The automotive industry is experiencing a major shift with the increasing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs). With their eco-friendly appeal and advancements in technology, EVs are fast becoming the choice for many drivers. However, the rise of EVs is also changing the way we approach car maintenance. While there are similarities between traditional vehicles and EVs, their maintenance requirements are vastly different.
In this blog, we’ll explore how electric vehicles are changing car maintenance, what owners need to know, and how mechanics are adapting to these new trends.
1. Fewer Moving Parts, Fewer Repairs
One of the most significant differences between electric vehicles and traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars is the number of moving parts. EVs have far fewer components that require regular maintenance. For example, EVs don’t have:
- Oil filters or require oil changes
- Exhaust systems or mufflers
- Timing belts or fuel injectors
- Spark plugs or pistons
Without these components, EVs have significantly lower maintenance needs. Fewer parts also mean fewer opportunities for mechanical failure, which is good news for EV owners, as it reduces the frequency of repairs and routine services.
2. Battery Maintenance Takes Centre Stage
While EVs eliminate many traditional maintenance tasks, they introduce new ones—particularly around battery health. The battery is the heart of any electric vehicle, and maintaining its health is crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of the car.
EV batteries degrade over time, and factors such as driving habits, temperature, and charging practices all affect the rate of battery deterioration. Unlike a petrol engine, which can often be repaired in parts, EV batteries generally need to be replaced as a whole unit if they fail, which can be costly.
To prolong battery life, regular battery checks and proper charging habits—such as avoiding constant fast charging—are recommended. Most EVs also come with battery management systems (BMS) that help monitor and maintain optimal battery performance.
3. Software Updates Are the New Tune-Ups
Electric vehicles are just as much about software as they are about mechanics. With advanced onboard computers and internet connectivity, many EVs require regular software updates to ensure they are running optimally. These updates can improve performance, enhance features, and fix bugs in the car’s system.
For EV owners, traditional “tune-ups” now include updating the vehicle’s software. Some EV manufacturers, such as Tesla, offer over-the-air (OTA) updates, which allow the car to receive software patches and upgrades remotely—eliminating the need to visit a service centre for updates.
4. Brake Wear is Reduced with Regenerative Braking
Regenerative braking is a feature in electric vehicles that allows the car to recover energy when slowing down, converting it back into electricity that recharges the battery. This system reduces the need to rely solely on traditional friction brakes, significantly decreasing brake wear.
As a result, EV owners may find themselves needing to replace their brake pads less frequently than traditional car owners. In many cases, brake pads on EVs can last up to three times longer than those on conventional cars, which leads to lower long-term maintenance costs.
5. Tyre Wear is Still a Key Concern
Despite their many advantages, electric vehicles are typically heavier than traditional cars due to the large battery packs they carry. This extra weight puts more strain on tyres, which can lead to faster tyre wear. EVs also deliver instant torque, which can accelerate tyre wear if drivers frequently take advantage of the fast acceleration.
Therefore, tyre maintenance remains a crucial aspect of owning an EV. Regular tyre rotations, maintaining proper tyre pressure, and choosing tyres specifically designed for EVs can help extend tyre life.
6. Specialised Training for Mechanics
The rise of electric vehicles has also brought about changes in the skills and knowledge mechanics need to service them. EVs operate on high-voltage electrical systems that require specialised tools and training to repair safely. Not all traditional mechanics are equipped to handle the unique components of an EV, such as battery diagnostics or motor repairs.
To keep up with the demand for EV services, many auto shops and technicians are now seeking specialised training and certifications for electric vehicle maintenance. Independent mechanics may need to invest in new diagnostic equipment and tools to stay competitive in the growing EV market.
7. EV-Specific Maintenance Costs
Although electric vehicles have fewer moving parts and lower general maintenance needs, certain repairs—especially related to the battery or motor—can be more expensive. For example, replacing an EV battery can cost several thousand dollars, though most manufacturers offer long warranties on their batteries.
On the other hand, with fewer oil changes, no exhaust system repairs, and less brake wear, EV owners can expect significantly lower routine maintenance costs over the lifespan of the vehicle.
8. The Role of Charging Infrastructure
One of the most significant differences in maintaining an EV versus a traditional car is the need for proper charging infrastructure. EV owners must plan for regular charging, whether at home with a dedicated charger or at public charging stations. Unlike petrol refuelling, which is quick and widely available, charging an EV takes more time and requires access to reliable infrastructure.
In addition, fast chargers can degrade the battery faster than slower charging methods, so it’s important for EV owners to balance convenience with long-term battery health.
Conclusion: A New Era in Car Maintenance
The shift towards electric vehicles is not only changing how we drive but also how we maintain our cars. With fewer moving parts, EVs offer lower maintenance needs, but they introduce new challenges, especially regarding battery health and software updates. As more EVs hit the road, mechanics will continue to adapt, gaining new skills and expertise to support the growing demand for EV maintenance and repairs.
For EV owners, understanding the unique maintenance requirements of electric vehicles will help ensure their car runs efficiently for years to come. Whether it’s regular software updates, tyre rotations, or battery checks, staying on top of EV maintenance is essential for keeping your electric vehicle in peak condition.
