Proper maintenance of an electric vehicle: a complete guide

Electric vehicles require less maintenance than conventional cars because they do not have internal combustion engines, oil filters or complex transmission mechanisms. However, proper care of the battery, braking system, and software ensures long and trouble-free operation. In this article, we will look at the main aspects of electric vehicle maintenance. We remind you that you have the opportunity to purchase both home and commercial [...] charging stations in our online storeand use our public charging stations ECOFACTORlocated throughout Ukraine. For easy access to charging, you can use our applicationavailable for the following platforms iOS and Android.

Caring for the battery

The importance of proper operation

The battery is the heart of an electric vehicle, and its condition directly affects the range, performance and durability of the vehicle. A battery failure can be a costly problem, as it costs a significant amount to replace. The main factors that affect battery wear include temperature conditions, charging methods and driving style.

A worn or damaged battery can lead to a shorter driving range, less efficient energy use, and even potential overheating risks. That's why it's important to follow the key operating and maintenance rules.

Basic rules for battery care

Maintaining the optimum charge level

• The best charge level to maintain longevity is 20-80%.
• Continuously charging to 100% or discharging to 0% may cause the battery cells to wear out faster.
• If you plan to store the car for a long time, it is recommended to leave the charge at 50-60%.

Choosing the right type of charger

• Slow charging (AC, level 1 or 2) is the best option for daily use.
• Fast charging (DC, level 3) - useful for travelling, but frequent use can accelerate battery degradation.
• If you have to use fast charging frequently, it is recommended that you do not charge more than 80% to avoid overheating the battery.

Temperature control

• Optimal temperature for the battery: 15-25°C.
• In hot weather, avoid parking in the sun for long periods of time unless the vehicle has active battery cooling.
• In cold weather, you should store your car in a garage and warm up the battery before driving (some electric vehicles have a preheating function).

How to extend the battery life

Proper charging

• Use smart chargers that adjust the power and duration of charging.
• Schedule nighttime charging using timers or your car's software.
• Use regenerative braking to use energy efficiently.

Software updates

• Electric vehicle manufacturers frequently release updates to optimise battery performance and increase efficiency.
• Always install official updates to take advantage of improvements to the energy management system.

Regular diagnostics

• It is advisable to have the battery checked by an authorised service centre every 6-12 months.
• The diagnostics allow you to identify possible problems before serious malfunctions occur.

What should you avoid?

• Overheating or freezing of the battery, which significantly reduces its service life.
• Do not use fast charging frequently unless it is urgent.
• Deep discharges that can lead to a loss of battery capacity.
• Leaving the car with a fully charged or discharged battery for a long time.

The battery is the most expensive and most important component of an electric vehicle, so its proper care has a significant impact on the vehicle's performance. Maintaining the optimum charge level, temperature control, and proper charging methods will help extend battery life. Regular diagnostics and software updates will help maintain its efficiency at a high level.

Technical condition of the brakes

Why is it important to maintain the brakes of an electric vehicle?

The braking system of an electric vehicle has its own characteristics due to the use of regenerative braking. This means that during deceleration, the engine works as a generator, converting kinetic energy into electrical energy and charging the battery. As a result, traditional friction brakes wear out more slowly than in petrol or diesel cars.

However, this does not mean that the braking system of an electric vehicle does not require maintenance. On the contrary, less frequent use of conventional brakes can lead to corrosion, reduced efficiency and potential malfunctions. Regular checks and maintenance will help avoid costly repairs and ensure safety on the road.

Basic rules for caring for your brakes

Check the condition of the brake discs and pads

• Brake discs can rust due to infrequent use, especially in humid climates.
• Every 6-12 months, have the pads thickness and condition of the discs checked by a service centre.
• If you hear a squeak or vibration when braking, this may indicate that parts are worn.

Using traditional braking for prevention

• To avoid corrosion, periodically apply conventional braking instead of regenerative braking.
• Apply the brake pedal firmly (under safe conditions) about once a week to clean the discs.

