How to store an electric car

There always comes a time when you don't need to use your car. During these periods, electric vehicles must be stored properly. All vehicles, regardless of engine type, are designed to be driven, not stored.

Summary:Therefore, if the vehicle will not be used for a long period of time, vehicle owners should take precautions.

These tips will help you properly store your electric vehicle.

Keep your high voltage battery charged

According to Cars.com, the battery that powers a car should always be between 10% and 80% charged. Maintaining a charge above or below this range may damage the lithium-ion battery and reduce its capacity.

There are several ways to make sure your vehicle is within this range, and the method you choose may depend on the manufacturer's recommendations.

Some, like Tesla, recommend leaving the car plugged in. This allows the heating or cooling system to operate as needed. If you leave your vehicle plugged in, set a charge limit to prevent the battery from reaching 100%.

Other manufacturers, such as Nissan, recommend leaving it plugged in; According to Green Car Reports, Nissan vehicles are going into a deep sleep. If not connected to the network.

If the vehicle is stored without power, first make sure it is fully charged. Then carefully store the cables by wrapping them loosely and laying them out in a dry place as recommended by Driving Electric.

Disconnect or recharge the 12V battery.

Most electric vehicles are equipped with two batteries. The high-voltage battery above powers the car, while the 12-volt battery powers accessories throughout the car.

In some systems, the 12-volt battery is permanently discharged. To avoid damage, remove it from the vehicle or plug it into a charger that plugs into a regular 120 volt outlet.

To remove the battery, first disconnect the negative terminal (usually black), then the positive (usually red). Keep cables away from metal.

This will disable the unlock button on the key fob, so be careful not to accidentally lock the key inside.

Turn off power saving features

Some features will automatically turn on and consume battery power unless specifically disabled. Every car is different, but some examples include automatic map updates, preheating or cooling, and active battery recovery. 

Turn your tires

Like any other vehicle, electric vehicle tires flatten over time under the weight of the vehicle if not rotated. To avoid this problem, store tires on a lift for unloading. Also, drive the car every few weeks to fit the tires on different parts of the car.

Choose the right storage space

Choose a fenced area where you can park your car. The garage protects it from the weather and water damage is not a threat as leaks are minimal. A relatively constant temperature is also ideal. Also, if you choose to leave the battery plugged in or connected to a charger, the power supply will help protect the battery.

If you don't have a garage, you can take advantage of self storage options. If you can't store your car indoors, protect it with a waterproof cover.

If your garage doesn't have a household electric vehicle charger, consider installing one. Not only will this make storage easier when you need to plug into a charging port, but it will also make your daily commute easier once you get started. Use your car more often.

Protecting Your Investment: Essential Tips for Storing Your Electric Car

Electric cars have seen a surge in popularity in recent years. With their environmentally-friendly features, silent motors, and cutting-edge technology, it's no wonder that more and more people are turning to electric vehicles as an alternative to traditional gas-powered cars. However, as with any investment, electric cars require proper care and maintenance to ensure they remain in top condition. One essential aspect of caring for your electric car is deciding how to store it when not in use. Here are some essential tips for storing your electric car and protecting your investment.

Choose the Right Location

The first step in properly storing your electric car is to choose the right location. When choosing a storage location, consider factors such as climate control, security, and accessibility. Ideally, you should store your electric car in a climate-controlled garage or facility to protect it from extreme temperatures and humidity. Additionally, your storage location should be secure and easily accessible in case you need to check on your car or perform any maintenance.

Prepare Your Car for Storage

Before you store your electric car, it's essential to prepare it properly. One crucial aspect of preparing your car for storage is to ensure that its battery is fully charged. This step will help prevent the battery from discharging while in storage, which can lead to damage to the battery pack, reducing its overall lifespan. Additionally, it's a good idea to disconnect the battery or use a battery tender to maintain the battery's charge level during storage.

Take Care of the Tires

The next step in storing your electric car is to take care of its tires. Tires that are left stationary for an extended period can develop flat spots, which can potentially damage the tires and lead to costly repairs. To prevent this, consider lifting your car off the ground or using jack stands to take the weight off of the tires. Additionally, you can rotate the tires periodically to prevent flat spots from developing.

