Buckle up, because the roar of a gas-powered engine is about to be replaced by the subtle hum of eco-friendly progress! Electric vehicles (EVs) are slowly making their mark in the transportation world, with many popular brands planning on releasing full EV and hybrid lineups in the years to come.
While most drivers know the ins and outs of caring for their gas-powered companions, from oil changes to squeaky brakes, EV maintenance brings up a lot of questions for most people. Do electric cars need oil changes? How often should I get my EV serviced at my local dealership?Keep reading as we tackle EV maintenance and tell you everything you need to know about how to care for your new sustainable ride, only at South Strand Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM!
Plug-in Hybrid and Hybrid Car Maintenance vs. EV
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly ride, you have a few options: hybrids, plug-in hybrids or fully electric vehicles. And when it comes to understanding car maintenance needs, you first have to know what’s going on under the hood.
- Hybrids: Hybrids combine an electric motor with a gas engine, allowing the electric motor and gas to work together for an easygoing and powerful journey.
- Plug-In Hybrids: If you are well-prepared for a greener ride but not quite ready to go fully electric, say hello to the plug-in hybrid. Local driving can be done on electric power alone, while the gas engine supplements for longer road trips.
- Electric vehicles: Relying solely on battery-powered fun, full EVs are rechargeable and require pit stops at a charging station rather than your local Exxon.
Since hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars still get along with gas engines under the hood, their maintenance routines run closer to their gas-powered counterparts. For tips on how to keep your EV running smoothly, keep reading!
The Ultimate Guide to Electric Vehicle Servicing Near You
EVs have a reputation for costing more up front, but requiring far less maintenance than gas engine vehicles. While regular maintenance tasks involve rotating tires and switching out wiper blades, drivers of these battery-powered vehicles need to keep some EV-specific services in mind.
Battery Maintenance
Fortunately for EV owners, some money can be saved at the pump. The lack of a gas-powered engine means no need to stop for oil changes or have air filters replaced. The motor’s battery, however, can break down over time and degrade in cycle life. Avoid extreme temperatures–both hot and cold–and try to charge the battery to a level between 85 and 90 percent for everyday use.
Keep an Eye on Fluid Levels and Hoses
While you won’t need to watch for an oil warning light on the dashboard, your EV still will require regular fluid level attention. Washer fluid, brake fluid and cooling system hoses and levels will need routine checks and refills.
Step on the Brakes! Check your Pads!
If you own or are considering an EV, you may also come across the term “regenerative braking.” This system turns the EV’s motor into a generator, slowing down and sometimes stopping your vehicle without ever applying the brakes. While this saves wear and tear on the brake pads, it still remains an important part of EV maintenance and something to always look out for.
Specific EVs, like the new electric Dodge Charger EV, may require specific maintenance concerns or requests. Talk to our qualified team of service professionals at one of the leading Dodge dealerships near you for more information on proper car care of your electric vehicle.
Key Takeaways on EV Maintenance
Your EV is an investment, so you want to make sure it lasts! Here are some key takeaways for long-term service milestones for the all-electric Dodge Charger to use as a basis for your own electric force of nature:
- Every 7,500 miles: Have tires rotated, check coolant and other fluid levels, and check your battery for signs of degradation or issues.
- Every 15,000 miles: Check and, if needed, replace the windshield wiper blades
- Every 20,000 miles: Replace the cabin air filter and inspect your suspension and brake linings
- Every 40,000 miles: Inspect your front and rear axle fluid
- Every 60,000 miles: Check your transmission fluids
- At 100,000 miles: Replace your engine belts and replace the gas struts in the hood and/or body
When it comes to these milestones, there is no one better to help you stay on top of routine maintenance and repairs than our service center in Pawleys Island, SC! Prepped to handle the toughest task, our goal is to get you back on the road as safely–and quickly–as possible.
Stay Up-to-Date on Vehicle Maintenance at South Strand Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM!
Transportation is headed into the electric age, so make sure you are at the forefront with knowledge and maintenance know-how at South Strand CDJR! As one of the top car dealerships in Pawleys Island, our team of skilled professionals will be with you every step of the way for your maintenance needs.
Still searching for the perfect EV to get started? Stop by our car lot to check out our hybrid and EV inventory, schedule a test drive, or pick our brains about an electric future.
And don’t forget, if you ever need an electric car repair near you, trust no one other than South Strand Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM!