Electric Car Inspections: What You Need To Know

  

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Electric vehicles (EV) are all the rage today due to the fact they are eco-friendly and have lower operating costs than their gas-powered counterparts. However, owners often wonder whether these e-cars need inspection and what is involved during the process. Let’s find out.

Do Electric Cars Require Inspection?

The answer is “yes”! However, the requirements for the inspection of an e-car differ from those of gasoline-powered vehicles. Things like changing oil and filters, checking the exhaust system, and replacing spark plugs are all costly maintenance tasks that are not required for an electric vehicle. 

Inspection Requirements for Electric Cars

Typically, electric cars undergo safety and emission inspections quite similar to that of conventional cars. The specifics, however, depend on your region and local rules and regulations. The following is a general breakdown of what is checked during an EV inspection:

• Safety Inspections

Safety inspection is mandatory almost everywhere in the world as it ensures e-vehicles are roadworthy and comply with environmental standards. The following will be checked during this inspection:

• Brake System: Unlike conventional vehicles, electric cars have regenerative braking systems that require checking periodically, even though it reduces wear. Inspectors may check brake pads, rotors, and overall brake performance before ticking the box.
• Lights & Signals: Lights and signals are essential for car safety and communication with other cars on the road. The headlights, taillights, turn signals, and other lighting systems are inspected for proper operation.
• Tires & Suspension: Good tires can help a car start, stop, and turn smoothly, even in unexpected road conditions. Therefore, maintenance of proper tire pressure and suspension is necessary to ensure a safe driving experience.
• Wipers & Windshields: In order to maintain good visibility during unexpected weather conditions, wipers and windshields should be maintained and checked for smooth operation.

• Structural Integrity: Inspectors may also evaluate and analyze the vehicle’s frame, chassis, and undercarriage for damage or rust. 

• Electric Systems & Battery Health

The electrical systems and battery are the main organs of the car. Inspectors may review electrical connections and wiring to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion. In addition, they may also check the high-voltage battery for signs of damage.

• Emission Tests

All electric vehicles produce lower tailpipe emissions than conventional vehicles. However, when running on electricity, EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions. It is still a good idea to get it checked.

Tips To Keep Your EV In Good Condition

Here’s how you keep your electric vehicle in prime condition.

1. Charge Regularly

Rather than charging fully at once, it’s best to charge your electric car in frequent intervals. This helps to sustain your EV’s battery health and prolongs its life by reducing the amount of time a high percentage restores the battery.

You can also have a charging station right at your home. Electric vehicle charging station installation in St. Louis brings homeowners and businesses convenience, lots of savings, and also reduces queues in public charging stations. 

1. Avoid Extreme Temperatures:

Keep your electric car covered in a garage with a normal temperature range. Exposure to heat and cold may cause harm to your EV’s battery.

1. Keep Tires Inflated:

If your EV’s tires are underinflated, it increases rolling resistance, which means it takes a lot more power to move your vehicle.

1. Try Eco Mode:

Eco-friendly commuting is an innovative alternative for a greener future. Try the eco mode in electric vehicles, which is designed to reduce energy consumption and also extend the life of your EV battery.

1. Use Regenerative Braking:

The regenerative braking system is designed to capture energy when you brake and convert it back to electricity to recharge your EV’s battery. It is an excellent feature that not only extends battery life but also improves your EV’s overall efficiency and gives you a pleasant driving experience. 

1. Avoid Sudden Increases/Decreases In Speed:

A sudden increase or decrease in the speed requires extra energy that can reduce the overall lifespan of your EV’s battery. Try maintaining a constant speed, which will not only conserve battery power but also promote a safer driving experience. 

1. Keep Your EV Battery Software Updated:

Electric cars depend on software updates rather than hardware ones. This improves battery management enhances the vehicle’s performance, and longevity. 

How Often Should An Electric Car Be Inspected?

There are many reasons why you should choose an electric car over a conventional one; one of those reasons is that the maintenance costs are lower. Why? The best thing about electric cars is that they require minimum repairs, hence saving you boatloads of money. 

It is typically recommended to have your car inspected annually or biennially. However, you can have your EV’s lithium-ion battery checked every six months to ensure it is in good condition. 

How Do EV Inspections Differ from Gas-Powered Cars?

The absence of a traditional engine in EVs reduces the complexity of inspections. Here are some differences:

• No Oil Checks: EVs do not need oil changes, therefore, this routine check is not required.
• Fewer Mechanical Parts: With fewer moving parts, there’s less wear and tear, simplifying the inspection process.
• Focus on Software: Many EV inspections may include software updates and diagnostics to ensure the vehicle's systems are up-to-date.

Why Conduct Regular EV Inspections?

EV Inspections are crucial. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why it is.

• Increased Longevity: Identifying and fixing small issues early can extend the battery life of your EV. 
• Safety: Regular inspections ensure that your car is safe to drive and is roadworthy. 
• Legal Compliance: Staying up to date with inspections helps you avoid penalties. Check your region’s rules and regulations in regard to driving electric cars and what is the protocol on inspections. 

Final Thoughts

Maintaining a regular inspection of your electric vehicle can help detect potential problems early and resolve them before they turn out to be expensive repairs.

Charge in frequent intervals, avoid sudden acceleration/decelerations, keep tires inflated, avoid extreme temperatures, and use the eco mode to prolong your EV’s battery life and keep it in good condition.