Sep 18, 2024

Going with one of Ford’s electric vehicles is a bit of a no-brainer, and here’s why: they require very little maintenance compared to gas-powered cars. But before you start imagining a life completely free of garage visits, there are a few things to know about maintaining electric vehicles in Florida.

Essential Maintenance Tips for Ford Electric Vehicles in Florida

Battery Care

At the heart of every Ford EV is a battery pack that’s been built to handle both your daily drives and those epic road trips with the same level of effortless reliability. To get the most out of this powerhouse:

1. Charge Up to 90%

Your battery has a limited number of charge cycles, i.e., the number of times it can be discharged from full to empty. So, it’s best to top it up to 90% rather than going all the way up to 100% every time. While a 100% charge might give you more range, consistently hitting that maximum level accelerates battery degradation over time.

However, this doesn’t mean you should never charge to 100%; just doing that all the time is not ideal for long-term battery health. Fully charging the battery is perfectly fine for those occasional long drives when you need extra range.

2. Use Fast Charging Only When Needed

If your battery level gets low, a fast charger can be a convenient solution. And you should certainly take advantage of it when you require a quick boost. Frequent use of fast charging, however, can generate extra heat and put more stress on the battery. Stick to level 1 or level 2 chargers as much as possible.

Other Maintenance Tasks

1. Check Fluid Levels

EVs may have fewer fluids than their gas-guzzling cousins, but don’t get too relaxed. You still need to keep an eye on the brake fluid, windshield wiper, and coolant levels.

2. Check Tire Pressure

Since EVs are typically heavy due to their battery packs, maintaining tire pressure is even more important. Properly inflated tires give a longer range, better handling, and a smoother ride. You should also rotate your tires every six months to ensure even wear.

All these tasks are just a part of the grand adventure of driving an electric car. And luckily, you won’t be alone in this journey, as we are here to help every step of the way. Contact Coco Ford in Cocoa, FL, for expert service.