Summary
Electric car maintenance is simpler and less expensive than gas-powered cars.
EVs are more cost-effective in the long run due to lower maintenance costs.
Owners must still follow recommended periodic checks to maintain warranty coverage.
Different EVs have different maintenance schedules for various components.
Battery degradation is a concern for EVs, but newer models are less likely to have this issue.
Article
Electric car maintenance is generally simpler and less involved than that of a gas car. While electric vehicles may cost more to purchase initially, they are cheaper to run with affordable home charging. EV owners also save money on long-term maintenance costs, avoiding expenses like tune-ups, oil changes, and transmission servicing. On average, electric vehicle owners spend about half of what conventionally powered auto owners do for regular service. However, owners must still follow periodic checks and services to keep their vehicle’s warranty in effect and ensure coverage for repairs.
Each electric vehicle model has its own specific maintenance schedule. For example, the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV requires monthly owner-performed tasks like checking tire pressure and examining tire wear. Other maintenance includes inspecting brakes and steering components, replacing cabin air filters and windshield wiper blades, and flushing corrosive materials from the underbody. Some tasks, like replacing coolant and brake fluid, are required every few years. Similarly, Nissan’s Leaf requires maintenance based on driving conditions, with more severe conditions requiring more frequent checks.
Tesla recommends specific maintenance items and intervals for its electric vehicles, such as checking brake fluid, replacing A/C desiccant bags and cabin air filters, and rotating tires regularly. The battery coolant and brake fluid do not typically need to be replaced for the vehicle’s lifetime under normal circumstances. Battery pack degradation is a consideration for all electric vehicles, but most batteries degrade gradually over time. While a few older EVs have needed battery pack replacements due to range loss, it is not common. If an EV’s range decreases significantly, owners may need to replace the battery pack or consider purchasing a new vehicle.
Electric vehicle maintenance does not exempt owners from regular upkeep tasks like tire replacements and brake servicing. Eventually, components like steering and suspension, hoses, and lights may also require attention. Owners should refer to their vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific maintenance requirements. Despite the need for periodic checks and services, owning an electric vehicle typically results in lower long-term maintenance costs compared to gas-powered vehicles. While electric cars may require some maintenance, they generally offer savings in the long run through reduced service needs and affordable home charging.
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