Electric Ride-On Care Guide: Essential Tips For Parents

Just purchased an electric ride-on for your kid? Now that you’ve invested in a new ride-on toy, it’s time to learn all about proper ride-on maintenance to ensure child safety and extend the life of your electric car for kids. Here are our six essential parent tips for ride-on care:

1. Regular cleaning and maintenance

Keeping your child's electric ride-on vehicle clean is essential for ride-on maintenance and performance. Dust, dirt and debris, especially around the wheels and undercarriage, can reduce traction, strain the motor and impact child safety. This is how you can effectively clean the ride-on toy:

• Use mild soap and water — For general cleaning, use a soft cloth with mild soap and water to wipe down the exterior of the ride-on toy. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the plastic or painted surfaces.

• Focus on the wheels and undercarriage — Regularly clean these areas to ensure a smooth ride for your child. For example, if the electric car for kids is used on grass or gravel, debris may get caught in the wheel mechanisms. A small brush or an old toothbrush can help remove dirt in hard-to-reach areas.

2. Proper storage

Proper storage is key for ride-on maintenance because it keeps your child's ride-on toy safe from weather damage and wear. Here's how to store your electric ride-on:

• Find a suitable storage area — Store the kids' ride-on in a sheltered, dry area, away from extreme temperatures, rain and humidity to prevent rusting or plastic fading.

• Disconnect the battery for long-term storage — Disconnecting the battery during extended storage helps avoid corrosion and keeps it in better condition.

• Use a cover — Consider a protective cover to shield the electric car for kids from dust and scratches, especially if stored in a garage or shared space.

• Winter storage — Store the ride-on indoors during colder months to protect it from freezing temperatures, which can damage both the plastic parts and the battery.

• Off-season check-ups — After storing, inspect all components, including the battery, wiring and tyres, double-checking that everything is in working order before use.

3. Ride-on battery care and charging guidelines

Charging habits can greatly affect the battery's longevity, which is key to safe and lasting ride-on care. Simply follow these guidelines:

• Charge properly — Follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid overcharging or letting the battery fully deplete, as both can wear down the battery over time.

• Storage tips — Disconnect and store the ride-on battery in a cool, dry place when it won't be used for a while. Disconnecting the battery during off-seasons prevents slow drain and corrosion.

• Battery replacement — If the ride-on car no longer holds a charge or has significantly reduced runtime, it may be time for a replacement. Look for compatible replacement batteries recommended by the manufacturer, and dispose of old batteries safely at a recycling centre.

4. Routine inspections

Ideally, you should inspect your kids’ ride-on toys as often as after each use or at least once a week, depending on how frequently they are used. Here's what to look out for:

• Check for wear and tear — Look for loose bolts, cracked plastic or any damaged wiring. Routine checks help catch small issues before they become larger problems.

• Tyre condition — Inspect the tyres for adequate tread, especially if your ride-on car is used on rough terrain. Worn tyres can reduce traction and affect child safety. If the ride-on has inflatable tyres, check air pressure regularly for balanced, smooth rides.

• Unusual sounds — Listen for any clicking, grinding or rattling noises, which could indicate a mechanical issue that needs attention.

5. Protecting electrical components

Electric ride-ons rely on sensitive components that require extra care. Exposure to water or rough handling can lead to safety risks or costly repairs, so make sure to:

• Keep away from water — To protect the electric ride-on, avoid riding through puddles, mud or wet grass, as moisture can damage the motor, battery and wiring.

• Secure wiring — Periodically check that all wiring is intact and securely fastened. If any wires appear loose or exposed, consult the manufacturer or a repair service to avoid potential issues.

6. Proper usage guidelines

Last, but certainly not least, you and your little one must always follow proper usage guidelines. Aside from child safety, following the manufacturer's guidelines ensures your ride-on toy remains operational for a long time. In addition to model-specific guidelines, refer to these general safety tips for parents:

• Stick to suitable surfaces — Electric cars for kids work best and are safest on flat, smooth surfaces. Avoid steep hills, gravel or rocky areas, as these can strain the motor and make the ride-on difficult to control.

• Designate a riding area — Create a safe space free of obstacles for your child to ride, which reduces wear and tear, and helps them enjoy their playtime safely.

• Maintain weight and load limitations — Follow the manufacturer's weight limits to avoid overloading, which can strain the motor, damage the frame and impact ride-on maintenance.

Learn even more about keeping your child's ride-on in top shape with RideOns.com.au

Trust RideOns.com.au for comprehensive tips and resources on safe, lasting ride-on toy use. Check out our ride-on car maintenance guide for detailed advice on battery care, storage and more essential upkeep practices. By following these additional ride-on care tips, you can help ensure that your child's electric ride-on stays in top condition, providing years of safe and exciting play.

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