Check and replace the brake fluid

• Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning that it absorbs moisture over time, which can reduce brake performance.
• Fluid replacement is recommended every 2-3 years, regardless of mileage.
• It is important to use the type of brake fluid recommended by the manufacturer.

How do I extend the life of my brakes?

Use combined braking

• Alternate regenerative and conventional braking, especially in urban traffic.
• Avoid applying the brake pedal suddenly unless necessary.

Carry out regular technical checks

• Have the brake system inspected by yourself or a service centre every 6 months.
• Check the brake fluid level and transparency.

Do not overload the car

• Heavy weight affects the wear rate of brake discs and pads.
• Avoid overloading and do not carry extra ballast in the trunk.

What should you avoid?

• Prolonged inactivity of the braking system, as this contributes to corrosion.
• Unnecessary braking, which can lead to uneven wear on the parts.
• Ignore squeaks or strange noises that may indicate component wear or damage.

The braking system of an electric vehicle works differently from that of a conventional car due to the active use of regeneration. This reduces wear and tear on brake pads and discs, but also creates risks of corrosion and loss of efficiency. Regular inspections, the use of conventional braking for preventive maintenance, and timely fluid changes will help keep your brakes in top condition.

ECOFACTOR: Your reliable partner for the care of your electric vehicle

We, the team ECOFACTORspecialise in innovative solutions for charging and servicing electric vehicles, offering our customers reliable and efficient services. As experts in the field, we understand the importance of regular maintenance to ensure the longevity and efficiency of your electric vehicle. Our services cover the entire range of electric vehicle maintenance, helping you keep your vehicle in top condition.

Why choose us?

• Individual approach: We take all the features of your electric vehicle into account and offer solutions that best suit your needs.
• High-quality equipment: We use only the most modern charging stations and diagnostic systems to accurately identify problems.
• Support at every stage: We offer not only service but also advice so that you can take good care of your vehicle. You can monitor the charging status on your mobile phone application, available for iOS and AndroidThe system provides accurate data on charge level, charging speed and energy consumption.
• Environmental friendliness and economy: Our services promote more efficient use of energy, which helps to reduce charging costs and improve your vehicle's performance.

ECOFACTOR is actively working on the development of infrastructure for electric cars, creating map of charging stationsThe company's new charging system allows drivers to not only charge their cars efficiently, but also have access to safe and convenient technology. Our cables and adapters meet the most advanced European quality standards, which guarantees safe, fast and efficient charging of your electric vehicles. Choosing ECOFACTOR means that you get not only a service, but also a partnership for the long-term successful use of your electric vehicle.

Tyre maintenance

Why is proper tyre care important?

Tyres are one of the most important elements of an electric vehicle's safety and efficiency. They affect traction, driving comfort, noise levels and even the range. Due to the higher weight of electric vehicles (due to the heavy battery) and high torque, the tyres of electric cars wear out faster than those of conventional cars.

Incorrect pressure, uneven wear or the use of poor quality tyres can lead to:

• Deterioration in energy efficiency and reduced range on a single charge.
• Increased noise level in the cabin.
• Reduced handling and risk of aquaplaning on wet roads.
• Premature tread wear and the need for frequent replacement.

To avoid these problems, you need to check the condition of your tyres regularly and maintain them properly.

Basic rules for tyre care

Tyre pressure monitoring

• The recommended pressure can be found on the sticker on the driver's door or in the vehicle's manual.
• The pressure should be checked at least once a month, as even a slight deviation can affect the efficiency of the electric vehicle.
• In winter, tyre pressure drops due to the cold air, so you need to check and inflate them more often.
• Low pressure increases rolling resistance, which reduces the range and accelerates tyre wear.
• Excessive pressure reduces contact with the road and impairs traction, which can make driving dangerous.

Uniform wheel wear and balancing

• The tyres of electric vehicles wear out faster due to the sharp acceleration and the high load on the front or rear axle (depending on the type of drive).
• Every 10,000 to 15,000 km or once a season, you should swap tyres (front and rear) to evenly distribute wear.
• Uneven wear may indicate wheel alignment or balancing issues that need to be corrected by a service centre.

