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Caring For Your Electric Vehicle: The Basics

Electric cars are a boon to the environment, and they make life a lot simpler and more cost-effective for their owners. Unlike gas-powered or even hybrid vehicles, their maintenance needs are fewer. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA is proud to represent an automaker on the forefront of electric cars. As such, here are some basics to know about caring for your electric vehicle.

The first thing to understand is that electric cars have fewer parts versus an internal combustion engine. This means you can say goodbye to oil changes, spark plug replacements, and filter swap-outs. Think of how much time (and money) that will free up. It still requires certain fluids like coolant, brake fluid and windshield wiper fluid though, so stay on top of those.

As with any kind of vehicle, regular tire maintenance is key. The service experts at Peruzzi Toyota can keep your tires in peak shape, with regular rotations, balance and alignment procedures, and tire pressure monitoring. This will help maximize the performance of your electric car.

The other things that help your electric vehicle perform at peak efficiency is the regenerative braking system. Essentially, as the car moves, it generates electricity that goes straight to the battery. It’s estimated that the brakes on an electric vehicle can go for 100,000 miles before they need replacing. That’s more big savings!

Of course, the heart of the electric car is the battery. Make sure your vehicle is properly plugged in and that it maintains a charge of 20% to 80%. Invest in a 240-volt home charger and your car will always be ready to go. Outside weather conditions can impact the charge. Try to keep your car out of the hot sun whenever possible, or during severe winter cold; both extremes will reduce the juice.

Some folks worry that replacing the electric battery is costly. The good news is that Toyota’s battery warranty guarantees it for ten years or 620,000 miles; the rest of the guarantee stipulates that after ten years, the battery will retain 90% of its original life.

As electric vehicle technology continues to rapidly evolve, count on Toyota to lead the way in affordable, practical and stylish models. Peruzzi Toyota is proud to be part of this forward-thinking company.

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