In the midst of the automotive industry's evolution, electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a pivotal force, transforming the way we think about transportation. As the world increasingly embraces these clean and efficient alternatives to traditional gas-powered cars, it becomes essential to understand the fundamentals of EV maintenance. In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of electric vehicle care, ensuring that your EV remains reliable and efficient for years to come.
Electric Vehicle Maintenance: Avoid High-Current Discharges
When operating an electric vehicle, it's advisable to avoid sudden and heavy acceleration during startup, passenger loading, or uphill driving. Such actions can result in instantaneous high-current discharges, which may lead to the formation of lead sulfate crystals, potentially damaging the physical properties of the battery plates.
Electric Vehicle Maintenance: Prevent Plug Heating During Charging
Loose connections or oxidation on the 220-volt power plug or charger output plug can lead to plug heating. Prolonged heating can cause plug shorts or poor contacts, resulting in unnecessary damage to the charger and battery. To address such issues, it's essential to promptly clear any oxidation or replace the connectors.
Electric Vehicle Maintenance: Prevent Battery Discharge During Storage
During storage, it is crucial to avoid leaving the battery in a discharged state. Battery discharge occurs when a battery is not recharged promptly after use. Storing a battery in a discharged state can lead to the formation of lead sulfate, which adheres to the battery plates, obstructing ion channels and causing reduced charging capacity. The longer a battery remains in a discharged state, the more severe the damage. Therefore, when a battery is not in use, it should be recharged monthly to maintain its health.
Electric Vehicle Maintenance: Protect from Sun Exposure
Exposing an electric vehicle to direct sunlight is strongly discouraged. High temperatures can increase internal pressure within the battery, leading to water loss, reduced battery activity, and accelerated plate aging.
Electric Vehicle Maintenance: Properly Time Charging
During regular usage, it is essential to accurately time charging based on real-world needs, taking into account usage frequency and driving distances. When the battery indicator shows red or yellow lights while driving, it's an indication that it's time to recharge. If only the red light remains, it's crucial to stop driving and recharge promptly, as excessive battery discharge can significantly reduce its lifespan. Overcharging, over-discharging, and insufficient charging can all shorten the battery's lifespan. On average, a battery should be charged for about 10 hours. If the battery temperature exceeds 65°C during charging, charging should be stopped.
Electric Vehicle Maintenance: Regular Inspection
During usage, if the EV's range suddenly drops significantly in a short period, it's likely that at least one battery cell is malfunctioning. In such cases, it is advisable to visit an authorized service center or dealer's repair department for inspection, repair, or cell replacement. This approach can potentially extend the battery pack's lifespan and minimize your expenses.
Electric Vehicle Maintenance: Regularly Check Tire Pressure
Maintaining the correct tire pressure is essential. Tire pressure should be checked every two weeks or at least once a month. Incorrect tire pressure can result in higher energy consumption, reduced driving range, decreased comfort, shorter tire lifespan, and compromised safety.
Electric Vehicle Maintenance: Other Important Considerations
1. Before each trip, check the battery's charge level, brake performance, and loose screws. Address any issues promptly and ensure that there are no faults before driving.
2. When repairing or replacing charging components or fuses, always disconnect the 220V power plug before working on them. Avoid working on live components.
3. Always turn off the power switch, remove the key, shift the gear selector to the neutral position, and engage the handbrake when parking.
4. For battery or electrical system maintenance, ensure that the main power switch is turned off before starting any work.
5. When children are playing inside the vehicle, remove the key to prevent accidents.
6. Before driving the electric vehicle, check that all doors are securely closed.
7. Charging should be conducted in areas inaccessible to children.
8. In case of accidents or any situation that may cause a fire, immediately turn off the main power switch.
This concludes our introduction to electric vehicle maintenance knowledge. Electric vehicles play a crucial role in combating air pollution and addressing environmental concerns.