5 Tips for Parking Your Electric Vehicle Long Term

Understanding the nuances of owning an electric vehicle (EV) can be challenging when it comes to long-term parking. Unlike their gasoline-powered counterparts, EVs come with requirements for storage and upkeep.

If you're storing your car for a while, it's important to know how to park your EV correctly. This guide gives five tips to keep your electric vehicle in good shape while it's parked for a long time.

Understanding the Importance of Proper Electric Vehicle Parking

Electric cars are growing in popularity as technology evolves and we move away from gas-fueled vehicles. However, many owners are still learning the ropes of EV ownership. One significant area that often raises questions is storing an EV for an extended period. It's more complex than parking your car and forgetting about it.

Several considerations must be made, including maintaining battery health, choosing the right parking location, and protecting the vehicle from harsh weather conditions. These factors can significantly influence the longevity and performance of your EV.

Tip #1: Choose the Right Location

Importance of Location

Like any other vehicle, an electric car needs protection from weather elements. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can harm the battery and other components of the car. Therefore, protecting your EV from the elements is advisable whenever possible.

The location where you park your EV for long-term storage plays a crucial role in its overall well-being. It's recommended to store your EV in a shady spot out of direct sunlight, especially if you live in a warm climate. Constant exposure to high temperatures can lead to battery degradation over time, which can shorten the life of your EV's battery and affect its performance.

Cold weather can make EV batteries work less well. When it's cold, the battery's chemical reactions slow down, making it less efficient. This means the battery won't last as long and the car won't be able to drive as far on one charge as it would in warmer weather.

Remember that the battery may not work as well in cold weather, but it should go back to normal as it gets warmer. Some electric cars have systems to control the battery temperature and reduce these effects.

At all our locations, Preflight provides electric charging stations situated in covered areas. These stations meet your parking needs year-round and offer a convenient and eco-friendly solution for charging your vehicle.

Protecting Your EV from Harmful Weather Conditions

If your EV is parked outside, using a car cover can provide additional protection from the sun's damaging UV rays. Suppose you're expecting heavy snowfall or rain, park in a covered spot to prevent damage to the car's exterior.

Lastly, if you live in a frigid climate, consider investing in a battery warmer to maintain optimal temperatures during winter.

Suitable Locations for Long-Term EV Parking

When storing your electric vehicle for the long term, it's important to choose the right location. Consider things like the availability of charging stations and the local climate. Ideally, store your EV indoors in a garage to protect it from extreme weather.

If that's not an option, a covered carport or a shady spot can also work. The aim is to keep the vehicle cool and protected from the elements. It's also beneficial if the location has access to a charging station to maintain the battery's health during storage.

Tip #2: Maintain Proper Tire Care

While protecting your EV from the elements is essential, remember to pay attention to your tires. Proper tire care during long-term parking can prevent flat spots and ensure your vehicle's readiness when you're back on the road.

Remember to inflate your tires to the recommended pressure provided by the manufacturer before parking. Properly inflated tires maintain their shape and reduce the risk of developing flat spots over time.

Periodically Rotate Tires: If your EV is parked for an extended period, consider rotating the tires every few months. This helps distribute the weight evenly, minimizing the chance of flat spots forming.

Use Tire Supports: If you're concerned about flat spots, invest in tire supports or "tire cradles" to lift the tires slightly off the ground. This can help relieve pressure and maintain tire integrity.

 

Tip #3: Use a Standard Charging Station

Explanation of Different Charging Levels

There are different charging stations for EVs, ranging from Level 1 to Level 3.

• Level 1 chargers are standard outlets that provide slow but steady charging.
• Level 2 chargers are specialized equipment providing faster charging speeds.
• Level 3 chargers, also known as DC Fast Chargers, offer the quickest charging speeds but aren't suitable for everyday use due to their potential to degrade the battery over time.

 Benefits of Using Standard Charging Stations for Long-Term Parking

For long-term parking, it's best to use a Level 1 or Level 2 charger. Although these chargers are slower than a Level 3 charger, they are less likely to harm the battery over time. If you're storing your EV for more than three months, it's recommended to keep it connected to a constant AC charge with at max a charge level between 40% and 50%.

Regularly monitor the charge level and replenish it if it falls below 20%. This ensures that the battery remains healthy and extends its lifespan.

Tip #4: Monitor Battery Health

Importance of Monitoring Battery Health

Monitoring the health of your EV's battery is critical, especially during long-term parking. The state of charge, temperature, and discharge rate impact the battery's longevity. Overcharging or deep discharging can lead to battery damage.

Maintaining Battery Health During Long-Term Parking

As mentioned, keeping the battery charged between 20% and 80% is best. A constant trickle charge is beneficial if you're storing the vehicle for an extended period. Ensure the car isn't exposed to extremely high temperatures, as it could lead to battery degradation.

You can also turn off unnecessary features in your EV to prevent energy drain. For example, some electric cars have a feature that sets the car's interior temperature, which can be turned off if the vehicle isn't in use.

In storage mode, the battery's charge levels are regulated to prevent overcharging or deep discharging, which can harm the battery. This helps keep the battery in an optimal state to minimize decay and maximize performance when you're ready to use it again.

Consider your EV's owner's manual for specific guidance on using storage mode and other battery maintenance tips. Taking proper care of your EV's battery during long-term parking can ensure a smooth and reliable driving experience once you're back on the road.

Tip #5: Regularly Check on Your Vehicle

Importance of Regularly Checking Your EV

Even if your EV is parked long, regular checks are necessary. Remember this: Identifying potential issues early helps prevent them from becoming major problems. Regular checks include:

• Inspect the battery charge level.
• Checking tire pressure.
• Looking for signs of rodent damage.

Recap of Essential Tips for Long-Term Parking of Your Electric Vehicle

It's important to store your electric vehicle properly if you won't be using it for a while. This will help keep it running well and ensure it lasts a long time. Follow these five essential tips to keep your EV in optimal condition during long-term parking:

1. Choose a suitable location that provides shade and protection from extreme temperatures.
2. Maintain proper tire care to maintain vehicle readiness.
3. Use a standard charging station to monitor the battery charge level regularly.
4. Maintain battery health by avoiding overcharging or deep discharging.
5. Regularly check on your vehicle, inspecting the battery charge level, tire pressure, and overall condition.

By following these tips it helps make sure your EV runs well and the battery lasts longer. Consider parking with PreFlight Airport Parking for your next travel adventure. Happy travels!