Summary
- Storing electric vehicles for an extended period can cause issues
- Make sure to maintain the battery charge at around 50 percent
- Disable background processes to preserve battery life
- Move or take the weight off the tires to prevent flat spots
- Store the EV in a protected location, such as an enclosed garage
Article
Storing an electric vehicle for an extended period can lead to issues, as cars are designed to be used regularly. However, EVs have fewer mechanical components that can falter during storage. The main concern when storing an EV is maintaining and not damaging the high-voltage battery. To properly store an EV, it is essential to ensure the battery is charged correctly. Most manufacturers recommend maintaining a charge of around 50 percent to prevent any damage to the battery. Some recommend leaving the vehicle on the charger, while others suggest disconnecting the 12V battery or using a trickle charger. Disabling background processes can also help preserve battery life.
Another important aspect of storing an electric vehicle is taking care of the tires. Stationary vehicles risk developing flat spots on the tires, especially EVs, which are heavier than combustion cars. Moving the car periodically can help prevent flat spots, but if that is not feasible, leaving the vehicle on lifts or inflating the tires to the maximum PSI recommended in the owner’s manual can alleviate some of the weight on the tires. Storing an EV in a protected location is also crucial. An enclosed garage or parking garage can protect the vehicle from extreme weather conditions and potential damage. If parking the EV in the open is the only option, consider using a weatherproof car cover for added protection.
Proper storage practices can help maintain an electric vehicle’s performance and prolong its battery life. It is essential to ensure the battery is charged correctly, as most manufacturers recommend keeping it at around 50 percent capacity. Disabling background processes, such as Tesla’s Sentry Mode, can prevent unnecessary battery drain. Taking care of the tires by moving the car periodically or using lifts can prevent flat spots from developing. Storing the EV in a protected location, such as an enclosed garage or parking garage, is ideal to shield it from harsh weather conditions and potential damage.
In conclusion, storing an electric vehicle for an extended period requires proper maintenance and care to prevent any issues. Maintaining the battery at around 50 percent capacity, disabling background processes, and taking care of the tires are essential steps to ensure the EV remains in good condition. Storing the vehicle in a protected location, such as an enclosed garage, can shield it from extreme weather conditions and potential damage. Following these guidelines can help preserve an electric vehicle’s performance and battery life during storage.
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