Do Electric Vehicles Need Servicing?

Introduction

Due to their potential cost savings and favourable environmental effects, electric vehicles have been on the rise lately. Yet, many buyers have concerns over the upkeep and repair needs of electric automobiles. Despite the fact that electric cars are frequently commended for having fewer moving parts, they nevertheless need regular maintenance to function at their peak. This article will examine the many servicing requirements for electric vehicles, such as battery upkeep, software upgrades, and general maintenance. Consumers can choose to own and maintain these cutting-edge automobiles with knowledge of the maintenance needs of electric vehicles.

Do Electric Vehicles Need Servicing And Maintenance?

Yes, electric vehicles (EVs) need regular servicing and maintenance, just like traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. EVs rely on complicated electrical and electronic systems that demand specialised knowledge and tools for maintenance despite having fewer moving components. The battery, charging system, and other components can operate more effectively and safely with regular maintenance. The tyres, brakes, and suspension of an EV should also be checked regularly because they age with time and have an impact on the vehicle’s performance as a whole. In general, regular servicing and maintenance of an EV are essential to extending its lifespan and ensuring its optimal performance.

• Brakes: While EVs have regenerative braking that helps recharge the battery, they still have traditional brakes that require fluid, disc and pad checks to ensure they’re working correctly.
• Gear fluid: Some EVs have a gearbox, which requires fluid changes and regular checks.
• Cabin air filter: This filter helps keep the air inside the cabin clean and fresh and should be changed regularly to ensure it’s working effectively.
• Air conditioning: The air conditioning system in an EV needs to be checked and maintained to ensure it’s working correctly and efficiently.
• Tyres: Tyres require regular checks for pressure, tread wear, balance and rotation to ensure they last as long as possible and provide optimum performance.
• Suspension joints: The suspension system in an EV requires regular checks for wear and tear to ensure it’s working correctly and safely.
• Parking brake: The parking brake should be checked and adjusted regularly to ensure its functions are correct.
• Steering rack and power steering system: These should be checked regularly to ensure they’re working correctly and safely.
• 12-volt auxiliary battery: This battery is responsible for powering the vehicle’s electrical accessories and requires regular checks to ensure it’s working correctly.
• Electronic systems, vehicle and infotainment software: EVs have complex electronic systems that require regular checks and software updates to ensure they’re working correctly and safely.
• Lighting, wipers and other accessories: These should be checked regularly to ensure they’re working correctly and safely.
• Airbags and seatbelts: The safety systems in an EV require regular checks to ensure they’re working correctly and safely.

What Kind of Maintenance Do EVs Require?

Electric vehicles (EVs) require regular maintenance and occasional repairs, just like any other piece of machinery. However, compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) cars, EVs need far less work annually due to their simpler design and fewer moving parts. Here are some of the maintenance requirements for EVs:

Twice-a-year service check: EVs need a periodic service check to ensure the vehicle system is running optimally, and tire rotations are carried out to ensure even wear and tear.

Battery replacement: EVs in operation for longer than 8 to 10 years and after the manufacturer warranty expires may need a battery replacement. A new battery can range from $5,000 to $10,000, but industry analysts anticipate battery pricesto drop significantly in the next decade due to improving manufacturing processes and technological advancements.

Brake system: While EVs have regenerative braking that helps recharge the battery, they still have traditional brakes that require fluid, disc, and pad checks to ensure they’re working correctly.

Electronic systems: EVs have complex electronic systems that require regular checks and software updates to ensure they’re working correctly and safely.

Overall, while EVs require some maintenance and repair, they need far less than ICE cars due to their simpler design and fewer moving parts. However, regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the EV.

Are Electric Vehicles Cheaper To Service?

Yes, electric vehicles (EVs) are generally cheaper to service than traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. This is primarily because EVs have fewer moving parts, which means there are fewer components that can wear out and need replacing. Additionally, EVs do not require oil changes or other routine maintenance tasks that ICE vehicles need.

Here are some of the reasons why EVs are cheaper to service:

Fewer moving parts: EVs have far fewer moving parts than ICE vehicles. This means that there are fewer components that can wear out or break, reducing the likelihood of costly repairs.

No oil changes: Unlike ICE vehicles, EVs do not have an engine that requires oil changes. This eliminates the cost of regular oil changes and related maintenance.

Regenerative braking: Many EVs have regenerative braking systems that help recharge the battery and reduce wear and tear on the brake pads and discs. This reduces the need for brake replacements and related maintenance.

Longer service intervals: Due to their simpler design and fewer moving parts, EVs generally require less frequent servicing than ICE vehicles. This reduces the overall cost of maintenance.

Lower energy costs: EVs are typically cheaper to run than ICE vehicles because electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline or diesel fuel. This means that the overall cost of ownership for an EV is lower than that of an ICE vehicle, including servicing costs.

EV Maintenance Schedule

Maintaining an electric vehicle (EV) is relatively straightforward and cost-effective compared to traditional gas-powered cars. The maintenance schedule for an EV is significantly simpler, with fewer parts to service or replace. Regular maintenance of an EV is crucial to keep it running smoothly and extend its lifespan.

Here is an example of an EV maintenance schedule that is generally recommended:

Every 30 days:

• Check the tire pressure and examine the tires for excess wear.
• Check the windshield washer fluid and fill it if needed.

Every 7,500 miles:

• Have the tires rotated.
• Check the coolant level of the battery.
• Check the cabin heater, power inverter, accessory power, and charger modules.
• Inspect the brakes, steering, suspension, and chassis components for unusual wear or damage.
• Check the power steering and drive shafts for wear.
• Lubricate the door locks and inspect the gas struts for signs of suspension wear.
• Check the vehicle's various light bulbs and replace them if necessary.

At 15,000 miles:

• Replace the windshield wiper blades.

At 36,000 miles:

• Replace the cabin air filter.

At 75,000 miles:

• Replace the suspension gas struts.
• Drain and service the coolant circuits.

It is important to note that these recommendations may vary depending on the make and model of the EV. Always refer to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for your specific vehicle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, electric vehicles do require regular maintenance and servicing to ensure optimal performance and longevity. However, the maintenance requirements are generally simpler and less frequent than those of traditional gas-powered cars. With fewer parts to replace and a simpler maintenance schedule, owning an electric car can result in lower long-term maintenance costs. Overall, proper maintenance is key to keeping an electric vehicle running smoothly and efficiently.

FAQS

1. How EV Maintenance Works?

EV maintenance involves a set of procedures and checks that ensure the proper functioning of an electric vehicle. This includes regular inspection of components such as the battery, tires, brakes, and electronic systems.

2. What You Need to Service?

To service an electric vehicle, you will need basic tools, such as wrenches and screwdrivers, as well as specialized equipment to diagnose and repair electric systems. You will also need access to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and instructions.