Electric cars are a lot simpler than combustion vehicles, but even simple things can break. And when they do, the bills can be quite high, especially if we’re talking about affordable cars

These first-generation Hyundai Kona and Kia Niro crossovers were some of the most affordable EVs in the United States when they were new, and you could get a good used one for roughly $15,000. They can’t touch today’s EVs in terms of speed, range, or charging performance, but back in the day, they were some of the best out there.

But both suffer from the same problem. One of the reduction gearbox bearings on the front drive unit is known to fail, leading to what enthusiasts and owners have dubbed the “wheel of fortune” ticking. Replacing the transmission at the dealer can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $5,000, which is a third of the car’s entire value.

Now, though, a German company claims it can help owners save up to 30% while also getting replacement parts that are as good as new.

SEG Automotive, known for making starters and alternators, is now also remanufacturing drive units for electric cars. The company started with the Large Drive Unit (LDU) fitted to the first-generation Tesla Model S, and then added the Renault Zoe to its portfolio. From the end of this year, SEG will also offer remanufactured drive units for the Kia Niro EV and Hyundai Niro EV under its Redrive brand.

The German company said it’s refurbishing everything, including the electric motor, transmission, and inverter.

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