Tips for EV Maintenance in the Winter
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With the cold weather setting in, we're all thinking about how we can make the cold months a little more tolerable. With more drivers getting electric vehicles every day, it is critical for them to be well-informed about how to care for them all year round properly. There are a few key ways for EV owners to ensure that their vehicle is ready to get through the winter months without any roadblocks. Here at East Hills Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, we strive to help our customers fully understand the needs of their vehicles and how to meet them. Continue reading down below to learn more!
Keep the Vehicle Warm
Of course, the biggest difference between an EV and a gas-powered vehicle is the battery. Lithium-ion batteries, like the ones used in EVs, are more sensitive to cold temperatures. While some EVs come with countermeasures to keep the batteries from freezing, it is important to keep your car as warm as possible. For example, keeping it in the garage when it is not being used. Also, if a garage isn't an option, at least parking it in a place with plenty of sun exposure will help.
Winter EV Charging Tips
It's important to think ahead and plan out when you will need the most charge for your vehicle this winter. For example, if you need to leave for work early in the morning and temperatures are going to be below freezing overnight, charge the vehicle so that it finishes as close to the time you need to leave as possible, as opposed to charging it the night before. This will ensure maximum power before you leave. Keep in mind that charging times may take longer in cold weather because the Battery Management System regulates the charging speed to keep the battery safe.
Preheat the Vehicle
Before heading out in the cold, you should warm up the car for around 30 minutes while it is still plugged in. This gets the battery warmed up so that it holds a charge better, thus maintaining maximum range. When you get behind the wheel, you should lower the cabin temperature and use the heated seats and steering wheel (if equipped) to stay comfortable. It is critical that you leave the vehicle plugged in while warming it up. That way, instead of using battery power to run, it is using power from the external power source without decreasing the battery's state of charge.
Keep it Charged
While EVs can be used in the winter, some EV owners choose to keep a secondary gas-powered vehicle that they use during the winter months. If you decide to do this, it is important to charge your EV to at least 70% before storing it for an extended period of time. This will help reduce the likelihood of anything happening that could be potentially harmful to your battery's health. Similarly, if you use your EV during the winter, it's important that you don't leave your car sitting at a low battery percentage overnight without charging, as this can be harmful to its battery. Lastly, it is advised to keep your battery at least 20% charged in the winter months.
Get an Electric Vehicle at East Hills CJDR
Electric vehicles and their technology are relatively new to many drivers, and it is understandable if you are a bit confused. However, when you choose East Hills Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, you will get the best advice on how to keep your EV performing its best all year round. If you have any questions, we are standing by to answer them. We hope to hear from you soon!