Electric vehicles may be low-maintenance compared to petrol and diesel cars, but they’re not maintenance-free. The good news? EV maintenance is straightforward, and with a few simple habits, you can extend your battery life, improve driving performance, and avoid costly repairs.
Whether you’ve just switched to an electric vehicle or you’re a seasoned EV owner, this blog breaks down easy, practical steps to keep your electric vehicle in top shape - helping you drive smarter and save more in the long run.
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1. Prioritise Battery Health
Your EV battery is like the engine in a petrol car – it’s the most crucial (and expensive) component.
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Avoid letting your charge drop below 20% or exceeding 80% on a regular basis.
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Precondition your battery before charging or driving in cold weather.
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Charge overnight at home using a smart tariff to save money and protect battery life.
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Use regenerative braking to recapture energy and reduce wear.
2. Check Tyres Regularly
Electric vehicles are heavier due to the battery, meaning tyre wear is more pronounced.
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Inspect tyre pressure monthly – incorrect inflation reduces range and affects safety.
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Rotate tyres every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to ensure even wear.
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Check for uneven tread that could indicate alignment issues.
Look for EV-specific tyres designed to handle higher torque and weight, for longer-lasting performance.
3. Keep Your Brakes in Check
EVs use regenerative braking, which takes pressure off the brake pads. But they still need attention.
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Get your brake pads and discs checked annually, even if wear is minimal.
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Listen for squeaking or grinding - signs that your pads may need replacing.
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Avoid letting the vehicle sit idle for long periods, which can cause the brakes to seize.
4. Software Updates Matter
Electric vehicles rely heavily on onboard computers and software systems.
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Install all manufacturer-recommended updates to enhance performance, range, and safety.
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Many EVs allow over-the-air (OTA) updates - make sure your Wi-Fi is enabled.
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These updates often include improved battery algorithms or new features.
5. Keep It Clean – Inside and Out
Regular cleaning does more than keep your EV looking sharp.
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Wash off road salt and grime in winter to prevent corrosion, especially around charging ports.
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Keep your charging cable clean and dry and store it safely.
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Vac vents and replace air filters to maintain cabin air quality.
6. Don’t Ignore the Cooling System
While EVs don’t have radiators like petrol cars, they often use thermal management systems to cool the battery and motor.
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Schedule coolant checks at your vehicle’s recommended intervals.
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If your EV has a heat pump system, ensure it’s inspected during annual servicing.
7. Keep an Eye on Suspension and Steering
EVs generate instant torque, which puts more strain on suspension components.
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Book a suspension check annually or if you notice a bumpier ride.
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Make sure your steering feels responsive and smooth – any stiffness or looseness should be looked at.
8. Schedule a Yearly Service
Even with fewer moving parts, EVs still need an annual health check.
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Most EV manufacturers recommend yearly servicing to inspect key systems.
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Key checks include: brakes, battery performance, suspension, tyres, charging port condition, and software updates.
Did you know? EV servicing is generally cheaper than servicing a petrol car – fewer fluids, filters, and no engine oil changes.
Keep Your EV Road-Ready with Simple Steps
Maintaining your EV doesn’t need to be complicated or costly. By taking a few proactive steps - like checking your tyres, keeping your software up-to-date, and booking annual services - you can enjoy years of smooth, efficient, and sustainable driving.
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