If you’ve already made the switch to an electric car, congratulations – you’re ahead of the curve! In the future, states across the country will require drivers to only use electric vehicles (EVs) and leave their old internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles behind. Plus, your incredible savings on gas and maintenance costs will free up more money than ever to fund your adventures – so go out and explore!
But even when you’re excited to blaze your own trail, it’s wise to prepare for the unexpected. EVs are machines just like ICE vehicles, and machines can break down at any time without proper care and planning. That’s why it’s critical to know what to do and who to call if you run into trouble in your electric car.
WHEN DO ELECTRIC CARS NEED ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE?
While EVs present their own unique challenges to both drivers and mechanics if they break down, they’re still prone to the same roadside issues as any other vehicle on the road. The most common reasons your electric car might need roadside assistance include:
Low Battery Charge
Remember running out of gas in your old ICE vehicle? The same concept applies to EVs when it comes to battery charge. Batteries in electric cars have come a long way in the past few years, but they still require a regular charge to keep them running at full speed. Plus, the unfortunately limited number of charge points spread across the country means you always have to know where you’re headed. Make sure any route you take has charge points along the way or else you’ll find yourself stranded long before you reach your destination.
Dead Battery
Even the highly advanced lithium-ion batteries in modern electric cars can suffer from degradation over time. At some point, your battery will need to be replaced – and hopefully not during your morning commute. The best way to prepare for a dead battery is to monitor how much charge your battery can take and how long each charge lasts. As your battery weakens, you can have it tested to determine its overall health. When you know a dead battery is right around the corner, it’s critical to purchase a new one and have it ready for when the old one is ready to retire.
Tire Troubles
Some electric vehicles are actually heavier than their ICE counterparts, meaning their tires must support considerably more weight. Over time, the added pressure to their treads can wear down tires faster than usual. As a result, tire troubles are some of the most common issues EV owners face. Familiarize yourself with the process for changing a tire on your EV, and make sure everyone in your household knows how to handle it. Remember – if you find yourself with a tire blowout in severe weather conditions or in a dangerous location, it’s better not to risk changing the tire by yourself.
Brake Problems
Many electric car manufacturers install regenerative braking systems in their vehicles which effectively slow down typical wear and tear on brake pads and rotors. But even with this new technology, brakes are among the most likely reasons EV drivers require roadside assistance. If your brakes aren’t functioning properly, it’s incredibly dangerous to keep driving – so don’t! That’s where a trustworthy roadside assistance plan for your electric car comes in handy.
THE FUTURE OF ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE FOR ELECTRIC CARS
By 2035, the state of California plans to ban all internal combustion engines and make a complete switch to electric vehicles. As more states join together and enforce these rules, drivers will be compelled to leave their old ICE vehicles behind.
This means that soon, drivers across the country will be looking for the peace of mind that comes from a trusted roadside assistance plan for their new electric cars.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Learn the basics of how your EV functions so you can quickly identify your problem
- Carry charging leads and adaptors for emergency charges from nearby electrical outlets
- Have a spare tire available (either in the vehicle or at home so someone can bring it to you)
- Find a trusted roadside assistance plan provider for your electric vehicle
If you find yourself on the side of the road in your EV, you may not know where to turn – that’s why it’s critical to carry a reliable electric car roadside assistance plan from a reputable provider. At Alliance Direct Benefits, we offer roadside assistance plans for electric cars that cover all car emergencies starting at under $1 a day!