For this edition EV101, we are tackling an essential factor when it comes to owning an electric vehicle (EV): maintenance. When it comes to EV ownership, it is important to note that EVs require attention to vehicle components and maintenance schedules. With good EV maintenance care, your EV will be running smoothly without any problems. Let’s break down the ideal maintenance schedule for your EV and make sure you’re on the right track.

Maintaining an EV is similar to maintaining an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle. However, there are major differences to keep an eye on. EVs possess fewer moving parts and also usually require less upkeep, this means that you will be paying a lower maintenance cost over time. Yet, you should still pay attention to your EV’s maintenance. 

Within your EV lies the heart, which is the battery pack. Treating the heart of your EV should be the same as your own, with proper care and attention. As long as you have this mindset for your EV’s battery pack, there will be longevity for your EV down the road.

Also, even though new and modern lithium-ion batteries now have amazing durability, accounting for environmental factors will contribute to your EV’s battery pack lifespan. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory of the United States, the batteries of the EV will last between 12 and 15 years in moderate climates, 8 to 12 if it’s in extreme climates. This means you should always remember that extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can greatly influence your battery pack’s health. With this in mind, keeping your EV in garage storage is the ideal setting for temperature regulation.

Not to mention, frequent DC fast charging without proper attention can also lead to degrading your EV’s battery. So, it is important to be mindful of your EV charging habits. Importantly, regular maintenance for your EV’s battery pack mainly involves watching the coolant levels and making sure that there are no leaks in there. If there are, your EV’s performance can be heavily compromised. By following your EV manufacturer’s advice and recommendations, your worries for your EV’s battery pack will be unnecessary. 

Unlike ICE engines, EV’s motors are running electric. These electric motors do not need much upkeep either thanks to their simple structure, where it does not have any belts or chains in their motors as again they run electric. There are three types of electric motors that manufacturer mostly use in your EVs. These include synchronous permanent magnet, electrically excited synchronous, and asynchronous induction. Each electric motor possesses different methods of functions and is made to fit the characteristics of the EVs they make from the conventional to the sports EV. Another thing worth noting is the rotor, which spins inside a magnetic field while the motor is running.

With these notes in mind, the longevity of an EV’s motor can last several hundreds of thousands of miles without heavy maintenance. Although routine inspection should still be on your radar if you want your EV’s motor to run hundreds of thousands of miles.

EVs still have fluids running in them despite being all-electric. Specifically, these fluids are for the lubrication and cooling of your EV to maintain its performance aspects. Your EV will have a cooling system that utilizes glycol-based coolants, which last longer than ICE vehicles. Importantly, these coolants will maintain high engine performance at a low temperature as well as increase wear protection for transmissions in your EV. The good news is that experts from McKinsey & Co examined that EVs finish 300% less fluids across their lifespan compare to ICE vehicles. Of course, regular check-ups of your EV’s coolant levels should still be kept in mind as they help keep your EV in good shape.

The weight of EVs may be heavier than ICE vehicles due to hefty battery packs that quicken the tires to wear off, which results in requiring regular rotations replacements. With more powerful EVs and the instant torque factor, these need to be considered as they also quicken the tires to wear off as well. Nevertheless, the difference is not significant enough for one to worry about as vehicles in general all need tire replacements accounted into their maintenance schedule. Also, solutions are arriving as we speak as there are tires that are designed for EVs that account for the extra weight they carry.

As for the brakes of an EV, the regenerative braking systems in them are great factors that increase their lifespan. The functions of the regenerative braking system can increase the driving range by 10% with proper maintenance ensuring the converted electric energy is stored into the EV’s batteries. Nonetheless, it also quickens the tires to wear off. Overall, tires and brake systems in EVs will play into your EV’s maintenance schedule.

An EV’s maintenance schedule is always designed and tailored specifically to your EV’s needs for longevity and performance. The first step is to always follow your EV manufacturer’s guidelines and inspection roadmaps as they are truly the lifeline that will always put your EV in a safe space. The results of following your catered maintenance schedule for your EV will leave it in consistent top conditions as they always check every component of your EV from tire rotation to battery health.

In terms of how the schedule would appear, there will be different periods or mileage points that you need to consider when using your EV. According to experts from GreenCars, typically, every 30 days, you should always have a quick check on your EV. This includes tire pressure, tire wear, and adding windshield washer fluid. If you reach 7,500 miles on your mileage, it will be time for a more thorough inspection. This includes tire rotation, battery coolant levels, checking cabin heater functions, and the suspension for your brake system.

Other mileage points you need to consider are the 15,000 miles and 36,000 miles points. When you reach these mileage points, there will be more in-depth check-ups for your EV such as refreshing and servicing your EV’s coolant circuits. As you enter further mileage points from 75,000 miles and beyond, there will be more services added to your EV maintenance but these check-ups will always bring your EV to its optimal condition as long as you follow them.

Navigating your EV’s maintenance does not have to be a tiring or boring task. As long as you have a clear understanding and passion for your EV’s well-being, checking your EV’s maintenance requirements with a proactive attitude will bring you and your EV on countless road trips without troubles ahead.

Remember, maintenance is not just about keeping your EV in adequate condition; it is also about maintaining sustainable and environmentally friendly practices with your EV. So, schedule a maintenance check-up for your EV today and take off on your journey with your EV to a more greener tomorrow

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