INSIDE EV REPAIR: FIXING BATTERIES, DRIVE UNITS, AND HIGH-VOLTAGE SYSTEMS

EV Channels Review

This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast features Alex from Out of Spec Renew, offering a deep dive into the practicalities of EV repair, particularly focusing on high-voltage systems, drive units, and battery pack issues. Alex, a self-taught EV technician with extensive experience from QC Charge, shares insights from working on a variety of EVs, including early Tesla models and the Mitsubishi i-MiEV. He details common repair challenges, such as bearing failures in Tesla drive units and the benefits of using hybrid ceramic bearings for longevity. The discussion highlights the impressive durability of older EVs, with Alex sharing his personal 2015 Model S 70D, which has accumulated nearly 467,000 miles, requiring only minor repairs and a Tesla-performed MCU2 retrofit. The conversation also touches upon the evolution of Tesla's Media Control Unit (MCU) and the significant performance and feature improvements with the MCU2 upgrade. The episode underscores the growing need for independent EV repair expertise as more vehicles age out of warranty.