What Maintenance Does An Electric Car Need?

 
Do electric cars need maintenance? The answer is yes, but you might be surprised by how simple electric car maintenance can be. Not only are there fewer services to complete, but the bill is often cheaper than you’d expect. Learn more about how to keep your EV in top shape in Live Oak and Macclenny, and get more EV service tips from Rountree Moore Kia!

General Electric Car Maintenance Schedule 

So, what maintenance does an electric car need? Because electric vehicles have no internal combustion engine at all, the EV maintenance schedule is pretty simple – no check engine lights, no oil changes, no spark plug replacements. However, maintenance on electric cars does include tasks like brake checks and tire care. Here are some of the key EV maintenance services that you can expect:

• Brakes: Electric vehicles are equipped with regenerative braking systems. While this involves less wear and tear for your brakes, you’ll still need to schedule an inspection every 7,500 miles or so to monitor brake components and fluid.

• Powertrain: Though EVs don’t have an engine, they do have direct-drive or multi-speed transmissions. These transmissions usually need a fluid change periodically, and your owner’s manual can tell you the proper time frame for your make and model.

• Coolant: Coolant pulls heat from the charger, inverter, and the battery pack, so it’s important to get a fluid flush every now and then. Most EVs schedule this service every 150,000 miles or so.

• Tires: Tire care is crucial for any vehicle in Gainesville, so don’t forget about your tire rotations every 5,000 to 10,000 miles for the best results.

Battery Maintenance on Electric Cars

One of the biggest differences between electric car maintenance and gas-powered vehicle maintenance is the battery care. Electric car batteries have a larger capacity than standard auto batteries, and they can be expensive to replace. However, your EV battery is covered by Kia’s 7-year warranty. Here are some ways to keep your battery running smoothly:

• Avoid Extremes: Batteries perform at their best in moderate climates, so try to avoid the extreme highs and lows when possible.

• Charge Smart: Just as you should avoid extreme temperatures, you should also avoid extremes when charging your battery. Charging your battery fully or letting it drain completely is tough on the internal components, though your car puts certain limits in place to prevent this.

• Take Your Time: Level 3 fast chargers are helpful in a pinch, but try to stick with Level 1 and 2 charging stations when possible. Fast charging can wear out your battery faster than slower methods. 

Learn More about Electric Car Maintenance with Rountree Moore Kia

So, do electric cars need maintenance? Yes, and Rountree Moore Kia can help. Schedule your electric car maintenance with Rountree Moore Kia in Lake City and contact us with any questions. We’d be happy to bring out the best in your car!