Electric and hybrid servicing

Just like petrol and diesel vehicles, electric vehicles require a regular servicing schedule to keep them operating at their optimal efficiency throughout their lifetime. EVs are generally easier to maintain due to fewer moving parts, but that doesn’t mean that it is any less important to keep on top of. Here we look at what needs servicing and why on your electric or hybrid vehicle.

Electric motor and battery As a general rule, very little maintenance will need to be carried out for the electric motor and battery, but they should still be checked over by a professional according to the car’s recommended servicing schedule to spot any issues that may arise.
Suspension and steering Due to the extra weight in batteries that an EV is carrying, the car’s suspension and steering can be put under extra pressure compared to a petrol or diesel vehicle. Extra care and attention should be put into servicing the suspension and steering of a heavy electric vehicle.
Tyres Similarly to the suspension and steering, the tyres can wear quicker due to the extra weight and instant torque that comes with electric or hybrid vehicles. It’s difficult as the driver of the car to properly check the condition of the tyres, so making time for this during a service is important.
Brakes Electric vehicles, typically, use their brakes less due to regenerative braking, but this doesn’t mean they won’t need servicing. In fact, the lack of use can lead to corrosion, meaning they will need to be replaced before they become ineffective. This is something that can only be effectively assessed during a service.
Heating and ventilation assessment Despite not having a traditional cooling system, electric vehicles rely heavily on their heating and ventilation systems to ensure the long-term health of the battery. Regular checks ensure that there are no leaks and that the system will not overheat.
Oil and other fluids Oil, coolant, and brake fluid should be checked regularly as part of a routine servicing schedule. Making sure these fluids are at the correct levels will allow the car to operate at its best.
Battery maintenance Over time, the battery in your electric car will degrade, but you can prevent excessive degradation by treating the battery with care. Avoiding rapid chargers unless necessary will extend the life of the battery, as well as try to keep the battery between 20% and 80%. It is, however, worth noting that most manufacturers will replace worn-out batteries within 100,000 miles or 8 years, whichever comes first.

Types of services

Just like petrol and diesel vehicles, electric vehicles can have interim or full services. An interim service usually includes an oil, and filter change, as well as a general check of the vehicle’s general safety and brakes. A full service includes all of these things as well as a more in-depth check of other components.

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Servicing FAQs

Still have questions about electric servicing? Take a look at our FAQs below.

How is an electric vehicle service different?

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Electric cars differ from petrol and diesel cars because they don’t have an engine. The addition of an electric motor in place of an engine makes the servicing slightly different due to fewer moving parts. Electric vehicles, for example, tend to weigh more, meaning that components like brakes and tyres might wear out quicker.

How long does the service take?

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The length of a service depends on various factors. A major service will take significantly longer than an interim service, for example. The condition of the car will also play a part. It’s best to check with your provider beforehand so you can plan your day around your car’s service.

What is included in the service?

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In an electric car service, the condition of components and car parts, like the brakes, tyres, suspension, wipers, and lights, alongside the vehicle’s cooling system and air filter, will be checked. Brake fluids and washer fluids will also be assessed and topped up accordingly.

How regular should I get my electric car serviced?

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Generally, manufacturers advise that electric cars should be serviced less frequently than petrol or diesel vehicles. You should consult your car’s manual to be sure, but the average is about every 18,000 miles or two years. Having said this, it certainly won’t harm your car to service it every year, potentially leading to better fuel economy and longer life.

Find out more about electric vehicles