EV Care in Miami: Tires, 12V Battery & A/C Service (2025)
EV Care in the 305: Tires, 12‑Volt Batteries & A/C Service You Still Need in 2025
Florida is one of the nation's EV leaders—second in total EV registrations behind California—so more Miami drivers are asking what maintenance still matters. Spoiler: plenty. Your EV still needs alignments, 12‑volt battery care, and A/C service, especially in our heat and humidity. (AFDC data)
1) Tires & Alignment — Instant Torque = Faster Edge Wear
Why it matters: EVs are heavier and deliver torque instantly, which can accelerate shoulder wear and magnify any misalignment.
How to stay ahead:
- Rotate every 5–6k miles (or per your owner's manual).
- Check pressures monthly (and before road trips).
- Mind load index & speed rating—EV‑rated tires handle weight and torque better.
- Schedule an alignment after curb hits, potholes, or uneven wear.
- Wet‑grip rule of thumb: Replace at ~4/32" for Miami's rainy season.
Helpful guide: How to reduce tire wear on EVs (Michelin) • FYI: AAA notes flat tires are a common EV roadside issue, not just low charge. (AAA EV roadside overview)
2) The Small Battery That Can Strand You: 12‑Volt
Yes, EVs still have a 12‑V battery. It powers computers, locks, and closes the high‑voltage contactors so the car can "wake up." A weak 12‑V = no start, even with plenty of range.
Care plan:
- Annual 12‑V battery test (pair with tire rotation).
- Watch for slow screens, erratic accessories, or alerts after parking.
- If the 12‑V is 3+ years old, plan a proactive replacement.
Learn more: NHTSA EV basics (DC‑DC & 12‑V)
3) A/C Service — Cooling You and (Sometimes) the Battery
Most late‑model vehicles (including many EVs) use R‑1234yf refrigerant. EVs run electric compressors that require non‑conductive, EV‑safe oil; mixing oils or using contaminated machines can damage the compressor.
Care plan:
- If A/C gets weak, noisy, or smelly, request a performance check—don't just "top off."
- Ensure your shop uses EV‑safe A/C equipment and the OEM‑specified oil to protect the compressor and high‑voltage system.
- Replace the cabin air filter 1–2x/year to keep airflow and evaporator odor in check.
References: EPA HFC phasedown (AIM Act FAQ) • MACS: high‑voltage A/C oil cross‑contamination
Bonus: Brakes on EVs Still Need Love
Regen braking reduces pad wear, but rotors and calipers can rust or stick if friction brakes aren't exercised. Ask for a periodic brake inspection and burnish to keep things clean and responsive.
Quick Miami EV Checklist
- Monthly: Check tire pressures; quick tread check; windshield washer fluid.
- Every 5–6k miles: Tire rotation + alignment check.
- Annually: 12‑V battery test, brake inspection, cabin filter.
- Any A/C complaint: Request EV‑safe A/C diagnostics (not just a recharge).
- Traveling? Find fast chargers with the DOE station locator:
DS Proformance's EV Essentials Package
- Alignment check with digital equipment
- 12‑V battery state‑of‑health test & terminal service
- A/C performance test (R‑1234yf capable) with EV‑safe oil handling
- Brake inspection (including rust/burnish recommendations)
High‑voltage note: We service alignments, brakes, suspension, 12‑V electrical and A/C. For high‑voltage battery faults, we'll help coordinate dealer‑level support.
