Electric Car Batteries: Impossible to Repair?

A Reuters study identified problems in repairing electric vehicle batteries.

By interviewing mechanics and insurance companies, Reuters revealed the difficulty of repairing batteries for electric cars. Indeed, some automakers do not share their battery technologies with mechanics. As a result, they cannot properly diagnose or repair an electric vehicle.

Some interviewees even stated that they have to dispose of the vehicle if it has a scratch. This goes against the goal of promoting the reduced environmental impact of electric cars compared to internal combustion engine vehicles.

Reuters highlights brands such as Tesla, Nissan, Hyundai, BMW, and Renault, among others, for their lack of transparency regarding mechanics and insurers.

Repairing an electric car, is it difficult?

According to Reuters, repairing an electric car is often challenging, especially when it comes to battery issues. They state that estimating or repairing the battery, even if it is only slightly damaged, is impossible. This forces insurance companies to discard vehicles with only a few miles on the odometer. Additionally, it can be costly for both insurers and individuals wanting to buy an electric vehicle.

Moreover, batteries sometimes cost several thousand euros and can account for up to 50% of the vehicle’s total price. This is evident during garage repairs: procedures are different between electric and internal combustion engine vehicles.

Tesla is notably criticized because its batteries are located at the bottom of the cars, under the cabin and seats. Therefore, when repairing the battery, it is necessary to disassemble everything to access the battery cells.

To curb the rising costs of electric car insurance, Reuters recommends that automakers share their vehicle data with mechanics and insurance companies so they can perform diagnostics.

Otherwise, the entire industry may suffer.

See also: 5 tips to improve your electric car’s range