16 May 2022

Tips to take care of your electric vehicle

In their bid to minimise the carbon footprint, many nations around the world are slowly adopting electric vehicles (EVs) but people who are flocking to buy e-cars are not fully aware on how to care for an electric car.

In the long term, petrol or diesel cars will be a thing of the past and it will be EVs as well as hybrids all the way. And, this will lead to a cleaner environment.

Tips to take care of your electric vehicle
The bonnet of an electric vehicle
-- Source: eautocollision.com.

Unlike petrol or diesel cars, electric vehicles are propelled by an electric motor. This motor is powered by rechargeable batteries that are charged using electricity.

EV adoption is being put in the fast lane by countries as they grapple to meet their environment targets set at the COP26 climate meet in Glasgow a few months ago.

Most countries are serious on their EV plans and this could pave the way for faster adoption. So, we can foresee a world of at least 50 per cent EVs in maybe a decade or so.

When you talk of maintenance of an electric car, it is way different from a petrol or diesel car. Here are some tips you could follow for a great EV experience:


Battery care

The monsoon season can be crucial for electric vehicle care and you have to be meticulous during this period. Humidity can result in corrosion of the mechanical parts like battery connections.

This, in turn, can affect the battery life and performance. You need to check the battery regularly and cover the car when not in use.

Also, when you go on a holiday, take your car and park it somewhere, ensure there is a shade.

This is especially true during the hot summer months. Or else, cover the car. This will prevent your battery from overheating. Also, during monsoon, it will prevent the moisture from seeping in.

It is extremely important that while charging, you must ensure that the battery is charged up to a maximum of 80 per cent. 

Fully charging a battery can shorten its life and lead to many other problems as well.


Quality of the charger

You should always use the original charger that comes with the car. Do not use cheap chargers as they may lead to sparks or short circuits.


Look after the motor

One of the must dos while maintaining an electric car is motor care. The car’s motor may not need the same level of maintenance as traditional petrol or diesel car engines.

There are fewer parts to take care of in an electric car and you can manage basic things like replacing fuel filters or switching off the oil.

However, the car’s motor will have to be serviced like in a traditional vehicle. You must give your e-car to only mechanics who have adequate experience in dealing with electric vehicle motors.

It would be better if you resolve your problems with the car company yourself.  


Take care of the brakes

Brakes are an important component of every vehicle. Electric vehicles come with regenerative braking. This type of braking system helps keep the brake pads in great shape for a long time. 

Remember to service your brakes. If you can avoid driving at high speeds of 90 km/hour or above, do so. Ensure that you do not come to an abrupt halt.  

This helps the battery last longer and prevents slamming the brakes. So, even the brakes are in great shape for long.


Other things to keep in mind

Clean the cabin often and keep it dry. Keep the coolant level above the minimum and check it frequently. Also, rotate your tyres so that they get a longer life.

Like a petrol or diesel car, however, you do not need to worry about oil changing or spark plugs.

When you suspect a problem in your car, always take it to a trained mechanic.

Also, ensure that your car has comprehensive insurance, which implies first as well as third-party insurance for maximum coverage during damage.

Also, you do not need a pollution certificate like in the case of petrol or diesel cars.


Conclusion

Follow these basic tips for your electric car and see it perform to your satisfaction always.

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