Bremscheck vom Profi. eBay Motors unterstützt mit passenden Ersatzteilen und Werkstatt-Ervice. Foto: eBay Motors

Braking guide: How electric cars can also pass the HU hurdle

Braking guide: How electric cars also pass the general inspection Electric cars have many advantages: they are quiet, emission-free and are rightly considered easy to maintain. However, many electric car drivers are in for a rude awakening at the first general inspection after three years. Some models have a failure rate of up to 9 per cent – compared to an average of 5.3 per cent for conventionally powered three-year-old cars. The most frequent complaint from inspectors is the brake system. It leads a shadowy existence in many e-cars in everyday life. And that can be expensive.

Rotting in the shadows: Why the brakes on electric cars are a special case

In conventional vehicles, the brake pads grip the brake disc almost every time the brakes are applied. This is not the case with electric cars: here, the electric motor takes over a large part of the deceleration – and feeds energy back into the battery as a generator. With so-called recuperation, modern e-vehicles can cover up to 90 per cent of their deceleration power, meaning that the mechanical brake is hardly needed. What initially seems like progress, however, has side effects: Without regular use, no brake pad rubs off, there is no frictional heat and no self-cleaning effect. As a result, recuperation improves the environmental balance and is actually easy on the brakes. But this is precisely where a problem arises: creating a hurdle

‘What is efficient in everyday life can be expensive at the first general inspection,’ says Karin Weissenberger, Head of eBay Motors Germany. “Because if brake discs or pads are not used for a long time, they can corrode. This can lead to an inspection during the general inspection.” Another consequence can be vibrations and noise emissions such as squeaking or grinding. The reduction in the friction coefficient also results in a poorer braking effect.

Due to corroded brake discs, many inspectors often refuse to issue a sticker to young e-cars. Particularly affected are vehicles that are often driven on short journeys and in urban traffic, where recuperation intervenes particularly frequently. In addition, moisture, dirt and long idle times promote the formation of rust on the brake discs.

However, with appropriate behaviour and the right maintenance – which platforms such as eBay Motors can help with – the HU hurdle can be easily overcome.

‘To keep the brakes of electric cars fit, drivers should carry out regular brake training,’ recommends Weissenberger. ‘This protects the brake pads from glazing and hardening, prevents rust and ensures that the brakes can always deliver their full performance.’

How to keep the brakes fit – even in an electric car

1. Use the brakes actively: Perform a longer deceleration with the brake pedal at least once a month – preferably on a dry road and at a moderate speed.
2. Reduce recuperation in a targeted manner: Many vehicles allow you to set the recuperation level manually. If you regularly switch to the low recuperation mode, the mechanical brake is automatically integrated more strongly.
3. Regular visual inspection: Rust, discolouration or uneven wear on discs and pads are the first warning signs. Noticeable noises such as grinding or squealing should also be taken seriously.

Don’t forget a workshop check: The brake system should be checked by professionals at least once a year – including brake fluid and electronic sensors.

eBay Motors: the safe address even in the event of damage

Even if the damage has already occurred, a repair does not have to be complicated or expensive – eBay Motors ensures this with a comprehensive range of services for vehicle owners. The number one marketplace for vehicle parts in Germany offers:

• Suitable brake parts for every model: Thanks to My Garage, users only see parts that really fit their own vehicle.
• Free return and money-back guarantee: If a part doesn’t fit after all – return shipping and refund are included.
• Workshop service can be booked directly: Appointment at a certified partner workshop including fixed price guarantee and payment by instalments on request – simply book online.

“You shouldn’t make any compromises, especially when it comes to safety-relevant components. That’s why we focus on tested quality, transparent prices and maximum user-friendliness,‘ explains Karin Weissenberger, ’so that sustainability and safety also go hand in hand with electric cars.”

This guest article appeared in the June issue of eMove360° magazine in german language. Download the PDF free of charge or order the print version at sabine.metzger@emove360.com