What to Check in an EV: Essential Parts and Systems to Inspect

When you own an electric vehicle, a car powered by one or more electric motors using energy stored in rechargeable batteries instead of gasoline. Also known as EV, it changes how you think about car care—no oil changes, fewer moving parts, but new systems that need attention. Unlike gas cars, an EV’s heart isn’t a combustion engine. It’s the battery pack, the large lithium-ion unit that stores and delivers power to the motor, and that’s where most of your focus should start.

What to check in an EV? First, look at the battery health, how much capacity the battery retains compared to when it was new. Most EVs show this as a percentage in the dashboard. If it drops below 80% before 8 years, you might be looking at a costly replacement. Don’t ignore charging habits—constantly charging to 100% or letting the battery drop to 0% wears it out faster. Keep it between 20% and 80% for daily use. Next, check the charging system, the hardware that connects your car to public or home chargers. Look for frayed cables, loose connectors, or error messages during charging. A faulty charger port or onboard charger can leave you stranded.

Don’t forget the regenerative braking, the system that slows the car by converting motion back into electricity to recharge the battery. It’s not just about efficiency—it reduces wear on brake pads. If your brakes feel spongy or you notice more frequent pad replacements, the regen system might not be working right. Also, inspect the cooling system, the liquid loop that keeps the battery and motor at safe temperatures. Leaks or low fluid levels here can cause overheating and permanent damage. And while EVs don’t need spark plugs or timing belts, they still have tires, suspension, lights, and wipers—check those like you would on any car.

What to check in an EV isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns. It’s about protecting your biggest investment. A well-maintained EV lasts longer, holds value better, and costs less to run. The posts below give you real-world checklists, common issues owners face, and how to spot trouble before it turns into a repair bill. Whether you’re new to EVs or have been driving one for years, you’ll find something useful here.