• Maintaining your Electric Vehicle or Hybrid

Maintaining your Electric Vehicle or Hybrid

It's something we sometimes don’t think about when we have a shiny new car to play with. But we all need to think about the maintenance of anything we use on a daily basis, and this includes our electric vehicles. Not only is this to ensure that they’re performing at maximum capacity; it’s also to ensure we get our money’s worth for a long time to come.

The good news is that one of the major benefits of owning an electric vehicle is that they’re really easy to maintain. Try not to be swayed by the long-established myth that they’re difficult and expensive – this is just not true! ​Similarly, hybrid models will typically cost less in maintenance because there is less wear and tear on the combustion engine. This is because it’s not used when the car is idling or driving at low speeds which is when the electric motor takes over. Brake pads and brakes themselves tend to last much longer in hybrid and EV models as a result of the lower heat involved in the regenerative braking system.

EVs have fewer moving parts than conventional petrol and diesel cars, and therefore a much smaller number of components that need regular check-ups, servicing and repairs. While every EV model will have its own unique aspects, just like a regular vehicle, there are things that every EV owner can do. Regardless of the model you have, you can keep your electric car in tip-top condition. As with any vehicle you own, monitoring your EV will stop any minor glitches turning into big problems. The first thing you can do is keep an eye on the battery.

You should be all set for the first 100,000 miles – and that’s a lot of driving – but it’s wise to remember that constantly charging it to full capacity might mean it wears out more quickly. It might also affect the car’s regenerative braking ability, so a charge of around 80% is a good place to start.

We also advise you to think regularly about the brake function, the tyres, keeping the car’s fluids topped up (although it doesn’t need oil, you still need to maintain coolant, brake fluid and windscreen wash), and replacing the air cabin filter to keep the inside fresh. Unlike a traditional vehicle, you should also update your EV’s software. Just like implementing the latest iOS or Android update, the latest software for your car will ensure it runs smoothly and for a longer length of time, which is something we all want.

When it comes to servicing your EV, you may find it trickier to swing into your local garage. This is because not all car workshops have staff trained in EV maintenance. Wilsons, however, has a number of highly-trained technicians on hand who are specialists at EV maintenance and repair, and we will happily carry out any service you require for your EV.

For more information on EV servicing and maintenance, browse our website by clicking on the links below.

  • Maintaining your Electric Vehicle or Hybrid
  • Maintaining your Electric Vehicle or Hybrid 2
  • Maintaining your Electric Vehicle or Hybrid 3
  • Maintaining your Electric Vehicle or Hybrid 4
  • Electric Vehicle Air Conditioning
    Don't fall victim to your air conditioning failing when you need it most. It is recommended by most manufacturers to service the air conditioning system every two years. This service undertakes a thorough inspection of the system including a complete recharge of the air con gas and a cleanse of the evaporator. SIGNS THAT YOUR AIR CONDITIONING MAY NEED ATTENTION: Persistent condensation on the windows. A reduction in the efficiency of the cooling or heating of the cabin area. Unpleasant odours. If you notice any of these signs, you can book your car into our Wilsons Epsom service centr...
  • Electric Vehicle Brake Pads & Discs
    The brakes on a car are one of the most important features and if they don't work properly, you are putting your life and the lives of any passengers at risk. In electric cars, the brakes don't wear down as quickly as traditional diesel and petrol cars do, partly due to most EVs being lighter thanks to fewer mechanical parts. It is still advisable to ensure that your brakes are checked at least every two years or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. You can bring your car to our Wilsons service centre in Epsom for a full replacement set of brake discs and pads from just £282. We guarant...
Transport For London

Cars need to meet minimum emission standards when travelling in the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) or the daily charge must be paid.

Minimum emission standards

Petrol: Euro 4
Diesel: Euro 6

The ULEZ will be enforced based on the declared emissions of the vehicle rather than the age. However:

Information from Transport For London

Check this car on the TFL website before purchasing: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/check-your-vehicle/

All our vehicles are subject to an Admin Fee. Our Admin Fee covers any additional administration needed during your transaction, including a thorough provenance check (HPI Check). The admin fee also includes the cost to fully valet, register and, if necessary, MOT your vehicle (if less than 6 months left of current MOT).

Our administration fee is a variable fee which covers the additional administration needed when transacting with different categories of customers as specified. Retail Customers £199.00 - (Private buyers - NOT an owner, partner or director of a new/used vehicle sales company). Retail Customers using a finance broker outside our official panel of lenders paying funds direct to Wilsons Epsom - £399.00. All fees are inclusive of VAT.