Do You Need Regular Maintenance for Electric Cars?

Electric cars, despite their impressive eco-friendly credentials, still require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Unlike traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, electric cars have different needs, which we will discuss in this article.

Common Maintenance Tasks for Electric Cars

While some components of electric cars, like the tires and windshield wipers, require regular attention similar to their ICE counterparts, other tasks are less frequent or can be less labor-intensive. Here, we break down what you need to know about maintaining an electric vehicle (EV).

Regular Inspection and Top-Off

One of the most critical aspects of electric car maintenance is to perform a multi-point inspection annually, just as with ICE vehicles. This includes checking the battery, tires, and fluid levels. Unlike ICE vehicles, the service manual for electric cars usually recommends this annual inspection to assess the overall health of the car. Electric cars typically don't require frequent oil changes, a common necessity for ICE vehicles.

Battery Maintenance

Battery health is a significant concern for electric vehicle owners. While the battery doesn't require regular charging cycles like a traditional battery, it should be examined periodically. Some manufacturers even require specific battery checks during routine maintenance to ensure optimal performance and safety. The battery pack may need to be checked for signs of wear and tear as well as any potential issues that could compromise its performance.

Moving Parts and Brake Maintenance

It is a common misconception that electric cars have no moving parts. In reality, every EV contains several moving parts, most notably the engine and transmission—a significant difference from traditional ICE vehicles. For instance, a Tesla requires an oil change every 80,000 miles, similar to many ICE vehicles. Additionally, the brakes in electric cars still wear out over time and need regular inspection to ensure safety and performance.

Special Maintenance for Certain Models

While most electric cars can be serviced similarly, some models, like Tesla, have specific maintenance needs that must be performed by authorized technicians to maintain the warranty. Tesla, for example, has a monopoly on servicing their vehicles, meaning that non-Tesla-certified mechanics cannot service them. This ensures that Tesla vehicles receive the best possible servicing and care.

Species of Moving Parts

Electric cars do have some moving parts, particularly in the motor and transmission. For instance, an electric motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy, and its components will wear out over time. Regular checks and servicing can prevent costly repairs and ensure the motor continues to function at peak efficiency.

Conclusion

In summary, electric cars require regular maintenance, primarily in the form of annual inspections, battery checks, and brake inspections. While the maintenance needs of electric cars may differ from those of ICE vehicles, they are still necessary to ensure a safe and reliable driving experience. It's important for owners to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and have their vehicles serviced by authorized technicians when needed.