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Pakenham Car Service, Diagnostics & Repairs
For friendly service from a trusted independent local mechanic in Pakenham you can rely on the team at Andrews Autos
Read moreLooking After Your Electric Vehicle: Essential Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Reliability
Buying an electric vehicle (EV) is a significant investment. Looking after it with regular servicing and the right maintenance can help maximise its range, performance and long-term value.
As more Australian drivers make the switch to electric and hybrid vehicles, it's easy to assume they require little or no maintenance. While EVs have fewer moving parts than conventional petrol or diesel vehicles, they still need regular inspections by qualified technicians to keep them operating safely and efficiently.
At Andrews Autos, we provide professional servicing for electric and hybrid vehicles, helping local drivers in Pakenham protect their investment with expert care and the latest diagnostic equipment.
Why Do Electric Vehicles Still Need Servicing?
Unlike conventional vehicles, electric vehicles don't require engine oil changes, spark plugs or timing belts. However, many other components still wear over time and need regular inspection.
Routine EV servicing typically includes checking:
- Braking system condition and brake fluid
- Suspension and steering components
- Tyres and wheel alignment
- High-voltage battery health
- Cooling systems for the battery and electric motor
- Cabin air filters
- Windscreen wipers and washer system
- Vehicle software updates (where applicable)
- Charging system and charging ports
- 12-volt auxiliary battery condition
Regular servicing helps identify small issues before they become costly repairs and ensures your vehicle continues to operate safely.
Hybrid Vehicles Need Expert Care Too
Hybrid vehicles combine a petrol engine with an electric motor and battery system, meaning they require servicing of both systems.
At Andrews Autos, our technicians are trained to service hybrid vehicles, carrying out everything from routine maintenance through to electrical system diagnostics using specialised equipment.
Whether you drive a fully electric vehicle or a hybrid, choosing a workshop with the right training and equipment is essential.
EV Battery Health Matters
The high-voltage battery is the single most valuable component in an electric vehicle.
While EV batteries are designed to last many years, their performance naturally changes over time depending on age, charging habits, climate and vehicle usage.
Andrews Autos can:
- Test EV battery condition and performance
- Diagnose battery-related faults
- Replace EV batteries when required
- Provide advice on maintaining battery health
Early testing can often identify issues before they affect driving range or vehicle performance.
Not All Tyres Are Designed for Electric Vehicles
One maintenance item many new EV owners overlook is their tyres.
Electric vehicles are generally heavier than petrol vehicles due to the battery pack and deliver instant torque, placing greater demands on the tyres.
Specially designed EV tyres offer benefits including:
- Higher load carrying capacity
- Lower rolling resistance to help maximise driving range
- Reduced road noise
- Improved durability
- Better grip under acceleration
Andrews Autos can supply and fit tyres specifically designed for electric vehicles while ensuring correct wheel alignment for even tyre wear.
An Environmentally Conscious Workshop
Looking after an environmentally friendly vehicle deserves an environmentally conscious workshop.
Andrews Autos is committed to reducing its environmental footprint through the use of solar panels and battery storage, helping power daily workshop operations with renewable energy.
To make servicing even more convenient, the workshop also features seven on-site EV charging stations, allowing many customers to have their vehicle charged while it's being serviced.
It's a practical way to help reduce downtime while supporting cleaner transport.
Tips to Help Protect Your EV Investment
A few simple habits can help maximise battery life and reduce long-term running costs.
Avoid Constant 100% Charging
For everyday driving, many manufacturers recommend charging to around 80% unless you need maximum range for a longer trip.
Don't Let the Battery Sit Empty
Leaving an EV battery completely discharged for extended periods can reduce its long-term health.
Use the Right Charging Equipment
Always use approved charging equipment and have any home charging systems professionally installed.
Rotate Tyres Regularly
The additional weight of an EV means tyres can wear differently from conventional vehicles. Regular rotations and wheel alignments help maximise tyre life.
Keep Software Updated
Vehicle software updates often improve battery management, efficiency and vehicle performance.
Service Your EV on Schedule
Following the manufacturer's recommended servicing intervals helps ensure the entire vehicle—not just the battery—remains in excellent condition.
FAQ
Do electric vehicles still need regular servicing?
Yes. While EVs require less maintenance than petrol vehicles, important components such as brakes, suspension, tyres, cooling systems, batteries and safety systems still need regular inspection.
How often does my electric car need to be serviced?
Always follow your vehicle manufacturer's recommended service schedule, which may be based on time, kilometres travelled or both. An electric motor can last 15 to 20 years if used in normal conditions. But, with external components such as dirt, temperature changes and movement, it's important to service your car regularly to ensure that it’s safe and reliable.
What does an electric vehicle service include?
Most services will include regular vehicle checks such as brakes, cabin air filters, shock absorbers, essential fluids e.g brake fluid and coolant, windscreen wiper blades, tyres and lights.
The EV battery is also an importance part and should be regulary checked and replaced as needed.
Can an EV battery be tested?
Absolutely. Battery health testing can identify changes in performance, capacity or faults before they become more serious.
What sort of battery does my electric car need?
This is dependant on the vehicle make and model. It is important that extreme caution should be excersied around these battery systems as they are complex and require specialist PPE and qualified technicians to complete.
Why do EVs use different tyres?
Electric vehicles are heavier and produce instant torque. EV-specific tyres are designed to carry the additional weight while improving efficiency, grip and durability.
What is regenerative braking?
Regenerative braking is where your EV’s kinetic energy is converted to electrical energy during braking and stored in the batteries.
Why Choose Andrews Autos?
Electric and hybrid vehicles require specialised knowledge, equipment and ongoing training.
As a Repco Authorised Service centre, Andrews Autos has access to advanced diagnostic information, quality parts and continual technical training, allowing our technicians to confidently service the latest electric and hybrid vehicles.
If you're looking for trusted electric vehicle servicing in Pakenham, contact Andrews Autos to book your next service or discuss the best maintenance plan for your EV or hybrid vehicle.
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