The maintenance required for an electric vehicle is similar to maintaining an internal combustion vehicle in some ways, but quite different in others. Electric motors have fewer moving parts and don’t require regular fluid changes or the replacement of mechanical components that wear out, leading to less maintenance overall. The biggest components in an EV, the battery pack and motors, need very little maintenance if the manufacturer’s recommendations are followed. EVs generally have longer servicing intervals than equivalent ICE vehicles, making ownership a more hassle-free experience. However, some models may not be as reliable, resulting in more frequent visits to the garage.
The battery pack in an electric vehicle should retain a significant portion of its original usable capacity after a decade of use. EVs with lithium-ion batteries equipped with a thermal management system tend to last longer than those without. It is recommended to keep the EV in a garage during extreme temperatures and to leave it plugged in when not in use. DC fast charging can accelerate battery degradation, especially when charging from low states or past a certain percentage. Motors in an EV also require minimal maintenance, with very few moving parts. The transmission in electric vehicles is typically a simple single-speed mechanism that should last a long time under normal use.
Like ICE vehicles, EVs require lubrication and cooling via fluids. However, the oil in an EV’s motor and transmission does not need to be changed as it does not lose its lubrication properties over time. Most EVs use a glycol-based coolant, which does not contain water and lasts longer than in an ICE vehicle. Tires on an EV wear out faster due to the vehicle’s heavier weight from the battery pack. EV-specific tires have been developed to cope with the extra weight and provide less rolling resistance. One area where EVs differ from ICE cars is in braking, with EVs relying more on regenerative braking to slow down. This results in less reliance on friction brakes, ultimately leading to longer brake pad life.
Replacing wiper blades, cabin air filters, and the 12-volt battery in an EV are similar to gas-powered cars. The 12-volt battery is essential for powering various systems in the vehicle and typically needs to be replaced every five to seven years. EVs’ extra weight can put more stress on suspension components, shock absorbers, and bushings, potentially causing quicker wear compared to a gas car. Each wheel’s hub assembly, specifically the bearing inside, may also wear out more quickly in an EV due to the heavier vehicle. Manufacturers have made these components slightly heavier-duty to handle the extra mass. Overall, EV maintenance is generally simpler and less frequent than ICE vehicles, offering a more streamlined ownership experience.
