EV/Hybrid Maintenance

EV/Hybrid Maintenance at Stanley Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM Brownwood

Even though they’ve been around for years, electric models are still relatively new to the market. If you’re looking at purchasing an EV, you’re going to want to know how to properly take care of it. When you’re near Coleman, Brownwood, or Comanche, and you’re looking for your next model, you’re going to want to head to Stanley Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM Brownwood, where you’ll find a huge selection of hybrid, PHEV, and fully electric vehicles. 

Battery Care

When you’re driving a gasoline or diesel-based model, the engine is your number one priority. It’s often the most expensive part of your vehicle and requires a lot of maintenance to stay in proper condition. Similarly, you’re going to want to focus on your battery when driving an electric model. You’ll want to make sure that you prolong its life by paying attention to how long you charge it, as undercharging and overcharging can wreak havoc on its health over time. You’re also going to want to keep a close eye on the temperature, as it can directly affect your performance. Hot conditions will make it harder for your battery to function, while cold temperatures can drastically decrease its deficiency, causing you to lose some of your range. When you find that the temperature outside is a bit too hot or cold, you’ll want to focus on where you park your vehicle, so that you can shield it from the conditions outside. 

Your Tires

The main overlap you’ll find between gasoline-based models and electric vehicles revolves around your tires. When you’re behind the wheel, you’re going to want to make sure that your tires are properly maintained so that you have smooth, effortless performance. 

• Tire Rotation: As your tires grind against the road, not all of them will receive the same amount of wear. By rotating your tires, you’ll be able to switch your healthy tires with your poor ones, where they won’t have to deal with as much friction. This prolongs the life of your set by a hefty amount.
• Tire Balancing: When your tires don’t weigh the same amount, you’re going to be in for one bouncy ride. While there are multiple ways to balance your wheels, this service essentially makes sure that they all weigh the same. 
• Wheel Alignment: When your wheel seems to keep pulling you to one side, you’re going to want to invest in a wheel alignment. This sets your tires straight and can prolong their life. 

Knowing Your Vehicle

While some vehicles claim to be electric, they still might have conventional components. If you drive a hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid model, you’re going to want to make sure that you still get oil changes and fluid refills. While these vehicles utilize electricity for their performance, it’s important to note that they still have a conventional engine as well. You’ll want to make sure that you maintain it in the same way that you would maintain a normal vehicle. On top of oil changes, you’ll want to pay attention to your coolant, and other systems. You’ll also want to know if your vehicle contains a gear reduction transmission or gearbox, as these may need to be lubricated over time.