's important to regularly inspect the suspension system and shocks.

Brakes

Electric cars often use regenerative braking, which reduces wear on traditional friction brakes. However, brake maintenance is still essential.

Regenerative Braking:Take advantage of regenerative braking, which uses the electric motor to slow the vehicle and recharge the battery. This reduces wear on brake pads and extends their life.
Brake Fluid:Like traditional vehicles, electric cars require periodic brake fluid changes. Check your vehicle's manual for the manufacturer's recommended service intervals.
Brake Pads: While regenerative braking reduces wear on the brake pads, they still require inspection and replacement when worn. Electric vehicles may have different braking systems, so consult your vehicle's manual for specific guidelines.

Cooling System

Electric vehicles rely on cooling systems to manage temperature, especially for the battery pack and electric motor.

Coolant Maintenance: Ensure the cooling system, including the coolant, remains in good condition. Regular checks and maintenance of the cooling system components are essential for proper heat management.

A proper coolant, such as Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Coolant, will help you extend the life of your electric car.

Electric Motor

Electric cars are known for their durability, thanks to the simplicity of the electric motor. However, routine checks and maintenance are still necessary.

Check for Oil Leaks:Some electric cars have a small amount of oil in the electric motor for lubrication. Regularly inspect the motor for any oil leaks and address them promptly.
Keep It Clean:The motor and related components should be kept clean and free of debris or contaminants to ensure optimal performance.

Electronics and Software

Electric cars are equipped with advanced electronics and software systems that require occasional updates and maintenance.

Software Updates: Stay current with your vehicle's software updates. These updates often improve performance, efficiency, and safety features.
Diagnostics: If you encounter any issues with your electric car, consult a certified electric vehicle technician for proper diagnostics and repairs.

Charging Equipment

Your electric car's charging equipment, including the charging cable and connectors, should be inspected and maintained regularly.

Cable Inspection: Check the condition of the charging cable for any visible wear or damage. Replacing damaged cables is crucial for safety and efficient charging.
Connectors: Keep the connectors clean and free of debris to ensure a secure connection during charging.

Fluids and Lubricants

Although electric vehicles have fewer fluids and lubricants than traditional vehicles, they still require some attention.

Transmission Fluid: Some electric cars have a reduction gearbox that may require occasional maintenance. Consult your vehicle's manual for specifics.
Windshield Washer Fluid:Check and refill the windshield washer fluid regularly to maintain visibility.