Protect the Exterior and Interior

To protect the exterior and interior of your electric car while it's in storage, it's essential to take a few simple steps. First, thoroughly clean and wax the car's exterior to protect the paint and prevent any damage. Then, cover the car with a high-quality car cover to protect it from dust, debris, and other potential hazards. Additionally, clean the interior and use a UV-blocking sunshade to protect the dashboard and other plastic components from sun damage.

Maintain Your Car's Maintenance Schedule

Finally, it's essential to maintain your electric car's maintenance schedule even when it's in storage. Regular maintenance is vital to keep your car in top condition and can help prevent issues from developing while it's not in use. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and perform any necessary tune-ups, oil changes, or other maintenance tasks before storing your car.

Key Takeaways

• Choose a climate-controlled, secure, and accessible location to store your electric car.
• Ensure the battery is fully charged and consider disconnecting or using a battery tender.
• Lift your car off the ground or use jack stands to take the weight off of the tires.
• Clean and wax the car's exterior, cover it with a high-quality car cover, and protect the interior with a UV-blocking sunshade.
• Follow your car's recommended maintenance schedule, even when it's in storage.

By following these essential tips for storing your electric car, you can protect your investment and ensure that your car remains in top condition. Remember, proper care and maintenance are essential to protecting both the value and performance of your electric vehicle. With a little effort and attention to detail, you can enjoy your electric car for years to come.

Crack the Code on Long-Lasting Battery Life: Maximizing Longevity Tips for Properly Storing Your Electric Car

Electric cars are without a doubt the future of the automobile industry. These vehicles have revolutionized the way people get around, providing eco-friendly and cost-efficient means of transportation. One of the biggest selling points of electric vehicles is their longevity, which largely depends on their battery life. However, keeping an electric car’s battery at its best can be challenging.

You see, electric cars are impacted by how they’re stored, particularly when left unused for extended periods of time. In fact, the way electric car owners care for their cars during periods of inactivity is a critical factor not only for the vehicle’s reliability but also to the environment. That said, here are the ways to maximize the battery life, reduce the chance of internal corrosion and promote the longevity of your electric car.

Regular maintenance is key

The key to making sure your electric vehicle is at its best is to inspect it regularly checking all the parts. This is particularly important when it’s being stored for extended periods of time. Preventing corrosion is the ultimate goal for long-term storage, which can be effectively ensured by regularly checking the battery’s cleanliness, fluid levels, and ensuring parts aren’t at risk of causing leaks or corrosion.

• Make sure the vehicle is 100% charged before storing.
• Inspect tires and maintain the recommended pressures

• Check coolant and change if necessary.

Storage location matters

The next important factor in promoting the longevity of your electric car is the storage location. Unlike conventional cars, electric vehicles should be stored in specific conditions.

• Keep your car inside a garage with enough ventilation to keep a moderate temperature.
• If storing for more than a month, reduce the vehicle’s recommended psi by about 10psi.
• Disconnect the 12-volt battery, which is commonly known as the low-voltage battery that provides power to the accessories in a car.
• Keep the car filled with an insulated storage blanket in tight to ensure the battery is protected from any temperature fluctuations.

Drive it occasionally

The key to keeping any car in top condition, electric or not, is to drive it occasionally to keep all parts active. This is especially true for the electric car’s battery pack since it deteriorates over time regardless of use.

• Maintain the recommended charge every time you hit the road and remember to occasionally drive the car for at least 10 miles to prevent damage to the battery
• When you take the car out of storage run all accessories (air conditioning, radio, and the windshield wipers) at least for 15 minutes to ensure the car’s battery is running at its optimum level

Get your car professionally serviced

Having your electric car professionally serviced regularly assures you that everything is functioning properly and there will be no surprises once you start driving again.

