Fleets warned to maintain 12-volt battery to avoid EV breakdowns

Breakdown provider Start Rescue is advising EV fleet operators to be pay attention to their 12-volt battery, as a faulty or flat 12-volt battery is the leading reason for an EV breakdown.

The company says that many electric car drivers remain unaware their EV has a crucial 12-volt battery that is essential to running their car.

Start Rescue’s research shows 23.7% of EV call-outs are due to the car not starting with the key, which is less than the 29.7% figure for petrol and diesel cars for the same issue.

“EVs are very reliable but, like all cars, it has a 12-volt battery that needs to be looked after,” says Lee Puffett, Managing Director of Start Rescue. “Overall, EVs are less likely to require a breakdown call-out than ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicles, but EVs need to be driven to avoid the 12-volt battery going flat over time.”

Alongside the large high voltage battery that powers an EV’s motor, the 12-volt system is vital for door locks, ignition, air conditioning, safety equipment, and running crucial controls for the electric drivetrain.

The 12-volt battery in an EV is simple to maintain and Start Rescue advises drivers to use their EV regularly as the best way to look after both of its batteries – especially the 12-volt battery for all of the important systems that make it work.

Lee Puffett adds: “Charging up the car regularly will top up the 12-volt battery as it charges differently to an ICE car. Pre-conditioning the car’s cabin temperature while it’s on charge is a big help, and you can also use a ‘trickle’ charger if you know the car will be parked up for longer periods, such as when you go on holiday.”

Because the 12-volt battery is so important for EVs to function, Start Rescue advises any EV driver to read the vehicle’s manual to learn how to maintain the 12-volt battery’s charge. You can also ask a dealer for advice.

Lee Puffett sums up: “There are so many electric vehicles with differing operating systems that it’s vital you learn how to maintain your EV’s 12-volt battery to avoid a breakdown.”