Electric cars are becoming an increasingly popular option among consumers in the United States, especially those who want to be more mindful of their environmental impact. While these vehicles may need less maintenance than a traditional car with an internal combustion engine, they still require the services of an experienced automotive technician. Learn more in this blog post from NYADI The College of Transportation Technology in Jamaica, NY.

What Is an Electric Vehicle?

An electric vehicle (EV) is an automobile whose motor is powered by a battery. While electric cars are not new, they have become more common, with the rise of international brands such as Tesla. Fully electric vehicles run exclusively on electric power, while hybrid vehicles have an internal combustion engine (ICE) as well as an electric battery.

Some EVs are charged by plugging into a power source. Others are powered through a process called regenerative braking, which converts the friction generated by a car’s braking system into electricity to recharge the battery.

Maintenance for Electric Cars

In addition to the benefit of their smaller carbon footprint, EVs also appeal to consumers because they typically require less ongoing maintenance than your typical gasoline-powered engine. However, electric cars still need periodic service. Many automotive technicians will find themselves working on a variety of vehicles – conventional, fully electric, and hybrid. Automotive technicians who service electric cars often provide the following:

Regular Service Checks

While recommendations vary by model, many EV manufacturers advise a biannual service check. During this visit, the technician will inspect the vehicle’s system and rotate the tires. Tire rotation is especially important because electric cars tend to be heavier than their gas-powered equivalents, placing more wear and tear on the tires. Regular rotations extend their usable life.

While EV engines have fewer parts, there are plenty of other aspects of electric cars that still need care. An electric car mechanic still will need to provide routine replacements of items such as cabin air filters, windshield fluid, and wiper blades.

Battery Maintenance and Replacement

Most EVs come with a battery that is designed to last for the expected lifetime of the car, so the owner may not need to replace the battery. However, some electric cars have a liquid coolant system that keeps the battery at a safe temperature. These cooling systems may need to be inspected regularly by a technician. If a battery does need to be replaced, it may be covered by a manufacturer’s warranty. Technicians also can use diagnostic software to evaluate EV battery performance.

Hybrid Vehicle Maintenance

Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) have internal combustion engines, so they still require oil changes, and their maintenance requirements are closer to those of conventional cars. They will still need brake pad and disc replacements, but because of their regenerative braking systems, these repairs will be less frequent.

Overall, automotive technicians may find that customers who own EVs will spend less money at the mechanic. According to Consumer Reports, electric car owners can save over $4,000 on average in repair and maintenance expenses. However, vehicle technicians will find themselves in demand. Electric vehicles have high voltage wiring, meaning even the most eager car enthusiasts shouldn’t tinker at home. Any type of EV service or repair should be left to a qualified professional.

Prepare for a Career in the Automotive Industry

As more auto manufacturers make the shift toward hybrid and electric cars, there will be a growing need for trained and qualified mechanics who can service and maintain these vehicles. At NYADI The College of Transportation Technology, located in Jamaica, NY, we’re here to help the next generation of auto mechanics get the hands-on education they need to succeed in the field. With experienced instructors and small class sizes, students can pursue an associate degree or certificate through NYADI’s academic programs, including:

• Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) in Automotive Technology
• Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) in Automotive and Diesel Technology
• Certificate in Automotive Service Technology
• Certificate in Collision Repair Technology
• Certificate in Truck and Diesel Service Technology

As an accredited technical college, NYADI is eligible to participate in Title IV Federal Financial Aid Programs and assistance is available to students who qualify. To learn more or sign up for an information session, contact an admissions representative today.