How to Prepare Your Shop for EV Brake Repairs

As a technician, staying up to date with the latest trends and technologies is crucial for the success of both you and your shop. This is especially important when servicing electric vehicles (EVs). With the rise in EVs, unique challenges also emerge. Identifying the differences between traditional ICE vehicles and EVs, while learning how to prepare to service them, is key to staying competitive in today’s industry.

Maintenance Considerations

Once you and your team have identified these key differences, specifically in their braking systems, you’ll have a better understanding of the maintenance considerations needed to ensure you’re prepared to get to work.

Regenerative braking systems, for example, are present in essentially all electric vehicles. Due to the complexity of EV braking systems, it’s crucial to monitor brake fluid and watch for potential issues like corrosion in the system’s components. Following the recommended maintenance intervals and conducting specialized inspections will help to ensure the system remains in top condition. As a technician, it is important to understand how these braking systems interact with the vehicle so you can recalibrate, check system software, and safely disengage it during service to prevent any complications from arising. Staying educated is key to developing your skills and furthering your shop’s success.

Safety

As a technician, you’re well aware of the importance of safety while servicing your customer’s vehicles. EVs come with several system-specific hazards, which differ from those of traditional ICE vehicles. They are equipped with high-voltage systems with large battery packs, and improper handling can lead to serious risks, such as electric shock or battery fires. It’s vital that all technicians are well-versed in how to fully power down these systems before getting to work. Additionally, make sure to use insulated tools, gloves, and safety gear while working near these components. Proper safety training and implementing relevant safety protocols mean both you and your team will stay safe while servicing the vehicle.

Service Equipment

Once you and your team are ready to get to work, make sure the shop is ready as well. EVs are much heavier than gasoline-powered vehicles due to their batteries. Your shop’s lifts may need to be upgraded to handle these vehicles and perform brake jobs both safely and effectively. Lifts designed for EVs have a larger base to allow access to areas that are difficult to reach, evenly distribute the vehicle’s weight, and ensure the vehicle is protected from any potential damage.

As mentioned above, it’s highly recommended to use properly insulated tools and gloves when working on EVs for both the safety of you and the vehicle. Make sure your shop is well stocked with all the required equipment and gear to minimize the risk of injury or damage to the vehicles’ systems.

And while this may go without saying, don’t forget to install a charging station! You never know when a vehicle may show up with a low battery charge. Having the ability to provide enough charge to get the vehicle back out on the road is important to keep things running smoothly at the shop.

Inventory

Finally, make sure your shop is stocked with the right parts. You will need brake pads, rotors, and other components that are compatible with EVs. Another important consideration is the friction level of the replacement pads on EVs with brake blending systems.  Brake blending is calibrated for the OE pad friction, so choosing pads with similar hot and cold friction coefficients will ensure smoother braking performance.

At the end of the day, getting you and your shop prepared for the increase in EVs is all about staying informed, safe, and well-equipped. Being proactive and staying informed on the trends and technologies related to electric vehicles not only keeps you in line with industry changes but ensures the ongoing success of you and your shop.