5 common EV battery mistakes to avoid

Electric vehicles are known for their efficiency and performance, but new owners often face a steep learning curve when it comes to battery care. A 2024 survey by the Electric Vehicle Battery Forum found that 73% of new EV owners make at least one significant mistake in their first year, which can shorten battery life. Improper care can lead to up to a 40% reduction in battery lifespan, with replacement costs potentially exceeding $20,000, according to EV charging infrastructure provider CITA EV.

Below are five of the most damaging habits — and what experts recommend instead:

1. Frequent fast charging

Fast charging is convenient, especially on long trips, but overusing it can degrade the battery by up to 15% over three years, CITA EV reported. Fast charging generates more heat, stressing the battery and causing faster capacity loss.

To protect your battery, limit fast charging to no more than 20% of your sessions. Use overnight AC charging for daily use and reserve fast charging for when it’s absolutely necessary on long journeys.

2. Letting the battery run too low

Regularly depleting your battery to under 10% can speed up capacity loss by up to 40% over time. To preserve battery health, set your low-battery warning to 20% and maintain a charge between 20% and 80%.

When planning longer trips, plan charging stops ahead of time. Charging points can be subject to peak-time queues, maintenance, or even unavailability, U.K.’s EV charging service Tap Zap Go warned, so it is best to be prepared.

A person charges their EV with home charging station. Illustration frrom Pexels

3. Charging to 100% too often

Lithium-ion batteries, used in most EVs, degrade more quickly when consistently charged to 100%. Consumer Reports noted that these batteries charge most efficiently between almost empty and 80%.

Research from the National Battery Research Institute shows that charging consistently to 100% can result in 30% more degradation over three years compared to batteries charged between 20% and 80%. For daily use, aim for an 80% charge and reserve a full charge for long trips when you need the full range.

4. Poor home charging setup

Using improper equipment or a poorly installed home charging system can reduce charging efficiency by up to 30% and even damage your battery. Faulty wiring or inadequate circuit protection can create inconsistent charging patterns that stress the battery.

The Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Association reported that 15% of home charging installations have deficiencies that could impact both efficiency and safety. Familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s charging connectors and speeds, and invest in professional installation to ensure proper circuit protection and monitoring.

5. Ignoring performance warnings

Neglecting early signs of battery performance issues can lead to costly repairs. EV service centers report that addressing battery problems early can save up to 80% of the cost compared to waiting for significant damage.

Modern EVs offer battery health data, including range estimates, charging times, and energy consumption patterns. If you notice any abnormalities, consult a qualified technician to address potential issues before they worsen.