EV Maintenance Tips: How to Keep Your Electric Vehicle in Shape

Regular check-ups are vital even for EVs. For example, keeping your Tesla (or any EV) charged between 20%–80% and avoiding extreme heat can prolong battery life​. Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts and no oil changes – a huge plus for maintenance. But EVs still need love! Follow these tips to maximize your electric car’s performance and longevity:

1. Mind the Battery’s State of Charge

Your EV’s battery pack is its heart. To prolong battery lifespan:

• Avoid 0% or 100% whenever possible: Keeping charge between about 20% and 80% is ideal for battery health​. Frequently draining to zero or leaving it at 100% for long periods can stress the battery.
• Charge Slowly When You Can: DC fast charging is super convenient on road trips, but daily use of fast chargers can generate extra heat and wear. Whenever feasible, use a Level 2 charger at home overnight. Slower charging is gentler on the battery​.
• Don’t Let It Overheat: Extreme heat is a battery’s enemy. On very hot days, park in the shade or garage to keep the battery cool​. Many EVs have thermal management, but it helps to give the car a break if it’s baking in the sun.

2. Rotate Tires and Check Pressure Often

EVs are heavier and have instant torque, which can wear tires faster. Rotate your tires on schedule (typically every 10,000km/6300mi or as the manufacturer suggests) to ensure even wear​

Maintain proper tire pressure – it impacts your range significantly. Due to weight, some EV owners find rotating slightly more frequently prevents edge wear. And because EVs are so quiet, you might notice tire noise more if they wear unevenly.

3. Inspect Brakes, Even If You Regenerate

One benefit of EVs is regenerative braking, which uses the electric motor to slow down, vastly reducing brake pad use​

Still, you should:

• Check Brake Fluid: Even if pads last longer, brake fluid absorbs moisture over time. Replace it at intervals (often every 2–3 years) as recommended​
• Listen and Clean: If you hear squeaks or the car sat unused for a while, lightly rusty brake rotors might need a few normal braking runs to clean off. Some EVs let you adjust regen – occasionally using friction brakes keeps them functional. Also, have the pads and calipers inspected annually to ensure nothing’s seized from disuse.

4. Keep the Battery Coolant and Other Fluids in Check

EVs don’t have engine oil, but they often have coolant for the battery and electronics. This thermal management fluid should be checked and replaced per your manufacturer’s schedule (some around the 5-year mark). Also, gearbox oil (for the reduction gear) may need a change eventually – check the manual (many are lifetime fills, but some manufacturers specify an interval). Don’t forget windshield washer fluid – electric or not, you need clear visibility!

5. Software Updates = Maintenance Too

Manufacturers roll out over-the-air software updates that can improve efficiency, fix bugs, or even add features. Keep your EV’s software up to date – it’s essentially free maintenance that can enhance battery management or range. Check the car’s app or infotainment for pending updates. Just like your phone, an updated EV can run “smarter” and more reliably.

6. Cabin Air Filter and HVAC

Electric cars often have sophisticated HVAC systems (heat pumps, etc.). Replace the cabin air filter on schedule (usually every year or two) to keep interior air fresh – especially important since EVs are so quiet, you’ll notice bad odors more! If your EV has a desiccant filter in the A/C system (Tesla recommends changing theirs every few years​

7. Don’t Skip Annual Checkups

Even if an EV doesn’t need oil changes, an annual inspection by the service center is wise. Technicians will:

• Run diagnostics on the battery and motor.
• Inspect the high-voltage connections and cables.
• Ensure suspension, steering, and other components are in good shape (EV weight can affect these parts).
• Apply any needed service bulletins or firmware upgrades.

8. Use Regenerative Braking Wisely

In daily driving, maximize regen braking to reduce wear on pads and recoup energy. But also give yourself and the car a break – overly aggressive stop-and-go driving can still heat components. Many EVs allow adjusting regen strength; find a balance that suits your driving style and keeps you comfortable while extending brake life​

By following these EV maintenance tips, you’ll keep your electric car running like a dream. Fewer moving parts does mean less hassle – but paying attention to battery care, tires, and software will ensure your EV remains efficient and reliable for years to come. With just a bit of routine care, you can enjoy silent, smooth motoring and preserve your EV’s value down the road.

Sources: Car manufacturers recommend keeping battery charge in the mid-range and avoiding extreme temperatures for longevity​

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