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7 Tips to Maintain Your Electric Vehicle

Like any other vehicle, electric vehicles (EVs) need regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly and efficiently. But here’s the good news—EV batteries are built to last.

Studies show they can retain about 90% of their capacity after 100,000 km and still hold 87% even after 300,000 km. That means with the right care, your EV could stay in top shape for decades, making maintenance well worth the effort.

That said, EV upkeep isn’t quite the same as maintaining a petrol-powered car. We’ve put together these seven essential tips to help you keep your electric ride in peak condition. Let’s start:

Electric Vehicle Maintenance Tips

Tip 1: Regularly check and top up your battery’s state of charge.

The battery is the heart of an EV, so it’s important to keep it charged. Most EVs come with a built-in charger that can be plugged into any standard outlet at home or work, but you may also consider investing in a faster charger for convenience.

Monitor charge levels – Avoid draining it completely or overcharging; aim for 20–80% to extend lifespan.

Keep it clean – Wipe off dust and debris to prevent buildup.

Inspect for damage – Look for swelling, overheating, or wear and consult a professional if needed.

In addition to checking its charge level, make sure to also keep your battery clean and free of debris, and check for wear and tear. These simple steps can help prolong your battery’s lifespan and maintain its efficiency.

Tip 2: Take Care of Your Charging Port and Cables

A damaged charging port or cable can slow down charging speed or even prevent your EV from charging altogether.

Keep the charging port clean – Dust, debris, and moisture can interfere with charging. Use a soft cloth or compressed air to clean the port occasionally.

Inspect cables for wear and damage – Frayed or exposed wires can be a fire hazard. If you notice any damage, replace the cable immediately.

Store cables properly – Avoid leaving your charger coiled too tightly or exposed to harsh weather. If you have extra charging equipment, consider keeping it stored safely to prevent unnecessary wear.

For businesses managing multiple EVs, storing charging equipment, spare parts, or accessories in a secure storage unit can help free up garage space and keep essential components organised. Self storage in Brighton and London, for example, offers business storage solutions for companies looking to safely store their EV equipment and accessories.

Tip 3: Read Your Manufacturer’s Maintenance Recommendations

Electrical cars often require different levels of maintenance and care than conventional vehicles, and the easiest way to get informed is by consulting your owner’s manual or reaching out to the manufacturer directly.

Recommendations will generally include:

Charging guidelines – Advice on the best ways to charge and maintain your battery for longevity.

Component checks – Routine inspections of brakes, tires, and electrical systems to identify any issues.

Coolant & lubrication maintenance – While EVs don’t require oil changes, some models have coolant systems for battery thermal management and gearbox lubrication that need periodic checks.

Keep track of recommended servicing dates by setting reminders or using maintenance tracking apps that can alert you when it’s time for routine check-ups.

Tip 4: Check your brakes regularly

Since EVs have regenerative braking systems, they typically experience less wear and tear than traditional brake components. However, that doesn’t mean you should neglect them entirely. Regularly checks for any signs of damage or wear can help prevent accidents and reduce the risk of costly repairs.

Check brake fluid condition – While brake fluid doesn’t get used as often in EVs, it can absorb moisture over time, reducing braking efficiency.

Inspect brake pads and rotors – If you notice squeaking, grinding, or pulsation when braking, it may be time to replace them. EVs can still develop rust on rotors due to infrequent use, which can lead to reduced braking performance.

Follow your manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and watch for any brake system warning lights on your dashboard.

Tip 5: Check Your Tires – They Work Harder Than You Think

Your tires do more than just roll—they affect your EV’s efficiency, handling, and safety. A little maintenance goes a long way.

Check tire pressure monthly – EVs are heavier, so proper inflation matters. Find the recommended PSI on the driver’s side door panel and use a digital gauge (don’t just rely on your TPMS).

Ditch the penny test – Use a tread depth gauge instead. If tread is under 4/32”, it’s time for new tires. Uneven wear? You might need an alignment.

Rotate every 5,000-8,000 miles – EVs wear out front tires faster due to weight and regenerative braking. Rotating them helps extend their life.

Feeling vibrations or hearing weird noises? It could be your tires—or something worse. Get it checked before it costs you.

Tip 6: Don’t Neglect Your Fluids – Yes, EVs Have Them Too

Unlike petrol cars, EVs don’t need oil changes, but that doesn’t mean you can ignore fluids altogether. Keeping them topped up and fresh helps protect your battery, brakes, and drivetrain.

Check coolant levels annually – EVs rely on coolant to regulate battery temperature and prevent overheating. Most manufacturers recommend replacing it every 40,000 to 100,000 miles.

Flush brake fluid every 3 to 5 years – While regenerative braking reduces wear, EVs still use hydraulic brakes, and brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, affecting performance.

Inspect gear lubrication – Some EVs have a single-speed gearbox that requires occasional fluid checks and replacement (varies by model).

Always check your owner’s manual for specific fluid maintenance schedules. Just because EVs are low-maintenance doesn’t mean they’re no-maintenance!

Tip 7: Keep Your Software Up to Date

Unlike traditional cars, EVs rely heavily on software for performance, battery management, and safety features. Manufacturers frequently release updates to improve efficiency, fix bugs, and enhance driving experience.

Enable automatic updates – Many EVs receive over-the-air (OTA) updates, so ensure your car is connected to Wi-Fi or mobile data when updates are available.

Manually check for updates – Some updates require a visit to the dealership, so check your manufacturer’s app or website for software notices.

Understand update changes – Updates can change how regenerative braking, range calculations, and autopilot features work, so always check the release notes.

Think of your EV like a smartphone—keeping the software updated ensures it runs smoothly, safely, and efficiently.

Final Thoughts

Electric vehicle owners have the luxury of less maintenance and lower operating costs compared to traditional gas-powered cars. However, like most things, being proactive towards maintenance and care can go a long way in prolonging the life of your EV. From regular cleaning to software updates, it’s the little things that can make a big difference in the performance and longevity of your electric vehicle. So take care of your EV, and it will continue to serve you well for years to come!

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