• Get the battery-pack’s coolant changed every three years, and make sure the technicians know the specific maintenance requirements for electric car batteries
• The EV technician should conduct a load test on the battery and ensure the on-board descriptions match that of the manufacturer’s specifications

The bottom line

Maximizing longevity is key to maintaining an electric car. Proper storage, regular maintenance, driving occasionally, and professional servicing are all critical factors in ensuring your car’s longevity. The steps outlined above aren’t just good for the environment, they’re also great for reducing the cost of operating an electric vehicle that will serve you well beyond the lifetime of any current gasoline-powered vehicle. By following each step, you’ll substantially increase your car’s reliability, value and longevity - maximizing your investment long into the future.

Preparing for Winter: A Step-by-Step Guide to Storing Your Electric Car

It's that time of year again. The weather is getting colder, the days are getting shorter, and it's time to start thinking about storing your electric car for the winter. Properly storing your electric car during the winter months can prevent damage, save you money, and ensure your car is in top condition when you're ready to hit the road again.

Step 1: Clean Your Car

The first step in preparing your electric car for winter storage is to give it a good cleaning inside and out. This will not only make it look better, but it will also help prevent rust and corrosion. Be sure to:

• Give the exterior a good wash and wax
• Clean the interior, including vacuuming the carpets and wiping down surfaces
• Remove any debris from the trunk and cargo areas

Step 2: Check Your Battery

The next step is to check your battery. Electric car batteries can be sensitive to cold weather, so you'll want to make sure yours is in top condition before storing it for the winter. Here's what you should do:

• Check the battery level and charge it if necessary
• If possible, store the car with the battery at around 50% charge
• If you're storing the car for more than a month, consider disconnecting the battery or using a battery maintainer to keep it charged

Step 3: Check Your Fluids

Before storing your electric car for the winter, you'll want to check your fluids to make sure everything is in top shape. Here's what you should do:

• Check your brake fluid and top it off if necessary
• Check your coolant level and add more if needed
• Check your windshield washer fluid and fill it up

Step 4: Store Your Car

The final step in preparing your electric car for winter storage is to find a safe and dry place to store it. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Choose a cool, dry place to store your car
• Consider storing the car on jack stands to relieve the weight on the tires
• Make sure the car is covered to protect it from dust and moisture

Advantages of Proper Winter Storage

Properly storing your electric car during the winter months can have a number of advantages. Here are just a few:

• Prevents rust and corrosion
• Keeps the battery in good condition
• Saves money on maintenance and repairs
• Ensures your car is in top condition when you're ready to use it again

Key Takeaways

Winter is here, and it's time to start thinking about storing your electric car. Follow these steps to prepare your car for winter storage:

• Clean your car inside and out
• Check your battery and make sure it's in top condition
• Check your fluids to make sure everything is in top shape
• Store your car in a safe and dry place

By properly storing your electric car during the winter months, you can prevent damage, save money, and ensure that your car is in top condition when you're ready to hit the road again.

From Batteries to Tires How to Store Your Electric Car for Optimal Performance

Electric cars have become increasingly popular due to their environmental benefits, low maintenance cost, and quiet operation. But, if you are an electric car owner planning to go on an extended vacation or storing it in the offseason, proper storage is essential for optimal performance. In this article, we will discuss how to store your electric car and ensure that it remains in mint condition.

1. Battery Care

• When storing an electric vehicle, ensure that the state of charge (SOC) of the battery is between 50-70%. Anything below or above this range can damage the battery life cycle.
• If the battery level is above 70%, run the car until the battery reaches the desired level of SOC for storage.
• Disconnect the battery if your car will be stored for more than a month between charges, and keep it in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving the battery connected to a trickle charger for an extended period as it can cause gassing, leading to battery damage.
• Charge your car battery every three months if kept in storage for an extended period to avoid the battery discharging completely.
• Check the battery coolant level and refill it if required before putting your electric vehicle into storage.

2. Tires Maintenance

• Ensure that your car's tires are fully inflated before storing, as underinflated tires can develop flat spots or lose their shape over time.
• If you plan to store your electric vehicle for an extended period, use jack stands or ramps to remove the weight of the car for proper tire maintenance.
• You can also rotate the tires if idle for extended periods to prevent one side from bearing the entire weight of the car.

