Whether you’ve recently purchased your first hybrid or electric vehicle or you’re preparing to switch to a more fuel-efficient car, understanding Toyota EV maintenance will help protect your powertrain. Review these four tips from your neighborhood Toyota dealer to keep your EV running smoothly.
4 Toyota EV Maintenance Strategies From Your Local Toyota Dealer
1. Follow the Recommended Maintenance Schedule
Your vehicle’s owner’s manual includes a schedule of recommended maintenance for your Toyota EV. Ideally, you should have a trained Toyota technician perform these services since they have extensive knowledge about your specific model. While fully electric vehicles don’t need oil changes, hybrid Toyota models will still need this service about every 12 months or 10,000 miles.
2. Optimize Battery Health
You can expect your EV battery to last 12 to 15 years according to the Alternative Fuel Data Center. Appropriate care will extend the life of your battery toward the end of that range. Park your EV in a garage if possible to protect the battery from extreme hot and cold temperatures. Use fast charging only when necessary, since it degrades the battery faster than standard charging systems.
In addition, avoid letting the battery run out or charging it up to 100%. Most models maintain the best battery life with charging levels around 90% for daily use.
3. Rotate and Replace Tires Regularly
Tires tend to wear out faster on EV and hybrid vehicles because of the heavier weight of these cars compared to gas-powered models. Keep up with the tire rotation schedule in your owner’s manual. Check the tread frequently to monitor the remaining life of your tires. Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head first. If you can’t see anything above his shoulders, it’s time to replace your tires.
Many EV owners find their tires last about 30,000 miles. Toyota recommends rotating the tires on the bZ4X and other electric models every six months or 5,000 miles. At these service appointments, your technician will also inspect your wiper blades and replace them if needed, check the level of windshield washer fluid, and inspect the brake pads, discs, drums, and linings.
4. Check Coolant Levels
Your EV relies on this fluid to keep the battery at the appropriate temperature. The 2023 bZ4X owner’s manual recommends checking coolant levels every 18 months or 15,000 miles, and other Toyota EVs have similar intervals for this maintenance step.
Without the need for regular oil changes and with fewer mechanical parts, EVs cost less to maintain than traditional gas vehicles. When it’s time for your recommended service, trust your Toyota to the experts. Contact Fox Toyota of El Paso, TX today to test drive our selection of EVs or schedule a maintenance appointment for your vehicle.