Tips for Maintaining an Electric Car for Longevity and Optimal Performance

The trend of using electric cars is growing rapidly in Indonesia, and it’s now common to see these eco-friendly vehicles on city streets. Besides being zero-emission and environmentally friendly, electric cars also offer comfort and driving efficiency.

However, to keep their performance at its best and extend their lifespan, proper maintenance is crucial. So, what does that entail? And is it different from maintaining a gasoline car? Let’s go through some essential electric car maintenance tips.

1. Proper Battery Care

The battery is the heart of an electric car, as the vehicle’s performance and lifespan depend on it. To keep it in good condition:

• Avoid overcharging, just like with other smart devices.
• Use the manufacturer-recommended charger to maintain stable current and voltage.
• Do not let the battery drain completely to 0%, as this can damage the cells over time.
• Limit frequent use of fast charging since it can accelerate battery wear.
• Protect the battery from extreme temperatures. In moderate climates, batteries can last up to 15 years, while in extreme climates they may last only 8–12 years.

Chery addresses battery concerns with an 8-year or 180,000 km battery warranty, showing their commitment to quality and durability.

2. Cooling System Maintenance

The cooling system keeps the battery temperature stable during use and charging. Overheating can cause faster battery degradation, so regularly check coolant levels and ensure the system is working properly to prevent overheating.

3. Brake System Care

Electric cars often use regenerative braking, which slows the car while sending energy back to the battery. While this reduces wear on the mechanical brakes, regular brake pad checks are still necessary for safety and performance.

4. Tire and Suspension Maintenance

Tire care is just as important for electric cars as for gasoline vehicles. The battery adds extra weight, affecting the load on the tires. Keep tire pressure at the manufacturer’s recommended level to avoid uneven wear and improve efficiency. Rotate tires regularly for even wear and longer life, and check the suspension to maintain comfort.

5. Keep Software Updated

Electric cars are smart vehicles with multiple software systems controlling features like power management, battery control, and safety functions. Regular updates improve efficiency, fix bugs, and add new features from the manufacturer.

6. Avoid Extreme Temperatures

Temperature affects long-term battery performance. Avoid parking in direct sunlight for extended periods and try to drive in ideal conditions. If driving in extreme weather, use the car’s thermal management system to maintain battery temperature.

7. Keep the Owner’s Manual

If you’re switching from gasoline to electric, always keep the owner’s manual handy. It’s useful for troubleshooting and learning about your specific electric car model.

8. Schedule Regular Servicing

Even though electric cars have fewer moving parts than gasoline cars, regular servicing is still necessary. Have trained technicians inspect electrical systems, sensors, and fluids. Official service centers ensure genuine parts and the latest software updates.

Common Mistakes in Electric Car Use

Some common mistakes include letting the battery run empty too often, skipping software updates, neglecting battery and cooling system checks, and avoiding regular servicing. Electric cars are advanced machines that require consistent, detailed care.

Switching from gasoline to electric may take some adjustment, but it’s not difficult once you know these tips. If you’re considering a powerful and efficient electric SUV, Chery offers models like the OMODA E5 for urban driving and the jeep-styled J6 for adventurous journeys. Schedule your test drive today and experience Chery’s futuristic vehicles for yourself.