Despite the generalized crisis and in particular the supply problems in the main vehicle producers, sales this year have slowed down. Even so, it is expected to reach a fleet of 250,000 electric vehicles next year and the installation of 100,000 charging points.
To the doubts about its autonomy and with an evident lack of recharging infrastructure in Spain, the potential buyers of this type of vehicle, accustomed to proven gasoline and diesel engines, also question the reliability of this type of new mechanics. . Their main doubts refer to whether the workshops are prepared for the revision and repair of these vehicles, if they break down more than gasoline or diesel cars, if they require special maintenance or which breakdown may be the most expensive.
Víctor Pardo, Market Manager and Taller de Norauto projects, resolves the main doubts that many drivers may have about the revision and repair of this type of electric vehicle:
1-Do electric cars need to carry out more revisions?
No, the same as a thermal vehicle, although its frequency will depend on the brand. Of course, different items are checked depending on the type of vehicle. Ideally, carry out an in-depth review every year for greater safety and check certain elements such as the battery and those that wear out the most, such as tires, brakes… before long journeys.
2-Do they break down more than diesel or gasoline cars?
In reality, there is no reason for them to suffer more breakdowns than a gasoline or diesel car, quite the opposite. One could think of the greater suffering of the tires as they support the greater weight and torque of these vehicles, but there are several studies that show that this is not the case.
In fact, pure electric cars or the electric part of hybrids suffer fewer breakdowns when compared to a combustion engine.
3-What breakdowns are the most frequent in this type of vehicle?
Among the most common specific failures in electric vehicles we find the battery and the charging connectors.
Of course, we must bear in mind that, like gasoline or diesel vehicles, they usually require changes to the lights, replacement of brakes and tires, change of the cabin filter…
4-Are the workshops prepared for the revision and maintenance of hybrid and electric vehicles?
Norauto professionals have received the necessary training to perform the maintenance of hybrid and electric vehicles. Likewise, our workshops have been adapted and have the necessary technology. Thus, for example, our mechanics have insulating gloves, signaling elements, 1000-volt insulated hand tools…
5-What differences are there in regard to the revision regarding gasoline or diesel vehicles?
We have established 9 specific controls. On the one hand, we check the coolant of the electric motor and the battery. On the other, we check the condition of the charging cable, as well as the cables and sheaths of the high-voltage cables. We also look at the battery pack (if accessible), the state of the charging connector and perform an electronic diagnosis of the battery pack. Finally, we carry out three technical checks to find out the state of health of the high-voltage battery.
6- Can high and low temperatures affect electric vehicles? How?
Of course. In the same way that extreme temperatures negatively affect any type of battery. But there is no need to worry because these vehicles are tested in both conditions to improve these aspects.
7-Does it cost more to go through the workshop with an electric vehicle?
The truth is that no. The workshops have adjusted prices a lot. In addition, we must bear in mind that in general they tend to spend less time in the workshop as they have fewer breakdowns.
8-What breakdown can be the most expensive in this type of vehicle?
The change of battery, although with the passage of time and the popularization of prices should decrease.
9-Are the workshops also prepared for the pre ITV review of hybrid and electric vehicles?
First of all, it must be taken into account that electric vehicles must indeed pass the Technical Vehicle Inspection just like gasoline or diesel cars. To date, they are governed by the same inspection regulations and there are no specific control points for them. Of course, the electric ones do not undergo the emissions test, although the hybrids will have to do the idle test.
Taking all this into account, yes, workshops are generally prepared to carry out a pre-ITV vehicle review.