Knowledge / How-To — Vehicle Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for extending the lifespan and ensuring the driving safety of your electric tricycle. Like a car, your tricycle requires some TLC and regular servicing to keep it functioning as it should . Below is a practical guide covering the most important maintenance tasks.

1. Battery Maintenance

• Charging Habits: Avoid fully discharging the battery before recharging. Charge when the battery level is 20%-30%. Avoid overcharging; unplug the power cord promptly after it is fully charged .

• Storage Environment: Store the battery in a dry, well-ventilated place, avoiding high or low temperature environments. Do not store the battery in a state of low charge for long periods, as this can significantly reduce its capacity .

• Regular Inspection: Check for loose battery connections and corrosion on the electrodes. Clean the electrodes if necessary .

2. Tire Maintenance

• Tire Pressure Check: Regularly check tire pressure to ensure it is within the manufacturer's recommended range. Insufficient tire pressure increases power consumption, while excessive pressure affects comfort and grip . As a general guide, front tire pressure should be around 2.5 bar, and rear (load-bearing) tires around 3.0 bar .

• Wear Inspection: Observe tire tread wear. Replace tires promptly if severely worn to avoid the risk of slippage or tire blowout. Check for cuts, cracks, or embedded debris.

3. Brake System

• Brake Pad Inspection: Regularly check brake pad wear. They should have at least 2mm of material remaining .

• Brake Sensitivity Test: Squeeze both brake levers; they should feel solid with firm resistance. Spin the wheel and apply the brake; it should stop within 1-2 rotations . If you notice longer stopping distances or unusual noises, adjust the brake cable tension (drum brakes) or replace the brake pads (disc brakes) promptly .

4. Chain and Drivetrain System

• Lubrication: Regularly apply lubricant specifically designed for bikes/trikes to the chain to reduce wear and noise. Avoid using general-purpose oils like WD-40 .

• Tightness Adjustment: Check chain tension; if it's too loose or too tight, it will affect transmission efficiency .

5. Electrical Circuit Inspection

• Wiring: Check for damaged or aged wires to prevent short circuits or leaks .

• Lighting System: Ensure the headlights, turn signals, and brake lights are functioning properly .

6. General Care

• Avoid Overloading: Overloading accelerates vehicle wear and tear and affects battery life .

• Clean Regularly: Prevent dirt and dust buildup, especially around the motor and controller. Rust on metal parts should be treated promptly .

• Professional Inspection: It is recommended to have a comprehensive inspection at a professional repair shop every six months or after a certain mileage .

By following these simple maintenance steps, you can significantly extend the life of your electric tricycle and ensure a safe, efficient ride.