Essential Advice for EV Drivers Facing Breakdowns

Even though electric vehicles (EVs) are known for their reliability, they can still be prone to breakdowns. If this happens to you, this can be a stressful ordeal, especially if you’ve never been in one before. But we’re here to guide you through some essential tips on handling these situations effectively.

Common EV Breakdown Causes

When an electric vehicle breaks down, the reasons often differ from those of their gas-powered counterparts. The most common reasons include:

Battery Depletion

EV batteries have limited ranges, and while most drivers plan their routes carefully, it’s easy to underestimate how quickly charge levels can drop—especially in hilly terrain or during extreme temperatures. Once your battery is completely drained, you’ll require professional assistance to get you back on your way.

Faulty Charging Stations

Although approximately 1000 new charging stations are being added each week, they are still less common in rural or isolated areas. You’re also relying on the station to work correctly if it’s in service at all. If your battery is already low, it may entirely run out before you find another charging point. 

Software Glitches

Although modern cars have ECMs as the brain of their operation, EVs rely heavily on their own unique software. These onboard computers manage everything from the battery levels to regenerative braking systems. However, a technician's intervention can resolve most glitches in these systems.

Mechanical Failures

Despite their futuristic makeup, EVs can still suffer from various mechanical failures. This includes problems with the motor, drivetrain, or braking system.

What to Do If Your EV Breaks Down

Ok, so now you know what’s causing the breakdown. It’s time to figure out what to do when it happens to you. So take a deep breath, stay calm, and follow these steps. 

Move to a Safe Location

Safety is your priority here. If you can, steer your car to the side of the road or a nearby safe spot. If your battery is completely dead, your power steering and brakes may feel heavier and require more effort.

Activate Hazard Lights

Once you’re in the safe spot, get those hazards on. This alerts other drivers to your presence. The last thing you need is to be involved in an accident while waiting for help.

Check for Immediate Fixes

It may seem like a major problem, but you may find that there’s a simple fix available. Check your dashboard to see if there are any error messages. If it’s a software glitch, restarting the vehicle could resolve this. 

Call for Help

If you’re unable to resolve this issue yourself, then it’s time to call for EV roadside assistance. Always mention that you’re driving an electric vehicle so that they can dispatch the right kind of help. This could be a portable battery charging station, software to resolve electrical issues, mechanics to fix mechanical problems, or EV-specialised towing.

Prevention Tips for EV Drivers

Now that we've covered what to do when an EV breaks down let’s focus on how to prevent it from happening in the first place.

Regular Battery Maintenance

Your battery is the heart of your electric vehicle, so keeping it in top condition is essential. Avoid letting the charge drop too low, which can shorten your battery’s lifespan. Avoid extreme temperatures, which can place unnecessary stress on the lithium-ion battery.

Plan Your Routes

Make sure you know where EV charging stations are along your route and how long it will take to reach each one. Apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint provide real-time updates on the availability of nearby chargers. Make sure you always have an alternate charging point in mind in case your primary stop is out of service.

Update Your Software

Like many modern technologies, electric vehicles need regular software updates to fix bugs and improve performance. Before long journeys, ensure that your EV is running the latest version of its software to avoid glitches that could lead to breakdowns.

Keep an Emergency Kit

In case of a breakdown, an emergency kit is a must-have. Your kit should include items like jumper cables, a portable charger, and even a spare tire (though many EVs use run-flat tires instead). Additionally, keeping a list of EV-friendly tow services is a smart move—Myles Wrecker Service, for example, is equipped to handle EV-specific issues.

Final Thoughts

Breakdowns are an unfortunate reality of driving, but with the right preparation and quick thinking, they don’t have to be a disaster. Remember, moving your vehicle to safety, diagnosing any immediate issues, and calling for specialized help are all key steps in getting back on the road. By keeping up with maintenance and planning ahead, you can greatly reduce your risk of experiencing a breakdown in the first place.