Over the last few years, governments all over the world have shifted their focus onto making our planet a more livable and safer place. Encouraging the use of electric cars is just one of the many ways societies are trying to restore the earth to its past glory. According to studies, electric cars produce about 80% less CO2 compared to regular gas cars. While it’s not 100%, it can still help lower a country’s emissions significantly.
If you just bought yourself a green car and aren’t sure how to take care of it just yet, you’ve come to the right place for answers. Below are seven essential maintenance tips for your electric car.
Wise Battery Use
The battery is possibly the most expensive part of any electric car. It’s important to take good care of your electric car’s batteries to make them last a long time. The simplest way you can start doing that is by keeping its charge below 100%. Charging up to 100% each time can shorten your car’s battery life. Meaning, you’ll have to replace them more often.
Other ways you can care for your car batteries include:
- Avoid parking your car under the hot sun
- Avoid leaving your car outside in the cold
- Avoid using the quick charge feature; this can reduce the battery’s lifespan
- Avoid leaving the batteries at low charge for long periods; charge your car as soon as possible
- Avoid overcharging and undercharging your batteries; keep tabs on when you charge and how much you charge your battery
- Avoid aggressive braking
- Avoid driving on rough terrain
Extended Car Warranty
Extended car warranties are policies that car owners often get after their manufacturer warranties expire. This type of policy works similarly to manufacturer warranties in the sense that they provide your vehicle with protection in case something goes wrong. Extended warranties typically have more coverage than manufacturer warranties. They can also be more expensive, so don’t be afraid to shop around before settling on a provider.
Used Car Warranty
Electric cars are undeniably expensive when you buy them brand-new. This is why many people decide to buy their electric vehicles second hand. While buying secondhand can be a smart and economical choice most of the time, there are instances when it isn’t such a great idea.
The batteries in battery-powered cars degrade over time. The longer the car has been in use, the more likely it is that the battery has degraded to a point where it can no longer hold the same amount of energy as before.
Getting car batteries replaced can be very expensive. Yet, with the help of the right used car warranty, you can avoid the expenses of getting new batteries. Instead, your warranty provider will shoulder some or even the entire amount you need to pay for new batteries.
Certified Charger
It’s best to use your car’s original charger each time you recharge. Using the wrong chargers can result in damages and errors that could cost a ton of money. If your car’s original charger starts deteriorating—as all chargers do—only buy a replacement from the manufacturer of your vehicle. Avoid buying cheap replicas since this, too, can result in irreparable damage to your car.
Brake Fluid Replacement
The great thing about electric cars is that you don’t have to replace their brake fluids as often as you do on gas cars. This is because the brake fluid on electric cars is meant to last you a long time. Yet, this doesn’t mean that you can skip regular fluid inspections. Get your mechanic to check your brake fluids from time to time, just to ensure everything is fine and dandy.
Air Filter Replacement
Air filters prevent dust, pollen, and other particles from entering the vehicle cabin. Over time, they can get dusty themselves, so it’s important to replace them regularly. Experts recommend replacing cabin air filters every 36,000 miles. This ensures optimal air quality in your vehicle at all times.
Healthy Charging Station
Your car’s charging station should be part of your maintenance plan. This is where your car will spend most of its time in. Make sure it’s clean from dust, grime, and debris. Have the outlets checked by a professional regularly to ensure they’re in great shape each time you charge.
Final Thoughts
Like any vehicle, electric cars are sensitive to the elements. Proper maintenance and care can protect it from early deterioration. It can also save you a ton of money on repairs and replacements.