5 Essential Safety Checks for EV Drivers Before Calling a Tow Truck

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more popular than ever, with sales being 35% higher in 2023 than in the previous year. Although they outperform their conventional engine counterparts in many areas, it doesn’t mean they’re invincible. Breakdowns can occur, and you may need to call for a professional EV towing service. 

But are you jumping the gun too early? There may be some simple checks you can carry out before calling for assistance. Here, we’ve outlined five precautions that can save you time and prevent further damage to your vehicle!

1. Check the High-Voltage Battery Level

Your vehicle’s battery powers everything from acceleration to the onboard computer. Battery depletion is one of the most common causes of EV breakdown, so this should be your first port of call. 

• How to check: Most EVs display the battery's state of charge (SOC) on the dashboard. If it’s low, see if you can reach a nearby charging station.
• Why it matters: Operating an EV with an empty battery risks further damage to the battery management system (BMS) or other electronics.

2. Inspect the Tires for Damage

Just like regular cars, EV’s can suffer from a range of tire problems. In fact, due to them being heavier than traditional vehicles, this puts more stress on the tires, so routine inspections are essential.  

• What to look for: Check for punctures, uneven wear, or objects lodged in the tread. Also, ensure proper inflation using your onboard tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
• Why it matters: Driving on a damaged tire can compromise the suspension system and lead to more expensive repairs.

3. Evaluate the Cooling Systems

Just because there’s no engine doesn’t mean that the onboard can’t overheat. EVs come with a thermal management system that keeps the battery, inverter, and motor at optimal temperatures. 

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Yes, EVs need cooling, too! The thermal management system keeps the battery, inverter, and motor at optimal temperatures.

• How to inspect: Look for any warning lights related to the cooling system on your dashboard. If your EV has a visible reservoir, ensure the coolant is appropriate.
• Why it matters: Overheating can severely damage components like the inverter module, which could mean costly repairs.

4. Ensure Safe Power-Off of the Vehicle

This may seem like an obvious step, but we’re always surprised. If you call for a tow, please power down the vehicle correctly to ensure its safety. 

• How to do it:some text
  • Shift the vehicle to “PARK.”
  • Follow the manufacturer's shutdown procedure to ensure the high-voltage system is disconnected.
• Why it matters: Incorrect shutdown can result in an active high-voltage system, posing a safety risk for you and the towing personnel.

5. Confirm Tow Compatibility

Not all towing methods are safe for EVs. EVs often require flatbed or wheel-lift towing to avoid damage to the drivetrain components.

• What to verify:some text
  • Check your owner's manual for specific towing instructions.
  • Ensure the towing service has EV-compatible equipment, such as flatbeds.
• Why it matters: Using improper towing methods can damage the electric motor or other key systems.

Bonus Tip: Consult Your EV’s Manual

Your EV manual is a treasure trove of information for handling emergencies. Familiarize yourself with its guidelines for breakdown scenarios, including resetting systems or jump-starting options if available.

If this happens to you, don’t panic; make sure you know what to do by checking out our article about essential advice for EV drivers facing a breakdown.

Recap

Preparing for a breakdown might not be glamorous, but it’s vital for EV drivers. You can prevent minor issues from becoming major headaches by checking your battery, tires, and cooling system and ensuring proper shutdown and towing methods.