Is an electric vehicle in your future? If so, take care of your battery. J.D. Power reports that EV batteries can last 10 to 20 years and that certain factors can help or hinder longevity. Meanwhile, some online sources suggest a replacement EV battery can cost between $6,500 and $20,000.
Consider these 16 bad habits that will shorten the longevity of your EV battery.
Overcharging the EV Battery
It’s possible to overcharge an EV battery. A general rule of thumb is to keep your EV battery between 10% and 80%. Some EV makes and models will notify the driver if they’ve reached the charging limit for the day. Overcharging is one way to shorten the life of your battery.
Driving When It’s (Terribly) Cold Outside
Cold temperatures will slash the expected range of an EV. But it can do more harm. Charging an EV battery when it’s ice-cold outdoors can reduce the battery’s lifespan. That’s especially true if you park your vehicle outside during the winter. You can make things easier on your battery by driving your EV to warm it up before plugging it in to charge.
Relying Too Much on Level 3 Chargers
Another driver error that may shorten the longevity of their EV batteries is an overreliance on Level 3 chargers. Yes, they charge super-fast and will cut down on wait times, but too much of a good thing can put undue stress on EV batteries. So, by all means, use Level 3 chargers. But do so infrequently. You’re better off using Level 2 chargers instead.
Driving Like a Speed Demon
Driving a vehicle too hard all the time will have a negative impact. That’s true whether driving an EV or an internal combustion engine vehicle. If your miles between charges drop drastically because of driving too hard, slamming on the brakes, and putting the EV through its paces as if it were a racecar, battery degradation is inevitable. Your battery will last longer if you’re more restrained behind the steering wheel.
Exposing the Vehicle to Extreme Temperatures
If you own an EV, you need a garage, carport, or another structure to protect it from the elements. Leaving it out in the extreme heat or cold won’t do the battery any favors.
Charging Too Frequently
While an overreliance on Level 3 chargers can do a number on your EV battery so, too, can charging too frequently. Charging daily should be avoided. Remember that the sweet spot for your battery is a charge between 10% and 80%. You can go up to 90%, though. If you commute daily and don’t have to top up, don’t. Being mindful of this will lengthen high-voltage battery life.
Storing Your EV Improperly
Storing your EV for long periods can negatively impact the battery. If you leave your EV undriven during the fall and winter, the EV battery capacity might be lower when you take the vehicle out of storage in the spring. You can prevent this by periodically charging it when it’s in storage so the battery doesn’t completely discharge.
Failing to Balance the Battery
A modern EV won’t need your intervention to balance the battery. But if you have an EV without this feature, you must follow certain steps to even out the charging distribution. Doing this will ensure you get the most out of the EV battery’s capacity.
Failing to Use the On-Board Computer to Monitor Battery Health and Performance
The on-board computer is your friend. It provides a wealth of information to help you get the most out of your EV battery. You can look at the battery’s health and performance over time and see the impact certain driving habits have on the EV battery.
Allowing the Battery to Drain Completely
Allowing your EV battery to drain to zero is a big no-no. While charging daily should be avoided, letting the battery completely discharge will shorten its lifespan. And it’ll cost a ton to replace it.
Leaving the Charger Plugged in After EV Has Fully Charged
Get out of the habit of leaving the charger plugged into your EV even after the vehicle has fully charged. Making this error can generate excessive heat and, over time, will hurt the battery.
Opting Not to Download Software Updates
One of the neat things about EVs is that automakers can improve their performance and add new features over the air via software updates. Sometimes the software updates include tweaks that optimize battery charging and discharging cycles. But you won’t get these benefits if you don’t download these updates.
Skipping Routine Maintenance
Some people think owning an EV means never having to go in for maintenance. Those people are, in one word, wrong. One reason to go in for maintenance is an EV technician can, if there’s something wrong with your EV battery, take steps to correct the problems and save your battery.
Failing to Get Battery Inspected at the First Sign of Issues
If you notice any issues with your EV battery, don’t ignore them. Go to an EV technician who can check the battery, diagnose it, tell you what’s wrong, and fix the problems.
Neglecting to Maintain the Charging Plug and Cable
Don’t forget to maintain the cable and plug. Failing to do that can have negative consequences. Damaged components can cause overheating, inefficient charging, and safety problems. For the sake of your EV and battery, maintain the plug and cable.
Lending Your EV to Someone Who Doesn’t Know Any of the 15 Points Above
Doing all of the above 15 things will be all for not if you let people borrow your vehicle who won’t follow all of them. That’s one reason to be mindful of who uses your EV.
EV Batteries Cost a Lot — So, Make Yours Last
Considering how long EV batteries can last and how much they cost to replace, you’ll want to exercise caution. Following these 16 tips will help your EV battery to live a long life.
More From Driver’s Drift
15 Reasons to Avoid Automatic Car Washes at All Costs
15 Compelling Reasons to Avoid Buying a Car With a Sunroof
14 Items You Should Never Leave in Your Car
