Investing in an electric vehicle can save you money at the pump, but it still requires regular maintenance for a smooth ride.
If you are considering investing in an electric vehicle, you are not alone. Across the globe, soaring gas prices and attention to environmental sustainability are causing the number of electric vehicles on the road to climb. Electric vehicle sales doubled in 2021 to 6.1 million, versus 3 million in the prior year, according to the International Energy Agency.
EVs Offer Lower Maintenance Costs
All-electric vehicles have an electric motor rather than the traditional internal combustion engine. Often called battery electric vehicles, these cars have at least one battery that powers the engine, eliminating the need for gas. Many new models of electric vehicles can travel at least 300 miles before they need to be recharged. Electric vehicles can be plugged in and recharged at home or at vehicle charging stations.
In addition to saving money on gas, electric vehicles typically require less maintenance than a car equipped with a combustion engine. However, they are by no means maintenance-free. Milex Complete Auto Care can help you keep your electric vehicle’s maintenance schedule on track. Here are the major maintenance tasks required on an all-electric vehicle.
Fluids. You can cross oil changes off your to-do list, but there are still fluids you will have to replenish. All-electric vehicles require you to at least top off the battery coolant, hydraulic brake fluid, and HVAC refrigerants.
Tires. The tires on your electric vehicle will get the same wear and tear as a gas-powered car. Make sure to check your tire pressure regularly and get the tires rotated every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Depending on the number of miles you put on your car, you can expect to need new tires every six years, or between 25,000 and 50,000 miles.
Battery. Many electric vehicles still have a traditional 12-volt battery to power lights, turn signals, and windows. The 12-volt battery should last longer than it would in a gas-powered vehicle, but it will eventually need to be replaced. The main battery in your electric vehicle will also degrade over time, but it’s likely you will want to trade in for a newer model before it kicks the bucket. Electric vehicle batteries last anywhere from 10 to 20 years.
Brakes. The brakes on your electric vehicle should last longer than a gas-powered ride. Electric vehicles use regenerative braking, which boosts the battery power of the vehicle. However, your brakes will wear out over time and should be inspected every 7,500 miles.
Suspension. The suspension is the car’s system of springs and shock absorbers that create a comfortable drive and protect the vehicle. Electric vehicles are heavier than traditional cars, causing extra wear on the suspension. Paying close attention to the condition of your tires can help minimize the need for extensive suspension repairs.
Wipers and Filters. A battery electric vehicle still has a cabin air filter that needs to be replaced to filter out harmful contaminants like air pollution and pollen. Rain, sleet, and snow can damage your wipers. A good rule of thumb is to replace your wipers once a year.
Electric Vehicle Sales on the Rise
Less maintenance and lack of reliance on the unpredictable cost of gasoline are two of the major reasons people are turning to electric vehicles. While automobile manufacturers toyed with alternative fuel vehicles over the years, the launch of Tesla’s luxury electric sports car in 2008 helped give the industry momentum, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Lack of model variety and high price tags initially made people reluctant to take the leap. Although electric vehicle sales still only represented 9% of total light vehicle sales in 2021, experts are optimistic about the future of the electric vehicle market.
Automobile manufacturers are starting to expand their electric car lineup from small, four-door vehicles to SUVs and trucks, which is sparking customer interest. The upcoming debut of SUV and off-road vehicles by major players like Jeep, Ford, and Tesla are also generating buzz and helping make electric vehicles a viable alternative for the average American family.
Schedule Maintenance at Milex
Milex has been helping customers keep their vehicles in good condition and stay safe on the road for 50 years. Our mechanics stay abreast of all the latest advancements in the evolving automobile agency. If you have an electric vehicle, rely on the trusted mechanics at Milex to help maintain your investment. Find your local Milex and schedule a service appointment today.