Selecting the right tyre type

• For electric vehicles, special low-drag tyres are best suited to reduce energy loss and extend the range on a single charge.
• If the car is driven in cold conditions, winter tyres should be used, as summer tyres lose their effectiveness at low temperatures.
• All-season tyres are only suitable for regions with mild winters, but do not provide perfect grip in harsh conditions.

How do I extend the life of my tyres?

Check the condition of the tread regularly

• The minimum permissible tread depth is 1.6 mm, but at least 4 mm is recommended for safe winter driving.
• If there is uneven wear (e.g. wear on one side only), this may indicate an incorrect camber.

Avoid sudden starts and braking

• The high torque of electric vehicles can cause tyres to wear out quickly under intense acceleration.
• Use the economy mode or adjust your driving style to reduce the load.

Store seasonal tyres properly

• If you change from summer to winter tyres (or vice versa), store them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
• The tyres should be stored horizontally (without rims) or vertically (with rims), turning them over regularly.

What should you avoid?

• Exceeding tyre life - Old tyres lose their elasticity and grip, even if the tread is not yet worn.
• Neglect of balancing and camber, as this leads to uneven wear and discomfort while driving.
• Use of the wrong type of tyre, which can reduce braking performance and handling on different types of road surfaces.

Maintaining the tyres of an electric vehicle is an important aspect of safety and efficiency. The correct pressure, regular wear checks and the selection of high-quality tyres can significantly extend their service life. In addition, careful driving and timely replacement of tyres in accordance with the season will help to avoid unnecessary costs and make driving more comfortable.

Software updates

Why are software updates important for an electric vehicle?

An electric car is not just a vehicle, but a complex technological device where software plays a key role. Unlike traditional cars, electric vehicles receive regular updates that can improve performance, safety and functionality.

The main advantages of the software upgrade:

• Improving energy efficiency - optimises battery usage, which can increase the range.
• Fixing bugs and improving stability - technical deficiencies that may affect the operation of car systems are eliminated.
• Adding new features - For example, upgrades to the autonomous driving system, multimedia capabilities or climate control.
• Improving security - updates may contain cyber security patches that protect the vehicle from potential attacks.

Thanks to such updates, electric vehicles remain relevant even several years after their release.

Types of software updates

Over-the-Air (OTA) updates

• The most common upgrade method used by Tesla, Volkswagen, BMW, Polestar and other manufacturers.
• Updates are downloaded via Wi-Fi or mobile connection and installed automatically or upon user request.
• No need to visit a service centre, which saves the owner time.

Update through the service centre

• It is used for more in-depth updates related to safety systems, battery or engine management.
• May require physical connection of the vehicle to special equipment at the dealership.
• It is often carried out during scheduled maintenance.

Update your apps and multimedia system

• Some functions, such as navigation, multimedia services or smartphone integration, are updated separately via app stores (Google Play, Apple App Store or manufacturers' own systems).
• This includes support for new connectivity standards (e.g. improved integration of Android Auto or Apple CarPlay).

How to update the software correctly?

Check the availability of updates

• In the car settings, there is usually a menu called "Software updates" where you can check for new versions and their descriptions.
• Some manufacturers send notifications to your phone or app when an update is available.

Ensure a stable connection

• Most updates require a Wi-Fi connection, so you should park your car in a stable signal area.
• Some models can be downloaded via mobile (4G/5G), but this can consume a significant amount of data.

Monitor the battery level

• It is recommended that the charge level is at least 50% before starting the update, as some updates may temporarily disable the vehicle.
• In some cases, charging is not allowed during the update.

Do not switch off the car during installation

• The update can take from 5 to 60 minutes, depending on the type of update.
• It is not recommended to turn off the car or interrupt the process, as this may cause system malfunctions.

What should you avoid?

• Postpone updates for a long timeThis may lead to outdated features or security vulnerabilities.
• Interrupt the update processIf it has already started.
• Use unofficial updates or modified software, as this may invalidate the warranty or cause the vehicle to malfunction.

Software updates are an important part of operating an electric vehicle. They help to improve performance, safety and add new features without the need for physical changes to the vehicle. Regular updates, checking the availability of new versions, and following the manufacturer's recommendations ensure stable and efficient operation of the electric vehicle throughout its entire service life.

