Do Electric Cars Need Servicing?

As we venture into the future where sustainable and eco-friendly modes of transportation are becoming our reality, electric cars have taken the automotive industry by storm.

Sleek, silent and better for our planet, EVs are changing the way we think about commuting. But one question looms large for both new and potential EV owners: do electric cars need servicing? Are electric car service intervals the same as traditional petrol or diesel vehicles? Let’s take a closer look.

The Importance of Electric Car Servicing

Do electric cars need servicing? Absolutely. In fact, regular servicing should be considered non-negotiable for your EV. While it’s true that EVs tend to have fewer moving parts than their traditional counterparts, electric car servicing is still just as important. Here’s why:

Optimal Performance

Just like any high-tech machinery, electric cars have intricate components that require care and attention. Regular electric maintenance ensures that your EV keeps running as smoothly as the day you got it.

Maintenance Tailored to EVs

Electric car servicing isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal. It’s tailored to the unique needs of EVs, with a focus on battery health, regenerative braking systems, and power electronics. This specialised care ensures your EV remains efficient and eco-friendly.

Protects Your Investment

We know you’ve made a significant investment in your electric car. Servicing helps protect that investment, maintaining your vehicle’s resale value and preventing major issues down the road.

Safety First

Your safety and that of your passengers is paramount. Regular servicing can detect potential problems before they become safety hazards, giving you peace of mind on every journey.

EV Service Intervals: What to Know

Just like traditional vehicles, electric cars benefit from regular check-ups. Typically, these check-ups should occur annually or every 12,000 miles. However, this can vary depending on different manufacturer specifications. For instance,

Plus, service intervals can vary based on how you drive your electric car. If you frequently embark on long journeys or drive in extreme weather conditions, some drivers might opt for a 6-monthly interim service.

Following the manufacturer’s recommendations for EV service intervals is crucial to maintain your warranty and ensure the long-term health of your eco-friendly car.

What’s Typically Included in an Electric Car Service?

Electric cars do need servicing, just like a gas-powered vehicle. And maintenance for electric vehicles should include almost everything that your standard service does, just with a few minor differences.

Thankfully, EVs tend to be easier, and potentially cheaper to maintain – no spark plugs, exhausts or fuel systems to worry about.

We’ve provided a quick checklist of what we’ll be looking at:

• Engine motor(s) and batteries
• Oil and coolant
• Tyre pressure, tread and depth
• Regenerative braking system
• Battery system
• Suspension
  High voltage charging ports and cables

Electrical Components & Battery Health

Your electric car’s most critical component is its battery. During servicing, our technicians will assess the battery’s health and overall capacity. This step is vital to ensure your electric car maintains its range and efficiency.

Electric cars have their own set of diagnostics, and servicing technicians are trained to handle these. They use specialised tools and software to diagnose any potential issues, often before they become noticeable to you.

From there, skilled technicians will go through your EV with a fine-tooth comb, checking components like the cooling system, electric motor, and power electronics.

Your electric motor will need minimal maintenance, and your charging ports and cables will need the once over from our professionals.

Regenerative Braking Service

Regenerative braking captures the kinetic energy that’s usually lost in a conventional car’s braking system, turning it into electricity to help power your EV.

Luckily, this means that brake pads and rotors don’t get exposed to as much wear and tear, potentially increasing their lifespan between services.

However, just like your petrol or diesel car, your regenerative braking system will need a little TLC. We’ll inspect the full system, looking for cracks or wear that could cause leaks, alongside ensuring there isn’t any dirt or debris caught in the callipers or pads.

Common Questions About EV Servicing

What is the Cost of Electric Car Servicing?

Service costs can vary based on your car’s make, model, and service centre. However, think of it as an investment in your EV’s longevity.

We’ll provide a tailored quote for you, depending on your vehicle’s age, model, mileage and if there’s any components that need replacing. We provide cost-effective solutions that don’t break the bank – no need to go to a main dealership.

Is My Warranty Protected?

Many manufacturers offer warranties on their electric cars, and regular servicing helps protect those warranties. Ensuring you adhere to the service schedule is often a requirement to maintain the warranty’s validity.

DIY Maintenance for Electric Car Owners

While your electric vehicle needs servicing on a regular basis by the professionals, there are also a few things EV car owners can do at home to keep everything running smoothly between professional services.

1. Tyre Care: Regularly check your tire pressure to ensure optimal efficiency and safety. Maintain the recommended tyre pressure, which you can find in your vehicle’s manual or on the driver’s door jamb sticker. Also, rotate your tyres as needed to promote even wear.

2. Windshield Wipers: Don’t underestimate the importance of clear visibility. Check and replace your windshield wipers when they start to streak or leave streaks. Clear visibility is crucial for safe driving.

3. Cleaning: Keep your electric car clean, both inside and out. Regular cleaning prevents dirt and debris from interfering with sensors and can extend the lifespan of your car’s paint and interior materials.

4. Battery Care: While you can’t service the battery yourself, ensure it remains charged. Use your EV regularly to prevent deep discharge and recharge it before it reaches a low state of charge. General advice is to keep your EV’s battery between 20-80%.

However, while DIY maintenance can be a valuable addition to your electric car care routine, it should complement, not replace, professional servicing. Regular servicing by certified technicians is essential for maintaining your EV’s warranty, ensuring safety, and addressing complex issues.

Prolonging Your Electric Car’s Life

If you’re invested in making your electric car journey as smooth and long-lasting as possible, here are some tips to ensure your electric vehicle remains in top shape:

• Mind Your Driving Habits: Gentle acceleration and braking reduce wear and tear on your EV’s components. Smooth driving is a win-win for longevity and energy efficiency.
• Battery Care: Your EV’s battery is one of its most critical components. To preserve its health, don’t let it discharge or reach extreme high or low states of charge.
• Regular maintenance: Don’t skimp on electric car servicing. Regular check-ups ensure that your electric car continues to perform at its best. Remember, maintenance is an investment in long-term ownership.
• Prolonging your electric car’s life is all about smart choices and responsible ownership.

Choosing the Right Service Provider

Selecting the right service provider for electric car servicing is pivotal for a worry-free ownership experience.

When it comes to electric vehicles, specialised expertise is essential. We’re known for our expertise in electric vehicles, possessing the in-depth knowledge necessary for maintaining the future of driving.

With high standards and a wallet-friendly price point, let us be your first-choice for when you need to entrust your electric car to the professionals.