Do Electric Vehicles need servicing?
In recent years, electric vehicles (EVs) have attracted a lot of interest as a cleaner and more environmentally friendly form of transportation. One widespread misperception about EVs as they gain popularity is that they don't need regular servicing. However, even EVs require maintenance.
EVs boast a simplified mechanical structure compared to your typical petrol- and diesel-powered vehicles. With no internal combustion engine, spark plugs, or complex transmission systems, EVs have fewer moving parts that require routine maintenance. However, this does not mean they are entirely maintenance-free.
Are Electric Vehicles Maintenance-Free?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are everywhere now - and for good reason. They’re cleaner, quieter, and often cheaper to run. But when it comes to looking after one, many drivers hit the same question: “do EV cars need servicing, or are they maintenance-free?”.
It’s true that electric vehicles have fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel cars - around 20 compared to over 2,000 in a combustion engine. That means less to wear out. But “fewer” doesn’t mean “none”. EVs still have brakes, tyres, fluids, suspension - and of course, that all-important battery. And just like with any car, neglecting routine checks can lead to problems down the line… expensive ones.
That’s why it’s important to service an EV just like any other car. It’s all about prevention and safety. A regular service ensures your EV is road-worthy and also prevents small problems to become bigger, more expensive ones.
Battery Care
The battery pack is a vital component of an electric vehicle. While modern EV batteries are designed to be durable, regular attention is still necessary for maintaining battery health and performance. Battery management systems ensure optimal charging and discharging, and periodic software updates may be required to enhance efficiency and longevity. That said, over time, all batteries degrade a bit - so it’s also worth checking your manufacturer’s recommended battery checks.
Braking System
EVs employ regenerative braking, to recharge the battery. Although this system reduces wear on traditional brakes, it still requires periodic maintenance to ensure its functionality and efficiency - especially since pads and discs still wear over time. Inspection and potential servicing may be needed to keep the regenerative braking system operating optimally. Most manufacturers recommend brake inspections every 12–18 months. It’s a quick check - but an important one for safety, so don’t skip it.
Tyre and Suspension
Just like any vehicle, EVs require regular tyre and suspension maintenance. EVs are heavier than traditional cars, and the weight of their battery pack can put extra strain on tyres and suspension components. Tyre rotation, alignment, and regular inspections are essential to ensure safety, and prolong the lifespan of these parts. Doing simple things regularly (like rotating your tyres, checking the pressures, and getting alignments done) can make a huge difference. Not just for comfort - but for safety too.
Cooling Systems
Electric vehicles rely on cooling systems to regulate the temperature of various components, including the inverter, battery and electric motor. These cooling systems may require occasional maintenance to clean and inspect the coolant, ensuring efficient heat dissipation and preventing overheating.
We recommend getting your EV coolant inspected and topped up every year (or every 12,000 - 18,000 miles). Coolant replacement intervals vary a lot depending on the car make and model, so take a look at your EV’s manual for any specific recommendations.
Manufacturer Recommendations
To maintain the warranty and performance of an electric vehicle, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's recommended servicing intervals. Manufacturers provide specific guidelines for inspections, fluid checks, and other maintenance tasks. Adhering to these recommendations ensures the longevity and reliability of an EV.
How Often Do Electric Cars Need Servicing?
So, how often do electric vehicles need servicing? The truth is that there’s no universal schedule, but most EVs need servicing every 12 - 24 months or 12,000 - 18,000 miles, depending on the model.
A few examples of how this can vary:
- Tesla recommends an inspection every 16,000 - 20,000 miles, or every 2 years.
- Kia’s service intervals vary greatly by model. Generally, the manufacturer recommends servicing every 10,000 miles, or every 12 months.
- Renault: Again, each model has its own interval guidance - so you’ll need to check your handbook. That said, a ballpark servicing interval for their electric vehicles, such as the Zoe, is every 18,000 miles.
Important: Always follow your manufacturer’s schedule. Skipping scheduled services might void your warranty. Don’t chance it - especially when MotorEasy makes it simple to stay on track.
How Much Does It Cost to Service an EV?
Typically between £100 - £250 depending on your car and the garage. That’s often cheaper than petrol or diesel cars, which can run from £175 - £300 per service.
In fact, the RAC estimates you’ll save about 23% over three years on servicing costs with an EV.
Here’s a quick look:
| Item | EV Servicing | Petrol/Diesel |
| Average Cost per service | £140 | £175+ |
| Annual Servicing required | No | Often yes |
| Brake wear rate | Lower | Higher |
Of course, if the battery ever needs replacing outside of warranty, that’s a big cost. So keeping a warranty in place can help you avoid those unwanted bills. Regular servicing can also help catch issues long before they get serious.
Why EV Servicing Still Matters
Servicing your EV isn’t about checking boxes - it’s about peace of mind.
Keeping up with EV servicing means:
- Warranty protection: most manufacturers require proof of servicing to keep your warranty intact.
- Safety: high-voltage systems aren’t DIY jobs. Only trained pros should touch them, and keeping them in check can prevent serious issues.
- Performance optimisation: small tweaks (like tyre pressure or software updates) can improve range and performance.
We always recommend using certified technicians who specialise in EVs to service your vehicle. They know exactly what to look for, so you’re not left guessing or paying for the wrong work.
FAQs: Electric Car Servicing
Do electric cars still need oil changes?
No, because no engine means no oil. But certain parts do need lubrication - your service will cover it.
Can I service an EV myself?
You can top up washer fluid and check tyre pressures, sure. But anything involving high-voltage systems or diagnostics? Leave it to the experts.
What happens during an EV service?
Typical checks include:
- Battery diagnostics
- Software updates
- Brake / suspension inspection
- Tyre pressure & tread check
- Coolant and fluid levels
Does EV servicing affect my warranty?
Not servicing your EV in line with the manufacturer’s guidelines can void your warranty, so make sure to stick to the servicing recommendations for you car.
Are EV services cheaper than petrol cars?
In most cases, yes. Fewer parts = fewer things to check, and generally fewer problems. But costs vary by model.
So, Do EVs Need Servicing?
While electric vehicles have fewer mechanical complexities compared to your petrol or diesel cars, they are not exempt from regular servicing. Although they may require less maintenance overall, EVs still necessitate attention to critical components such as the battery, braking system, tyres, and cooling systems. Following manufacturer recommendations and seeking professional help when needed will ensure the continued performance and longevity of an EV.