General technical overview

The importance of a general technical inspection for an electric vehicle

A general technical inspection of an electric vehicle is a comprehensive check of its condition, which includes not only checking mechanical components but also analysing the electronic systems that control the vehicle's operation. Since electric vehicles have their own specifics that differ from traditional petrol and diesel cars, it is important to understand the specifics of their maintenance.

Regular maintenance checks ensure that your vehicle operates safely, efficiently and for a long time. This allows you to identify potential problems in time, avoid malfunctions that could lead to accidents and maintain high performance.

The main stages of a general technical inspection

Checking the battery

A battery check is one of the most important parts of the overall vehicle inspection. Since batteries are the main power source for electric vehicles, their condition is crucial for the performance of all other vehicle systems.

• Battery capacity: Check whether the battery capacity has decreased, which could affect the range. This can be done through special diagnostic systems that assess the level of battery degradation.
• Temperature conditions: Electric vehicle batteries are sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Too high or low temperatures can reduce their efficiency or lead to faster degradation. Checking the battery cooling system is an essential part of the inspection.

Inspection of electronic systems and software

As modern electric vehicles are equipped with sophisticated electronic systems, it is necessary to check their performance on a regular basis. Software updates, driver assistance systems, and other functions are critical to keeping your vehicle in good working order.

• Diagnostics of electronics: Checking the functioning of the various electronic components of the vehicle, such as autonomous driving systems, multimedia systems, sensors, and auxiliary systems (e.g. parking sensors), is a mandatory part of the inspection.
• Checking the software version: In some cases, checking the software version, updating the system (if necessary), may be part of the overall review.

Checking tyres and suspension

The inspection should include a check of the condition of the tyres and suspension components, as they have a direct impact on driving comfort and safety.

• Tread depth: It is important to check the tread depth of the tyres, as insufficient wear can affect the braking performance and road holding of the vehicle. The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm, but for safety reasons it is recommended to change the tyres at 3 mm.
• Check the suspension and shock absorbers: The suspension is an important component that ensures a comfortable and safe ride. The inspection checks the condition of the shock absorbers, springs, and suspension components for wear and tear or damage.

Checking the braking system

Although electric vehicles often use regenerative braking to help conserve energy during braking, the traditional braking system still requires regular maintenance.

• Check the brake discs and pads: The brake discs and pads must be checked for wear. If necessary, replace the pads or grind the discs.
• Technical condition of the brake fluid: The level and condition of the brake fluid should be checked regularly as it can deteriorate over time, which can affect braking performance.

Checking the cooling and climate control system

Cooling is an important part of an electric vehicle's operation, as batteries and electric motors generate a significant amount of heat during operation. The inspection includes a check of the battery cooling system and climate control.

• Battery cooling system: Check the coolant level and the condition of the heat exchangers. If the cooling system is not functioning properly, the battery may overheat, leading to rapid wear and tear.
• Checking the air conditioner: As many electric vehicles are equipped with electric air conditioning, it is important to check the condition of the filters and the coolant level to ensure that the system runs efficiently and smoothly.

When should a general technical inspection be carried out?

A general inspection should be carried out at least once a year, as well as before long journeys, after large temperature changes or in the event of any suspected technical problems. In some cases, depending on the manufacturer's recommendations, the inspection may be more frequent, for example, every 15-20 thousand kilometres.

A general technical inspection of an electric vehicle is an important procedure for maintaining its performance and safety on the roads. Regularly checking the battery, electronic systems, tyres, brakes, suspension and other elements not only helps to avoid serious breakdowns, but also to maintain high performance and a long service life of your car. Don't forget about regular maintenance, as it will help you enjoy your journeys without any unnecessary trouble.

Conclusion.

Maintenance of an electric vehicle is much easier than that of a traditional car, but it remains important for its longevity. Most attention should be paid to the battery, brakes, tyres and software updates.

Proper maintenance and timely diagnostics will not only preserve the functionality of the electric vehicle, but also ensure comfortable and safe operation for many years.

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