Electric vehicles are no longer a novelty—they’re now part of everyday life here in Lafayette. From the growing number of Teslas on local streets to EV trucks like the Ford Lightning, more drivers are making the switch to electric. But while EVs may have fewer moving parts than traditional gas-powered vehicles, they still need proper care to stay reliable, efficient, and safe.
At Beck’s Auto Center, we’ve made it a priority to stay current with electric vehicle service technology. Our team is trained to safely diagnose and maintain today’s EVs, whether you drive a Chevy Bolt, Hyundai Ioniq, Nissan Leaf, Tesla, or any other model. EVs aren’t just cars with batteries—they have entirely different systems that require expert attention.
Here are five essential areas of EV maintenance we focus on at Beck’s, and why they matter for every electric driver in 2025 and beyond.
1. High-Voltage Battery Health Checks
Your EV’s battery is its most valuable and complex component. Unlike a standard 12-volt system, these high-voltage battery packs require specialized tools and training to diagnose accurately. At Beck’s, we use advanced battery diagnostic equipment to measure voltage levels, detect imbalances, and assess long-term health.
This helps you:
- Spot early signs of battery degradation
- Maintain optimal range
- Avoid costly repairs down the line
“They didn’t just guess. They pulled real battery diagnostics and told me how to protect my range over time. That’s next-level service.”
– Max S., West Lafayette
2. Regenerative Brake System Inspections
One of the unique features of EVs is regenerative braking, which slows your car down by converting kinetic energy into electricity. While this extends the life of your brake pads, it can lead to other issues—like underused hydraulic parts or calipers that seize from lack of use.
Our technicians inspect the entire braking system, ensuring the transition between regenerative and traditional braking is smooth and safe. Regular brake checks are still essential, even if your EV doesn’t “feel” like it’s using its brakes much.
3. Thermal Management and Coolant Systems
EVs rely heavily on thermal management systems to keep the battery, motors, and electronics at safe operating temperatures. These systems use special liquid cooling loops, and just like in a gas vehicle, they need routine inspection.
We check:
- Coolant levels and condition
- Pump operation and flow
- Radiators and heat exchangers for leaks or clogs
This type of EV coolant system maintenance helps prevent overheating, performance loss, and premature wear.
4. Charging System Diagnostics
Whether you’re charging at home or using a public DC fast charger, your EV’s charging system needs to be in top shape. Damaged ports, faulty onboard chargers, or degraded cables can lead to charging issues—or worse, leave you stranded.
Our team checks:
- Charger port function and cleanliness
- Cable integrity
- Charging speeds and compatibility
Routine diagnostics of the EV charging system ensures you can rely on your vehicle’s range and avoid downtime.
5. EV-Specific Safety Measures and Technician Training
Servicing an electric vehicle isn’t the same as working on a traditional engine. The high-voltage systems used in EVs can pose serious risks if handled incorrectly. At Beck’s, our technicians are certified to work on electric vehicles, and we follow industry-standard safety protocols, including:
- High-voltage gloves and insulated tools
- Lockout/tagout procedures
- System isolation techniques during repairs
“I was nervous about finding someone local to work on my EV. Beck’s explained everything and had the right tools — I didn’t have to drive to Indianapolis.”
– Carrie T., Lafayette
Your Trusted EV Maintenance Shop in Lafayette, IN
You don’t need to visit a dealership or travel out of town to find expert care for your EV. At Beck’s Auto Center, we bring the same level of transparency, honesty, and experience to electric vehicle maintenance as we do to traditional car care.
Whether you’re due for an EV brake inspection, battery check, or just want peace of mind before your next road trip, our Lafayette shop is fully equipped to handle your vehicle’s unique needs.
Looking for electric vehicle service near you? Contact Beck’s Auto Center today to schedule your EV maintenance appointment—and experience the local shop that’s ready for the future of driving.