Are you concerned about the costs of car ownership due to significant maintenance? Switching to an electric car might be right for you. Electric Vehicles are easier to maintain because it has an electric motor rather than a petrol engine or diesel engine. People who only own a petrol or diesel car may not be familiar with electric vehicle maintenance.
Here is a guide that will help you learn all about EV maintenance. Also, you will learn how easy and cost-effective it is to maintain an EV. Let’s get started!
Understanding EV Maintenance Costs
1. Battery Care
An electric car’s battery is the most crucial component. Today’s EV battery packs are designed to last for an extended period. However, the battery’s performance may diminish as time passes, affecting how far and well the car works. Even though EV batteries don’t require much maintenance, you may need to update the software and run tests to ensure the battery is in top condition.
2. Cooling System
Electric cars need cooling systems to maintain the battery temperature at a healthy level. To prevent the battery from becoming overheated and prolong its life, it is essential to check and maintain your cooling system regularly. It may be necessary to flush out the coolant and check the radiator.
3. Electric Motor
Unlike cars with complex engines, EVs use electric motors with fewer moving components, requiring less maintenance. Electric motors usually are sealed and do not require much maintenance. Monitoring the motor and fixing any issues immediately with expert mechanics in Perth is essential to prevent them from worsening.
4. Tyres and Suspension
EVs require regular maintenance of their tyres and suspension, just like any other vehicle. To ensure the car runs smoothly and safely, it is vital to keep the tyres inflated properly, check the alignment, and inspect the suspension. Tyre and suspension maintenance can reduce car efficiency and increase wear on other parts.
5. Braking System
Electric vehicles use regenerative brake systems that capture energy as you slow down. This means the traditional brakes do not wear out nearly as quickly. Even though you will still have to change the brake pads and rotors occasionally, EVs require less maintenance.
Operating Costs of Electric Vehicles
Running an EV car requires certain things that affect its cost:
1. Charging Habits
The cost of running your EV is affected by how often you charge it and where. How much you spend can affect whether you charge your EV at home, in public charging stations, or with fast chargers.
2. Maintenance Costs
An EV maintenance cost is less than other vehicles because they have fewer moving components. You must still check the brakes and rotate the tyres to keep your EV running smoothly.
3. Electricity Prices
Charging an EV will be the main expense. Electricity prices can vary depending on where you live and with whom you are connected, but generally, it is cheaper than gasoline.
4. Driving Patterns
It is also essential to consider how you drive. Driving in cities, where there are many stops and starts, is better for EVs. You will use more energy on the highway and may not get as far.
You can decide if an EV makes sense for you by considering these factors:
- The cost of buying the car.
- Any incentives you may receive.
- Your other ongoing costs.
- Electric cars are a great way to save money and be kind to the environment.
Why Maintenance Costs for EVs Are Lower
Electric car maintenance has fewer moving components; thus, it is less expensive to repair and maintain. The drive train in a typical ICE car has more than 2,000 parts, compared with around 20 for an electric vehicle. You won’t need to worry about the electric car repair costs if you drive an electric vehicle:
1. Oil Change and Service (Every 5-7,000 Miles)
2. Coolant flush
3. Air filter replacement
4. Spark plugs, belts, and hoses for replacement
5. Repairs of mufflers and distributors
You will not have to worry about replacing the catalytic convert, the bane of modern drivers. The electric car maintenance cost, including the converter cost, can vary from thousands depending on the model. The brake repair and maintenance cost will also be lower for EV owners since the degenerative braking systems are used in EVs. This means the engine uses some of the braking work to generate power. So that brake pads and calipers will wear out less quickly.
What is Included in the Maintenance of Electric Vehicles?
What kind of maintenance is required for an electric vehicle? Electric cars require fewer services than non-EVs. Take the Ford F-150 Lightning as an example. Here are the items that require routine maintenance and how often.
1. Vehicle Inspection
A multi-point vehicle inspection must be performed every 12 months or every 10,000 miles (whichever is first). The brakes, cooling system, tyre half shafts, steering and suspension components, tyres, and steering are checked.
2. Cabin Air Filter
The cabin filter must be replaced every 20,000 miles.
3. Transmission Fluid Change
Transmission fluid must be changed every ten years or after 150,000 miles – whichever is first. Transmissions are not available on all EVs.
4. Tyre Rotation
Tyre rotations are scheduled yearly or 10,000 miles to promote an even wear on all tires.
5. Brake Fluid Change
Every three years, regardless of mileage, the brake fluid must be replaced to remove moisture-contaminated fluid from the system.
6. Coolant Change
The battery pack cooling fluid must be replaced every 150,000-200,000 miles or 5-10 years.
Conclusion
EVs require less maintenance and are more cost effective than traditional vehicles. This is because EVs have fewer moving components, and wear on brakes and other components are reduced. Battery replacement is the most expensive part of a vehicle, but thanks to technological advances and more extended warranties, it is less costly. Overall, EVs are more cost-effective in the long run. So, if you own an EV car that needs maintenance, you should consult with electric vehicle maintenance in Perth.
Also Read: Is It Good To Use A Steering Wheel Cover?
