At our Toyota dealership, we understand the importance of proper EV maintenance to help keep those vehicles running efficiently and smoothly. Though EVs typically require less upkeep than gasoline-powered cars, regular care is essential for optimal performance and longevity.
Caring for Your Electric Car: EV Maintenance Essentials
Battery Care
The battery is the heart of an electric car, and the right maintenance care can help maximize its lifespan. It’s important to avoid exposing the battery to extreme temperatures. In Silver Spring, where temperatures can vary, it’s a good idea to park your EV in a garage, carport, or shaded area to help protect the battery from extreme heat or cold.
While fast charging is convenient, it can degrade the battery at a faster rate. It’s recommended to use fast chargers sparingly and opt for slower charging whenever possible. This not only helps preserve the battery, but it also reduces the overall cost of charging.
Stay Cool with Fluid Checks
Electric vehicles generate heat while converting electricity into mechanical energy. To prevent overheating, some EVs are equipped with cooling systems that use a coolant. Regularly checking the cooling system to ensure proper coolant fluid levels is a vital step in electric car maintenance.
Don’t forget to keep an eye on the wiper fluid level as well. Regularly filling the windshield wiper fluid helps ensure clear visibility, especially in inclement weather.
Brake for Safety
While EVs rely on regenerative braking to slow down the vehicle and recharge the battery, they still have mechanical brakes that play a role in the process and require upkeep. Due to the regenerative brakes picking up most of the slack, the brake pads on EVs typically last longer than on traditional gas-engine autos that depend solely on mechanical braking.
Brake pads on EVs do eventually wear out. Some of the signs that indicate your brake pads probably need to be replaced are:
- Screeching noises
- Vibrations
- Fluid leaks
Tire Integrity
Just like traditional cars, electric vehicles require tire maintenance. It’s important to regularly check the tire tread depth and replace them as necessary. You want to make sure that you have the proper tires on your EV as well.
Need to Schedule Service for Your EV in Silver Spring, MD?
From battery maintenance to coolant checks, taking care of your electric vehicle will help you enjoy a reliable and efficient driving experience for years to come. Visit us at DARCARS Toyota of Silver Spring and take a look at our electric vehicle lineup today, or if you have an EV, schedule maintenance here!
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