EV Maintenance Tips

Key Takeaways for EV Maintenance

Electric vehicles require less maintenance than petrol or diesel cars, but regular servicing is still essential to avoid costly repairs and maintain performance. Here’s what you need to know:

• Battery Health – Avoid extreme temperatures, overcharging, and frequent rapid charging to extend battery life.
• Tyres – EVs are heavier, so tyres wear out faster. Check pressure monthly and replace when tread depth is low.
• Brakes – Regenerative braking means less wear, but rust can build up. Regular brake fluid changes are recommended.
• Suspension – Extra battery weight puts strain on suspension; get it checked annually.
• Professional Servicing – A £99.95 EV Health Check at Brake & Service World ensures your car stays in peak condition.

Skipping EV servicing could lead to performance issues and costly repairs. Keep reading to learn how to maximise your EV’s lifespan and stay road-ready.

1. Why Electric Vehicles Need Servicing

While EVs have fewer moving parts than internal combustion engine (ICE) cars, they still require regular servicing to stay in top condition. Some of the key reasons for EV servicing include:

• Battery Health – Over time, battery efficiency declines, affecting performance and range.
• Tyre Wear – EVs are heavier than petrol cars, causing faster tyre wear.
• Braking System – Regenerative braking extends pad life, but corrosion can be an issue.
• Suspension – The extra weight of the battery can strain suspension components.

Skipping electric car servicing can lead to unexpected breakdowns and expensive repairs. That’s why it’s recommended to book an electric vehicle service at least once a year.

2. Key Areas of EV Maintenance

a) Battery Health: The Heart of Your EV

The battery is the most important (and expensive) part of an electric car. Keeping it in peak condition ensures a longer lifespan and better driving performance.

Best Practices for Battery Longevity:

• Avoid letting the charge drop below 20% or exceeding 80% regularly.
• Charge slowly overnight rather than relying on rapid charging too often.
• Park in moderate temperatures—extreme heat or cold affects battery life.
• Get a professional battery health check during your electric vehicle service.

A poorly maintained battery can lose capacity over time, reducing your driving range.

b) Tyre Wear: Heavier Load, Faster Wear

EVs weigh 20-30% more than ICE cars due to their battery packs, putting extra strain on tyres. Worn-out tyres affect energy efficiency and safety.

Tyre Maintenance Tips:

• Check tyre pressure monthly—under-inflated tyres reduce efficiency.
• Rotate tyres every 6,000-8,000 miles for even wear.
• Ensure a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm (though 3mm is recommended for safety).
• Consider EV-specific tyres designed for heavier loads and improved efficiency.

nb: A tyre check is included in a Brake & Service World EV Health Check.

c) Braking System: Why Less Use Can Be a Problem

One major advantage of EVs is regenerative braking, which slows the car by converting kinetic energy into electricity. This reduces wear on brake pads and discs, meaning they last up to 50% longer than in a petrol or diesel car.

However, this also means brake discs can corrode due to lack of use.

Brake Maintenance Tips:

• Use your brakes intentionally every now and then to prevent rust build-up.
• Get a brake fluid change every two years.
• Book an EV servicing check to assess pad wear and braking system condition.

d) Suspension: The Silent Hero of a Smooth Ride

The added weight of EVs can cause faster suspension wear, impacting comfort and handling.

Suspension Maintenance Tips:

• Watch for uneven tyre wear, knocking noises, or a rough ride—signs your suspension needs attention.
• Get your shock absorbers and suspension joints checked annually.

Suspension issues can make your EV less efficient and less comfortable to drive, so don’t ignore them.

3. Why Professional EV Servicing Matters

While some EV maintenance can be done at home (like checking tyre pressure), a professional electric car servicing ensures your vehicle stays roadworthy and efficient.

A Brake & Service World EV Health Check (£99.95) covers:

• Brake Inspection – Checking brake pads, discs, and fluid levels.
• Tyre Assessment – Ensuring correct pressure and tread depth.
• Suspension Evaluation – Checking shock absorbers and alignment.

Optional add-ons include filter replacements and brake fluid changes. Booking an electric vehicle service means potential issues can be caught early—saving money in the long run.

4. Quick Daily EV Care Tips

To keep your EV running smoothly between services:

• Keep software updated – Manufacturers release firmware updates for better efficiency.
• Use a slow charger where possible – Rapid charging frequently can degrade the battery.
• Drive regularly – Avoid letting your EV sit unused for long periods.
• Check wiper blades and screen wash – These small things often get overlooked.

Conclusion: Keep Your EV in Top Shape

EVs require less maintenance than petrol or diesel cars, but neglecting key areas like tyres, brakes, and the battery can lead to expensive repairs. A regular electric vehicle service ensures your car stays efficient, safe, and enjoyable to drive.

Booking your EV Health Check online with Brake and Service World couldn’t be easier – and it’s the smart choice for keeping your electric vehicle in peak condition.

As a trusted, family-friendly business with service centres in both Letchworth and Luton, you’ll benefit from expert care, honest advice, and a warm, professional welcome. Whether you’re preparing for a long journey, want peace of mind, or simply staying ahead of potential issues, our team is here to help.

Book today and drive away with confidence.