The rise of electric vehicles is being celebrated around the world as the future of transportation, and isn’t it? Being able to travel as usual, but without emitting harmful waste into the atmosphere. But the more popular they become, the more complications they encounter, and that’s why many people still haven’t dared to make the leap to electric vehicles. Even less so now that various mechanics have compiled a list of the most difficult repairs for these vehicles… Panic-inducing! Why? Because fixing just one battery in these Electric Vehicles (EVs) can cost almost as much as buying a new car. See, it’s scary! We’ll tell you everything these mechanics told us so you can keep it in mind for future purchases.
What is the main problem with electric vehicles?
While we know the future is plug-in, the main problem these types of vehicles face compared to conventional combustion vehicles is the battery. When a gasoline-powered vehicle’s battery fails, it is replaced and in a couple of minutes the car is roaring like a new one again, but… electric vehicles aren’t so lucky. In EVs, a single battery failure will require replacing the entire module, making the repair a nightmare, both for the user (who will have a significant cost) and for the mechanic, who will need specific EV training to be able to handle it. Other times, the batteries can’t even be repaired; new ones must be purchased, and these aren’t exactly cheap…more than $15,000!
Some garages attempt to repair damaged modules rather than replace them entirely, but this isn’t always possible. The lack of spare parts, manufacturer restrictions, and high costs mean many owners prefer to sell their cars rather than repair them. And that’s not even counting labour and other additional costs!
Yes, believe it or not, high-voltage batteries can be extremely dangerous and expensive, and without the proper equipment, a wrong move can result in a fire or even a lethal shock.
On top of that, manufacturers have armoured their cars with proprietary software, which means only authorized dealers can perform certain repairs. For independent mechanics, this means their jobs are at risk, and for EV owners, repair costs skyrocket with no alternative options.
Even the smallest repairs, such as a minor electronics problem, can cost a fortune if the manufacturer won’t replace just the damaged part and requires replacing the entire system! So, if you’ve purchased an EV, you’d better save up if your vehicle isn’t under warranty.
Can this situation be improved?
Although companies are making things increasingly difficult, some continue to fight for a change that is viable for all sectors. Some countries are enacting and promoting laws requiring manufacturers to facilitate repairs to car systems. Renault in Europe, for example, is already working with batteries that are much easier to repair and replace, and they don’t necessarily require replacing the entire module.
So, it’s clearly up to the industry, as they are the ones who need to come up with alternatives so that the future of electric cars is sustainable and doesn’t cause a huge drain on their customers’ wallets. Otherwise, they would become disposable products that only benefit manufacturers and trap consumers in poorly designed ways.
For now, technology is advancing rapidly, and buying electric cars offers several advantages, such as government discounts and the hope of an emission-free future. But… like everything, there are times, and right now we need to be aware that repair costs can be much more expensive than the vehicle itself.
For now, many, both garages and individual mechanics, are up in arms demanding access to replacement tools. In the meantime… let’s pray that our EV doesn’t fail!
