On the Road Again: Quick Solutions for Stranded EV Drivers

Let’s start with the bad news. Although they’re the upgrade on their gasoline counterparts, electric vehicles (EVs) can still experience breakdowns. Their unique setup presents a new set of challenges that EV drivers need to be aware of.

The good news? Well, we’re here to arm you with the knowledge needed to quickly spot and resolve these issues. Let’s get started.

Common EV Problems on the Road

As mentioned, EVs have their own unique issues alongside some of those found in traditional cars. Being aware of these issues and how to address them is the difference between getting back on the road quickly and being standard.

1. Battery Depletion

The most common issue is your battery running out of juice. Unfortunately, charging stations aren’t as common as gas stations, especially in rural areas. Although your EV will inform you of the low charge, it can be easy to get your distances wrong, especially in colder weather, where your charge can drop by 30%.

Quick Solution: Mobile Charging Units

Many roadside assistance providers now offer mobile charging units. These portable systems can provide a quick charge to get you to the nearest charging station, eliminating the need for a tow and saving valuable time.

2. Software Malfunctions

Although normal cars have a computer controlling certain functions, it’s not a patch on an EV’s software. If these glitch or freeze, then you can be in serious trouble. Unresponsive controls, malfunctioning navigation, and failure to start are all consequences of this.

Quick Solution: Soft Reset

Most EVs have a built-in soft reset function, similar to restarting a computer. You can reboot the system by holding down specific buttons. Check your manual or contact a reliable EV roadside technician who can guide you through the process.

3. Tire Blowouts

Not unique to EVs, but a blown or flat tire is a common problem on any road trip. EVs may be more prone to tire wear due to their increased weight than other cars.

Quick Solution: Tire Repair Kits

EVs tend to have space constraints, so they will come with a tire repair kit rather than a spare tire. These kits will include sealants and air compressors so you can patch and inflate your flat tire until you reach a service station. If the damage is more severe, you will have to contact a roadside assistance team.

4. Brake Issues

EVs use regenerative braking, a system that captures energy during braking and feeds it back into the battery. While this is great for efficiency, it can lead to various problems, including brake malfunction.

Quick Solution: Brake System Check

If regenerative brakes fail, EVs typically switch to traditional hydraulic brakes. However, if both systems fail, pull over immediately. Technicians can check for software errors or physical malfunctions in the braking system.

5. Charging Port Failures

Sometimes, the issue isn’t finding a charging station but the charging port itself. If the charging port fails, the car can't receive power. Even with a power station nearby, you’re now standard.

Quick Solution: Port Clean-Up or Reset

Dust, debris, or even moisture can affect the charging port’s functionality. Technicians may clean the port or perform a system reset to restore proper function. If the port is damaged, towing to the nearest EV service center might be necessary.

Preparing for the Unexpected

While EV technology is reliable, it’s always good to be prepared. Here’s what every EV driver should have in their car:

• Portable EV charger: A Level 1 portable charger can be plugged into any standard outlet.
• Tire repair kit: As mentioned, many EVs come with these kits. It’s vital to know how to use them.
• Phone apps: Apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint can help locate the nearest charging station.
• EV roadside assistance plan: Understanding where to find EV towing services if all else fails.
• This article: Save this article somewhere easy to access so you can use it as a reference when you break down.

Final Thoughts 

The next time you break down in your EV, stay calm and think back to what you’ve read today. You know what to do next, whether it's a low battery, software glitch, or flat tire. With this knowledge and access to EV roadside assistance, you can confidently hit the road, knowing help is just a call away.

You might also like to check out our article about what to do if your EV breaks down.