Tips for EV Maintenance

As more drivers choose fully-electric vehicles, they are learning more about EV maintenance schedules. EV drivers no longer need to schedule routine oil changes, but they still need to take care of the components in their emissions-free cars and SUVs.

When you need EV maintenance, the factory-trained and certified mechanics at Livermore Lincoln near Pleasanton are ready to help. They understand the intricacies of electric motors and the other components in your EV.

Take Care of Your Tires

An important maintenance tip for all vehicle owners is to check the tires. Every one to three months, check the treads and air pressures. Most new vehicles have a Tire Pressure Monitoring System that tells you the pressure in each tire, so pay attention when the sensors alert you to problems. Taking care of your tires will help them last longer, so don’t forget to have your tires rotated at least once every six months.

Check and Fill Fluids

Your electric vehicle doesn’t have oil or transmission fluid, but it does have brake, coolant, and wiper fluid. Many also have fluid in the gearbox that transfers the electric motor’s RPMs to the wheels.

Replace the Cabin Filter

No one wants to breathe in dirty, dusty, and allergen-filled air when driving. You can keep your cabin clean by replacing the cabin air filter at least once per season. If you notice foul-smelling air coming from your vents, you’ll need to replace your cabin air filter more frequently.

Set a Timer When Charging

EV battery maintenance starts during charging sessions. You can extend your battery’s life by setting a timer when charging. Once the battery charge reaches 100%, stop charging to protect it from battery degradation. Most EVs have ten-year warranties on the battery, and with regulated charging, your battery should last at least that long.

You can also protect your battery’s life by using Level 2 chargers for full charges more frequently than DC Fast Charging stations. The fast-charging stations put more wear and tear on the electric car battery.

Service the Brakes

Since most EVs have regenerative braking systems, taking care of the brakes is vital. The technicians at Livermore Lincoln can check and replace your brake pads so you can stop safely and keep the regenerative system working properly.

Most gas-powered cars need new brake pads every 15,000 to 20,000 miles. If you use regenerative braking, you might not use the brakes as much, so the replacement schedule will vary. The service advisors at Livermore Lincoln can suggest an ideal schedule for your vehicle and driving style.

Monitor Battery Range

Pay attention to your car’s battery pack range. In extreme temperatures, your battery’s range might drop - especially when temperatures drop below freezing. You can also reduce your battery’s effectiveness if you keep your car in extreme heat. Park in the shade on hot days, and bring your EV to Livermore Lincoln for an inspection.

Schedule EV Maintenance at the Lincoln Dealership in Livermore, CA

Livermore Lincoln near Verona is the best place for electric car maintenance. We offer online service scheduling and a rotating list of vehicle service coupons on everything from new tires to windshield wiper service.