Electric Vehicle Servicing

Electric Vehicle Servicing

23-02-2023

Electric cars are becoming more popular as people become more environmentally conscious and seek out more cost-effective transportation options. While electric cars have many benefits, they also require a different type of maintenance than traditional gasoline-powered cars. 

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know to keep your electric car running smoothly.

Just like traditional petrol or diesel powered cars, electric cars also require regular maintenance and servicing to keep them running smoothly.

While electric cars require less maintenance compared to traditional cars as they have fewer moving parts, they still have many electronic components that need to be checked and serviced regularly. Regular maintenance by a qualified technician can help extend the life of your electric car, prevent costly repairs, and ensure it operates efficiently and reliably.

During a maintenance service, a technician will perform tasks such as checking the battery, inspecting the brakes, rotating and aligning the Tyres, and replacing the cabin air filter. They will also perform software updates to improve the performance and efficiency of your electric car.

In addition to regular maintenance performed by a qualified technician, there are also some things you can do yourself to help keep your electric car running smoothly. For example, checking Tyre pressure, keeping the car clean, and following proper charging habits can all help extend the life of your battery and improve the efficiency of your electric car.

The difference between an electric car engine and a petrol engine?

An electric car does not have an internal combustion engine, which is the heart of a traditional petrol engine. Instead, it has an electric motor that is powered by a battery pack. The electric motor is much simpler than a traditional petrol engine, as it has fewer moving parts and requires less maintenance.

Secondly, an electric car has no transmission or gearbox. Instead, the electric motor is connected directly to the wheels, which means there is no need for gear changes. This also means that electric cars are generally smoother and quieter than traditional petrol-powered cars.

Another major difference between an electric car engine and a conventional petrol engine is the way they produce power. A petrol engine burns fuel to produce power, while an electric motor uses electricity from a battery pack to create a magnetic field that turns the motor. This means that electric cars produce zero emissions, making them much cleaner and more environmentally friendly than traditional petrol-powered cars.

Lastly, electric cars use regenerative braking to help recharge their batteries. When the driver applies the brakes, the electric motor acts as a generator and converts the kinetic energy from the moving car into electrical energy that is stored in the battery. This energy can then be used to power the car when it is driving.

In summary, electric car engines differ from conventional petrol engines in several key ways, including having an electric motor instead of an internal combustion engine, no need for a transmission or gearbox, producing zero emissions, and using regenerative braking to recharge the battery.

Importance of regular servicing

Maintaining your electric car is important to ensure it operates efficiently and reliably. Regular maintenance not only helps extend the life of your vehicle, but it can also help prevent costly repairs down the road. As electric cars have more electronic components, regular maintenance can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns.

What to expect during an electric vehicle service

When you take your electric car in for maintenance, the technician will perform a variety of tasks to keep your vehicle running smoothly. This can include:

Battery Check

The battery is the heart of your electric car, and the technician will perform a battery check to ensure it's working as it should. They will look for any signs of damage or wear and tear and check the charging rate and capacity of the battery.

Tyre Rotation and Alignment

Rotating your tyres helps ensure even wear and tear, which can help extend the life of your tyres. The technician will also check the alignment of your tyres, which is important for maintaining good handling and preventing uneven wear.

Brake Inspection

The brakes on electric cars are different than those on gasoline-powered cars, so it's important to have them inspected by a technician who is familiar with electric cars. They will check the brake pads, rotors, and callipers to ensure they are functioning properly.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement

The cabin air filter helps keep the air inside your car clean and free of contaminants. The technician will check the filter and replace it if necessary.

Software Updates

Electric cars rely heavily on software to operate, and the technician will check for any available updates. Updating the software can help improve the performance and efficiency of your electric car.

DIY Maintenance

While it's important to have regular maintenance performed by a qualified technician, there are also some things you can do yourself to help keep your electric car running smoothly. These include:

Checking Tyre Pressure

Maintaining proper tyre pressure can help improve handling and fuel efficiency. Be sure to check your tyre pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level.

Cleaning the Car

Keeping your electric car clean can help prevent dirt and debris from accumulating on the battery and other components. Use a soft cloth and mild soap to clean the car and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives.

Charging Habits

Proper charging habits can help extend the life of your battery. Avoid letting the battery drain completely and try to keep it charged between 20% and 80%.

Maintaining and servicing your electric car is important to ensure it operates efficiently and reliably. Regular maintenance by a qualified technician can help prevent costly repairs down the road, while also extending the life of your vehicle. By following the DIY maintenance tips outlined in this guide, you can also help keep your electric car running smoothly between service appointments.


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