Make A1 your first port of call for your next MOT. Our experienced team of inspectors and technicians offer affordable and reliable vehicle testing on cars and light commercial vehicles.
Read more...Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
EV & Hybrid Vehicle Servicing, Repairs & MOTs
The use of electric and hybrid vehicles is increasing, and so is the need for repair and maintenance on fully electric cars from makers such as BMW, Audi and Tesla. It’s a common misconception that only the main dealer you bought your hybrid or electric vehicle from can handle its servicing, repairs or MOT, but that’s not true. Unlike some garages that haven’t adapted, we recognise that EVs and hybrids (including conventional and plug-in hybrids) are becoming more common.
Certified Hybrid Technicians
Repairing PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles) is very different from repairing regular vehicles due to the added element of high-voltage electricity. Voltages can be as high as 700 volts, and accidental contact with parts at these voltages can be fatal. Therefore, specialist tools and equipment are required to work safely, together with manufacturer training and skilled staff.
At A1, we have certified hybrid technicians, and our team has undergone extensive training to handle hybrids and electric vehicles. Our workshop has the necessary tools to repair and maintain these cars efficiently. Many people think hybrid cars can only be repaired at a main dealer. This is wrong: independent specialists like us who have the relevant certification can work on your vehicle – usually at a fraction of the cost of the main dealer.
Whether you own a high-end Tesla or a used Nissan Leaf, our skilled specialists are prepared to service your EV. It’s important to remember that hybrid cars still have traditional combustion engines that need regular maintenance. Don’t be fooled into thinking that hybrid means main dealer only; we can carry out any work on your planet-friendly vehicle. Call or contact us to discuss your issue, and you’ll receive a free, no-obligation quote.
Common EV repairs include tyre repairs, brake fluid service, coolant service, brake service, battery care, windscreen wipers, pollen filters and an MOT test after 3 years.
Tyre repairs for Hybrid / EVs
Regrettably, owning an Electric Vehicle won’t result in any savings on your tyres. You’ll still need to perform regular checks to ensure proper tyre pressure, tread condition, and the absence of unwelcome lumps, tears, or punctures. See our tyres page for the brands we supply and fit.
Brake fluid servicing
You may be thinking that you’re sure Electric Vehicles use regenerative braking, and while that is true, they still have brake pads and discs. Regenerative braking is used mostly; however, the traditional friction brakes take over towards the end of a braking period. In emergency braking situations, only the friction brakes will be used, and brake fluid is required to engage the brakes.
A brake fluid service ensures that your brake fluid is clean and uncontaminated. Contaminated brake fluid will drastically reduce braking efficiency, and most manufacturers recommend having this service done every 2 years or 24,000 miles.
This will improve your braking distance and performance; at worst, leaving your brake fluid unchecked will cause brake failure. We can’t think of anything scarier than pressing the brake pedal and nothing happening.
Coolant Service
Given the high operating temperatures your battery reaches, it's vital to have sufficient coolant to prevent overheating. Different manufacturers recommend varying coolant system flush intervals, which you can find in your manual. If you're unsure, feel free to contact us for guidance.
Brake Service
This is different from a Brake Fluid Service. While regenerative braking helps slow down your electric vehicle and recharge the battery, your brake pads and discs will still experience wear over time. Although the wear won’t be as rapid as in non-electric cars, they still require periodic inspection – ask us about a free brake check.
Battery Care
The car's battery is its most expensive and crucial component, demanding utmost care. While EV batteries use a different technology from those in phones or laptops, they may experience issues like battery degradation. Regular servicing allows our experts to ensure the battery remains in optimal condition.
Miscellaneous including Wipers, Pollen Filters
Routine wear and tear items like windscreen wipers, pollen filters, and air-con re-gassing will inevitably require replacement. We can assist with these quick and easy fixes. For any advice, don't hesitate to contact us!
MOT Tests for Electric Vehicles and Hybrid Vehicles
All vehicles on UK roads, including electric vehicles, need an annual MOT test. For brand-new cars, the MOT test starts after the 3rd anniversary of the registration date. The good news is that emissions testing is not required for EVs, and the chances of repairs are minimal due to their more straightforward construction with fewer parts. Find out more about MOTs at A1.
EVs We Have Worked On
Some EVs we have previously worked on include Jaguar, Tesla, Mini, Peugeot, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volvo, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, Honda, Porsche, Polestar, BMW, Volkswagen, SEAT (inc Cupra) and Vauxhall.
