Quick answer: To keep a kids' electric ride on car in top condition, you should charge the battery after every use, inspect wheels and tyres monthly, clean electrical contacts regularly, check the remote control connection, and store the car correctly between uses. Most ride on cars last 3–5 years with proper maintenance.
Why Maintenance Matters for Kids' Electric Ride On Cars
A kids' electric ride on car is a significant investment — and like any vehicle, it rewards regular care with a longer lifespan, better performance, and fewer breakdowns. The good news is that maintaining a ride on car doesn't require specialist tools or mechanical knowledge. A simple routine, followed consistently, will keep your child's car running reliably for years.
This guide covers every aspect of ride on car maintenance in plain, practical terms. It is written for parents and carers with no technical background, and covers everything from battery care to wheel replacement, remote control troubleshooting, and seasonal storage.
Whether you own a kids' electric car, a children's electric 4x4 or SUV, a kids' electric buggy or UTV, or a kids' electric dirt bike, the core maintenance principles are the same.
Section 1: Battery Maintenance
The battery is the single most important component in a kids' electric ride on car. It is also the most common cause of performance problems and the most expensive part to replace. Proper battery care will significantly extend its life.
How Long Do Ride On Car Batteries Last?
Most sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries — the standard type in kids' ride on cars — last between 1 and 3 years with regular use. Lithium batteries, found in higher-end models, can last 3–5 years. The actual lifespan depends heavily on how the battery is charged and stored.
Charging Best Practices
- Charge after every use — even a short 10-minute ride should be followed by a top-up charge. Never leave the battery in a discharged state
- Use the correct charger — always use the charger supplied with the car, or a verified replacement with the correct voltage (6V, 12V, or 24V). Using the wrong charger can permanently damage the battery
- Charge for the recommended time — most 12V batteries require 8–12 hours for a full charge from flat. Do not charge for more than 12 hours continuously
- Charge in a cool, dry location — avoid charging in direct sunlight, damp garages, or very cold conditions
- Check the power switch position — many ride on cars must be switched off during charging. Check your car's manual
Avoiding Deep Discharge
The most damaging thing you can do to a sealed lead-acid battery is allow it to fully discharge and leave it in that state. This is called deep discharge, and it can permanently reduce the battery's capacity or kill it entirely. If your car has been sitting unused for more than 2–3 weeks, charge the battery before use — even if it wasn't fully depleted when last used.
Signs Your Battery Needs Replacing
- The car runs for significantly less time than it used to on a full charge
- The car is slow or lacks power even after a full charge
- The battery is visibly swollen or bulging (replace immediately — do not use)
- The battery reads below 10V on a multimeter when fully charged
- The battery is more than 2–3 years old and performance has declined
Browse our full range of replacement kids' ride on car batteries — we stock options across all common voltages including 6V, 12V, and 24V.
Section 2: Wheel and Tyre Maintenance
Wheels take the most physical punishment of any component on a ride on car. Regular inspection prevents accidents and keeps the car driving straight and smoothly.
Monthly Wheel Checks
- Check for cracks or splits — inspect the tyre surface and sidewalls for damage, especially after use on rough terrain
- Check wheel fixings — ensure the wheel nuts or clips are tight and secure. Loose wheels are a safety hazard
- Check for wobble — lift each corner of the car and spin the wheel by hand. Excessive wobble indicates a worn axle or loose fitting
- Check tread wear — heavily worn tyres reduce grip and can cause the car to slide, particularly on smooth surfaces
Rubber vs EVA Foam Wheels
Most kids' ride on cars use one of two tyre types:
- Rubber tyres — provide better grip and a smoother ride, but can puncture or crack over time
- EVA foam tyres — puncture-proof and low maintenance, but offer less grip on wet surfaces
When replacing wheels, always match the tyre type and size to the original specification. Browse our kids' ride on car wheels collection to find the correct replacement for your model.
Section 3: Remote Control and Receiver Maintenance
The parental remote control is one of the most-used components on a ride on car — and one of the most overlooked when it comes to maintenance.
Remote Control Care
- Replace batteries regularly — weak remote batteries are the most common cause of range and response problems. Use quality alkaline batteries and replace them every 3–6 months with regular use
- Keep the remote dry — remote controls are not waterproof. Keep them away from rain and damp conditions
- Check the antenna — some remotes have a small antenna that can become bent or damaged. Ensure it is straight and undamaged
- Re-pair if needed — if the remote stops responding, it may need to be re-paired with the car's receiver module. Refer to your car's manual for the pairing procedure
Remote Receiver Module
The receiver module inside the car processes signals from the remote. If the remote is working correctly but the car doesn't respond, the receiver may be at fault. Signs of a failing receiver include intermittent response, the car only responding at very close range, or no response at all despite a working remote.
Browse our range of replacement remote receiver modules and replacement remotes if you need to replace either component.
Section 4: Electrical System Checks
The electrical system — wiring, fuses, switches, and connectors — is the nervous system of a ride on car. Most electrical faults are caused by loose connections, blown fuses, or corroded contacts rather than component failure.
Monthly Electrical Checks
- Inspect the charging port — look for bent pins, corrosion, or a loose port. Clean with a dry cloth or contact cleaner if needed
- Check the main power switch — the ignition switch or key switch should click firmly into position. A switch that feels loose or intermittent may need replacing
- Inspect visible wiring — look for any wires that have been pinched, chafed, or pulled loose, particularly around the battery compartment and under the seat
- Check the fuse — most ride on cars have an inline fuse near the battery. If the car suddenly stops working entirely, a blown fuse is often the cause. Always replace with the same amperage rating
If you need to replace the ignition switch, key, or gear stick, browse our ignition, switches, keys and gear sticks collection.
