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There are numerous benefits to driving an electric vehicle vs. a gas-powered vehicle and more and more drivers are seriously considering making the switch.  By driving a plug-in vehicle, you are helping the environment, you don’t have to worry about the high prices at the gas pump, and you’ll save money on vehicle maintenance. 

Do electric cars require maintenance?

Electric cars are not maintenance-free.  Although you won’t make as many visits to your auto repair shop, there are still standard maintenance requirements you’ll need to take care of to make sure your EV runs smoothly.

Do electric cars need oil changes?

Electric cars do not need regular oil changes like traditional cars do. EVs are powered by a battery and an electric motor, so there are no valves, pistons or other moving parts that need lubrication to keep running.

What is the annual cost to maintain an electric vehicle?

According to AAA, the average annual estimate to maintain an electric vehicle is about $950.  This is for basic services like tire rotations, fixing the brakes, suspension, coolant flush, wiper blades, etc.

What are the routine maintenance guidelines for an EV?

Check the owner’s manual because every electric car manufacturer has its own guidelines.  Typically the main items you’ll need to maintain are the batteries, brakes, tires, and a few fluids and filters.  Here is a guide to the top 5 electric vehicle maintenance items.

1. Battery Maintenance – It’s very important to take good care of the batteries.  Every EV has two batteries, the big expensive battery pack that runs the car and the traditional 12v battery that powers the lights, windows, and small accessories in the vehicle. The battery we’re talking about here is the main battery that runs the vehicle. This battery is designed to last the lifespan of the vehicle, but extreme heat and cold will drain your battery and make the charge less efficient.  To help this, park your vehicle in a garage when possible during the cold winter months and avoid parking in the sun during the heat of summer. Don’t overcharge the battery, avoid charging your battery to 100%.  For maximum efficiency, it’s best to keep it within the 20-80% range.  When possible, avoid “Fast Charge” stations.  The fast charging will deplete your battery quicker and make charging not as efficient.
2. Brake Maintenance – EVs typically use regenerative braking, which means that the electric motor is used to slow the vehicle down instead of traditional braking.  Brake pads and discs still wear out, just at a slower rate. Check the braking system periodically to make sure everything is in good working order.
3. Tire and Wheel Maintenance – Electric vehicles use durable tires because they are heavier than gas-powered vehicles, and because EVs literally create zero road noise, they use special tire technology that helps quiet tire noise.  Therefore, tires for EVs are generally more expensive and tend to wear out faster.  So, you’ll want them to last as long as possible.  Regularly check the air pressure and inspect the tread for uneven wear.  Also keeping your EV aligned properly will go a long way for tire longevity.
4. Fluid Maintenance – Your electric car doesn’t require regular oil changes like gas cars do, but there are other fluids that will require occasional maintenance. 
   • Coolant: EVs have a coolant system to help cool down the battery pack and charger.  This may require a recharge or fluid flush periodically to stay efficient.
   • Brake Fluid: The regenerative braking system in EVs rely on brake fluid to work effectively.  Regularly check the brake fluid levels.
   • Windshield Washer Fluid: As with any vehicle, you’ll want to keep the windshield washer fluid topped off.
5. Filter Maintenance – Your EV doesn’t have oil filters, fuel filters, or engine filters, but they still have a cabin air filter and HVAC filter that will need to be replaced periodically.

Where can I get EV maintenance service near me?

Our team of technicians at Hilltop Tire Service is properly trained to work on electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and gasoline-powered vehicles.  We are passionate about great customer service and workmanship you can trust.  Choose Hilltop Tire Service of Des Moines, IA, and schedule service today!