3. Other Recommendations

• Clean the car thoroughly before storing it, including the interior and exterior, to avoid any dirt and debris causing damage to the paint or upholstery.
• Check the car's oil and fluid level before storing it.
• Remove any perishables items to avoid unpleasant odors or any infestation.
• Secure the car's parking brake if storing on a hill, otherwise use wheel chocks to prevent the car from rolling.
• Consider investing in a quality car cover to protect the car from dust, moisture, and other environmental hazards.

Key Takeaways

Storing your electric car correctly can save you from costly repairs and battery replacements. To ensure optimal performance, follow these simple guidelines:

• Maintain the battery's SOC between 50-70%, disconnect if necessary, and charge every 3 months.
• Ensure the tires are fully inflated, remove the weight of the car, and rotate if necessary.
• Clean the car thoroughly and remove any perishable items.
• Secure the parking brake and consider investing in a quality car cover.

Conclusion

Proper storage of your electric vehicle is essential to keep it in mint condition and ensure optimal performance. The battery and tire maintenance are crucial factors to consider when storing your electric car. By following the guidelines described in this article, you can save yourself from costly repairs and prolong the life of your electric vehicle.

Storing Your Electric Car for Extended Periods Tips and Tricks for Success

Electric cars are the future of driving. With their eco-friendliness, low maintenance, and efficient performance, they have become a popular choice for car owners around the globe. However, storing your electric car for extended periods can be a bit of a challenge. Without proper preparation, this can lead to a decrease in battery life, decreased range and a host of other issues. In this blog post, we will share some tips and tricks to help you successfully store your electric car for extended periods of time.

1. Keep Your Battery Charged

One of the most important things you can do to ensure your electric car remains in good condition while in storage is to keep the battery charged. If the car battery is not charged, it can severely damage the battery life. Charging your battery regularly also helps to prevent the battery from losing its charge.

2. Store Your Car in a Cool and Dry Place

Extreme temperatures can do significant damage to your electric car battery. When temperatures rise, batteries can become overcharged, and when they fall, the batteries can lose their charge. It is crucial to store your electric car in a cool and dry place to ensure the battery remains in good condition.

3. Disconnect the Battery

Another essential tip to follow is to disconnect the battery when storing your electric car for an extended period. By doing this, you prevent the battery from draining while your vehicle is in storage. This process will also help to ensure the battery retains its charge and is in good condition when you are ready to use it again.

4. Use a Trickle Charger

A trickle charger is an essential item to have when storing your electric car for extended periods. It helps to maintain the charge on the car battery and prevent it from becoming overcharged or undercharged. This kind of charger provides a slow and steady stream of power to the battery.

5. Keep Your Tires Inflated

Inflating your tires is crucial when storing your electric car. Flat spots can develop on the tires when the car is stationary for an extended time and can cause significant damage to your tires' overall health. To keep the tires healthy and functional, make sure to inflate them to the recommended level before storing your car.

The Takeaway

Storing your electric car for extended periods of time can be challenging, but with these tips and tricks, you can help ensure your car remains in excellent condition. Remember to keep the battery charged, store your car in a cool and dry place, disconnect the battery, use a trickle charger, and keep your tires inflated. These simple steps will help you protect your electric car and keep it running for many years to come. Embrace these tips and tricks to ensure your investment in an electric car stays safe, maintained, and functional.

The Dos and Don'ts of Electric Car Storage

Ah, electric cars. They're the future of driving, right? With their zero-emission motors and whisper-quiet rides, it's no wonder more and more people are considering making the switch from gas-guzzling vehicles to electric cars.

But before you take the plunge and invest in an electric car of your own, there are a few things you need to know about storing your new eco-friendly ride. In this article, we'll go over the dos and don'ts of electric car storage, so you can keep your EV in tip-top shape for years to come.