Section 5: Body and Cosmetic Maintenance
Keeping the bodywork clean isn't just cosmetic — dirt and moisture can work their way into electrical components and cause corrosion over time.
Cleaning Your Ride On Car
- Use a damp cloth — wipe down the body with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid pressure washers or hosing down the car, as water can enter electrical components
- Dry thoroughly — after cleaning, dry the car completely before use or storage, paying particular attention to the charging port and battery compartment
- Clean the seat — wipe the seat with a damp cloth. For leather or faux-leather seats, a small amount of leather conditioner will prevent cracking
- Check number plates and decals — inspect stickers and number plates for peeling or damage. Replacement decals are inexpensive and keep the car looking its best
Browse our number plates, decals and stickers collection for replacement cosmetic parts.
Section 6: Seasonal Storage
Improper storage over winter is one of the most common causes of ride on car problems. Follow these steps to store your car correctly during extended periods of non-use.
How to Store a Kids' Ride On Car for Winter
- Clean the car thoroughly before storage — remove all dirt and moisture
- Charge the battery to full before storing
- Disconnect the battery if storing for more than 4 weeks — this prevents slow discharge through the car's electronics
- Recharge the battery every 4–6 weeks during storage — sealed lead-acid batteries self-discharge over time and will be damaged if left flat for months
- Store in a cool, dry location — avoid damp garages or sheds where condensation can form. A temperature between 10°C and 20°C is ideal
- Cover the car to protect it from dust and moisture
- Remove the remote control batteries to prevent corrosion from battery leakage during storage
Recommissioning After Storage
Before returning the car to use after a long storage period:
- Charge the battery fully (this may take longer than usual if it has partially discharged)
- Check all wheels are secure
- Test the remote control and re-pair if necessary
- Check the charging port and electrical connections for any corrosion
- Test the car at low speed before allowing your child to use it
Section 7: Maintenance Schedule Summary
Use this schedule as a quick reference for ongoing maintenance:
After Every Use
- Charge the battery
- Wipe down the body if dirty
Monthly
- Inspect all four wheels for damage and security
- Check the charging port for corrosion or damage
- Test the remote control range and response
- Inspect visible wiring for damage
- Check the power switch and ignition
Every 3–6 Months
- Replace remote control batteries
- Clean the battery terminals
- Inspect the seat and bodywork for cracks or damage
- Check all decals and number plates
Annually
- Test the battery voltage with a multimeter
- Inspect the motor connections
- Consider replacing the battery if it is 2+ years old and performance has declined
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I charge my kids' ride on car battery?
You should charge the battery after every use, regardless of how long the car was driven. Sealed lead-acid batteries degrade faster when left in a discharged state. Even a short ride warrants a top-up charge.
How long does a kids' ride on car battery last?
With proper care, a sealed lead-acid battery typically lasts 1–3 years. Lithium batteries last longer — typically 3–5 years. The biggest factors affecting lifespan are charging habits and storage practices.
Why has my ride on car slowed down?
The most common cause is a battery that is losing capacity with age. Other causes include a partially discharged battery, a loose motor connection, or worn wheels creating extra resistance. Start by charging the battery fully and testing again.
Can I use my kids' ride on car in the rain?
Most ride on cars are not designed for use in wet conditions. Water can enter the battery compartment, charging port, and motor, causing corrosion and electrical faults. If the car does get wet, dry it thoroughly before charging or storing.
How do I know which spare parts fit my ride on car?
Check the model name and voltage on your car's label (usually found under the seat or on the battery). Our spare parts collection covers the most popular models. If you're unsure, contact us with your model details and we'll help you find the right part.
When should I replace the wheels on a ride on car?
Replace wheels when you notice visible cracking, splits, or significant tread wear, or if a wheel wobbles when spun by hand. Worn wheels reduce grip and can be a safety hazard, particularly on smooth or wet surfaces.
My ride on car remote has stopped working — what should I check?
Start with the remote batteries — this is the most common cause. If new batteries don't resolve the issue, try re-pairing the remote with the car following the instructions in your manual. If the problem persists, the receiver module inside the car may need replacing.
Where to Buy Spare Parts for Kids' Electric Ride On Cars
Electric Ride On Cars stocks a comprehensive range of genuine spare parts and accessories for kids' electric ride on cars, including:
- Replacement batteries — 6V, 12V, and 24V options
- Replacement chargers — matched to all common connector types and voltages
- Replacement wheels and tyres — rubber and EVA foam options
- Replacement remote controls
- Remote receiver modules
- Ignition switches, keys and gear sticks
- Replacement steering wheels
- Number plates, decals and stickers
- Full spare parts range
All parts are dispatched from the UK with fast delivery. If you need help identifying the correct part for your model, contact our team and we'll be happy to assist.
Summary
Maintaining a kids' electric ride on car is straightforward when you follow a consistent routine. The most important habits are: charge the battery after every use, store correctly during winter, inspect wheels monthly, and replace worn parts promptly. With proper care, a quality ride on car will provide years of reliable use.
For replacement parts, accessories, and new ride on cars, visit Electric Ride On Cars — the UK's specialist for kids' electric ride on cars and spare parts.
