Electric cars are becoming more and more popular, as people become more aware of the benefits they offer. Not only are electric cars environmentally friendly, but they’re also efficient and save you money on gas. However, like any other type of car, electric cars require occasional repairs. And just like with traditional gasoline-powered cars, those repairs can be expensive if you don’t know how to do them yourself.
Why does it cost so much more?
Because diagnosing and repairing electric car issues takes longer. Technicians worked 1.5 times as long on electric vehicles as they did on gasoline-powered vehicles. To begin with, those technicians are more expensive. Working on electric vehicles necessitates extra credentials that most technicians lack. Those who do charge around 1.3 times the national average hourly rate.
Here are 5 ways to get your electric car repaired without spending a lot of money:
1. Take it to a certified mechanic.
Many mechanics have experience repairing electric cars and will be able to do so at a reasonable price.
2. Look for online resources.
There are many websites that offer step-by-step instructions on how to fix common issues with electric cars. This can be a great option if you’re comfortable doing the repairs yourself.
3. Use aftermarket parts.
Oftentimes, aftermarket parts are cheaper than original manufacturer parts. If you need to replace a part on your electric car, check out aftermarket options before going to the dealership.
4. Look for used parts.
If you don’t mind getting a little bit dirty, searching for used parts can be a great way to save money on repairs. eBay and Craigslist are both great places to find used car parts.
5. Take it to a junkyard.
If you’re looking for cheap replacement parts, there’s no better place than a junkyard. Just make sure you know what you’re doing before starting any repairs!
Follow these additional tips and you’ll save money on electric car repairs:
Check the fuses: A blown fuse is one of the most common problems with electric cars. Fuses can easily be checked and replaced by following the instructions in your car’s owner’s manual.
Replace the battery: If your car isn’t starting or you’re experiencing other electrical problems, it might be time to replace the battery. Batteries for electric cars can be expensive, but they last longer than batteries for traditional gasoline-powered cars.
Check the brakes: If your electric car is having trouble stopping, it might be time to have the brakes checked.
Clean the connectors: Over time, dirt and corrosion can build up on the connectors between the battery and the car. Cleaning these connectors can help improve performance and extend the life of your battery.
Replace the motor: If your electric car is showing signs of age, such as decreased acceleration or a lack of power, it might be time to replace the motor. Replacing a motor can be expensive, but it’s still cheaper than buying a new car.
Compare Prices
Not all mechanics charge the same amount for repairs. Be sure to get quotes from several different ones before making a decision. You may be surprised at how much of a difference there is in price.
Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule.
This is the best way to ensure that your electric car is running smoothly and doesn’t experience any costly breakdowns. Scheduled maintenance can help you catch any small problems before they turn into big ones.
- Keep your automobile safe from excessive heat and cold. Batteries aren’t fond of sudden temperature swings.
- Batteries should not be completely charged on a frequent basis. Unless you’re going on a lengthy road trip, keep the charge between 20% and 80%. Maintaining a 100 percent charge on a regular basis may cause battery degeneration.
- Invest in a portable charger to keep track of your vehicle’s charging state.
- Understand and verify your warranty, and if required, upgrade.
- There are still a lot of fluids in electric cars that need to be checked and replaced, such as brake fluids and coolants. Maintain a routine for replenishing and replacing required fluids.
- Tires must be rotated on a regular basis due to the quick torque generated by a large battery. If you need to replace them, look for tires made exclusively for electric vehicles.
- Choose from a variety of quick and flexible financing alternatives to help with the cost of essential repairs, such as those caused by collisions.
A Short-Term Challenge
As electric vehicles become more prevalent, the cost problem may become less of a concern. They still make up a small fraction of all vehicles on the road. However, even as overall automobile sales increase in 2021, new electric car sales are expanding five times faster than gasoline-powered car sales.
Final Word
Electric car repair is currently a specialist service. However, it will not stay an uncommon permanent specialty.
Are You Looking for an Independent Auto Repair Shop You Can Trust?
If you’re considering making a change to an independent auto repair mechanic trusted by thousands of happy customers, look no further than autoTECH Blackhawk. Why? We differ from other automotive repair stops because we are a relationship shop. This means that the more of your car repair needs we support you with, the better able we are to customize our recommendations based on your driving habits and needs. Whether you want to keep the daily driver in ‘good enough’ condition, style your new car so that it’s customized just for you, maintain your favorite car in ‘like new’ condition, or even train your whole family to be more knowledgeable about cars – we partner with you to ensure that your cars meet your needs. We also offer an industry-leading 3-Year/36,000 mile warranty, so we only use Original Equipment and manufacturer recommended products. Contact us now to book your no-contact, friendly appointment! We truly value your trust and your business, so thank you for staying local with your auto repair needs.
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