The Dos

• Do keep your battery charged. Like any other battery, the one in your electric car needs to stay charged to work properly. Make sure you plug your car in overnight or between drives to keep it charged up and ready to go.
• Do store your car in a cool, dry location. Extreme heat and cold can have a negative effect on your battery's lifespan. If you can, store your electric car in a garage or covered area that's shielded from the elements.
• Do use a trickle charger. If you plan on storing your electric car for an extended period of time, it's a good idea to invest in a trickle charger. This will keep your battery charged without overcharging it.
• Do keep an eye on your tire pressure. Just like any other vehicle, your electric car's tires need to be properly inflated to operate efficiently.

The Don'ts

• Don't let your battery run low. If you're going to be storing your electric car for an extended period of time, make sure the battery is at least 50% charged. Letting the battery run all the way down can damage it over time.
• Don't park your car with the parking brake on. If you park your electric car for an extended period of time with the parking brake engaged, it can cause the brake pads to wear down and potentially damage the brake system.
• Don't leave your car plugged in all the time. While it's important to keep your battery charged, leaving it plugged in all the time can overcharge it and reduce its lifespan.
• Don't store your car in direct sunlight. Direct sunlight and extreme heat can damage your car's battery and other components over time.

Key Takeaways

• Keep your battery charged and store your car in a cool, dry location.
• Invest in a trickle charger for extended periods of storage.
• Check your tire pressure regularly.
• Don't let your battery run low or leave your car plugged in all the time.
• Avoid parking your car with the parking brake on or in direct sunlight.

By following these dos and don'ts of electric car storage, you can help extend the lifespan of your battery and other important components. While electric cars might be different from their gas-powered counterparts, they're not that much harder to take care of.

So go ahead and make the switch to electric - just make sure you're taking care of your new ride in the process.

Safely Storing Your Electric Car A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’ve made the smart choice to go electric and purchased yourself an electric car. Congratulations, you are now officially part of the green revolution! However, there are a few things you need to take into consideration when it comes to storing your electric car if you are not going to use it for an extended period of time. In this comprehensive guide, we are going to cover everything you need to know to safely store your electric car and keep it in pristine condition.

Why is it important to store your electric car correctly?

First things first, you may be wondering why it’s even important to store your electric car correctly. Well, electric car batteries are delicate and need to be stored correctly to ensure that they do not suffer any damage while the vehicle is not in use. Failing to do so can cause battery degradation, which can be quite expensive when it’s time for a replacement.

What do you need to do before storing your electric car?

Before storing your electric car, there are a few things you need to do:

• Charge your electric car battery to around 50-60% full and then disconnect it from the charger. This is important as leaving your battery fully charged for an extended period of time can cause permanent damage.
• Perform a thorough cleaning of your electric car, both on the outside and inside, to ensure that there is no dust or debris that can cause damage to your vehicle while it is in storage.
• Fill up the tires with air to their recommended pressure to prevent flat spots from forming while your electric car is in storage.
• Change the oil and other fluids if they are due for a change as it’s better to do it before storing your electric car.

Where should you store your electric car?

When it comes to storing your electric car, you want to choose a location that is dry and cool. Ideally, a garage is the perfect place to store your electric car as it protects it from the elements like rain, wind, and sun. However, if you do not have access to a garage, you can consider renting a storage unit for your electric car.

How should you store your electric car battery?

When it comes to storing your electric car battery, you want to ensure that it’s stored in a cool and dry place. Ideally, you want to store your battery in an area where the temperature is between 0 and 20 degrees Celsius. Before storing your electric car battery, make sure that it’s disconnected from the car and that it has at least a 30% charge to prevent complete discharge.

Key Takeaways

• Storing your electric car correctly is important to prevent battery degradation and other damages.
• Before storing your electric car, make sure that the battery is around 50-60% full, the vehicle is clean, and the tires are filled to their recommended pressure.
• Choose a cool and dry location like a garage or storage unit to store your electric car.
• Store your electric car battery in an area where the temperature is between 0 and 20 degrees Celsius.

By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can safely store your electric car and keep it in pristine condition. Remember, proper care and maintenance of your electric car will not only keep it running smoothly but also extend its lifespan. So, do not forget to take these necessary steps before storing your electric car for an extended period of time.