Your guide to electric car servicing & maintenance

Maintaining an electric vehicle (EV) with regular servicing can ensure optimal performance and longevity

While an EV has different servicing requirements compared to a conventional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicle, there are important aspects to consider.

In this guide, we'll explore some key points about electric car servicing, highlighting similarities and differences with ICE vehicles, and emphasising the importance of regular maintenance. Remember, always consult an authorised EV servicing provider for specific guidance tailored to your vehicle.

Do electric cars need servicing?

As with any significant machinery and equipment, regular servicing helps identify potential issues before they become major problems. A well-maintained EV is more likely to retain its value over time and, in any case, maintaining manufacturer-recommended service schedules ensures warranty compliance. So it’s really quite simple… regular servicing contributes to a safer and more reliable driving experience.

Are electric cars less maintenance?

Electric vehicles have fewer components than ICE vehicles, leading to simplified maintenance and, therefore, lower cost servicing and maintenance bills. Regular servicing is essential to keep any EV in good condition and important areas that a service will check include battery, brakes, tyres, suspension, ventilation, windscreen wipers, and fluid levels.

What are the similarities between EV and ICE vehicle servicing?

While the technical functions differ, certain aspects of servicing remain the same. Regular brake checks are crucial for safety and optimal performance. The monitoring of tyre wear, pressure, and alignment is necessary for a smooth and efficient ride. A service will also check fluid level inspections, including brake fluid, because of course these are essential for proper operation. And, as with an ICE vehicles, assessing the condition of features like windscreen wipers ensures visibility.

What servicing is required for an electric car?

An EV service requires specialist knowledge and expertise due to the unique components of the vehicle. Of course, battery health checks are vital to maintain range and performance, and the brake, coolant and lubricating fluids that an EV uses are different to what are used for an ICE vehicle. Also, and very importantly, EV charging elements including cables and connectors will be inspected and tested. Finally, software updates are vital to maintain functionality and address any performance issues.

Always seek professional advice

As mentioned earlier, always consult an authorised EV servicing provider with any specific queries you have; not only do they have specialist knowledge, they will offer you personalised guidance. And how often should you service an electric car? A good general rule to follow is to aim for an annual service, much like you would for a petrol or diesel car.

Remember, the regular servicing of an EV is only one aspect of its maintenance. You should still regularly check brake performance, inspect tyre pressures and fluid levels just like any other vehicle. And you should also know that, just like any road-going vehicle over a certain age, an EV needs an MOT Certificate that certifies roadworthiness.

You must also always be familiar with the latest government guidance on EV ownership, including things like Road Tax (aka Vehicle Excise Duty); for example at the time of writing a zero-emission vehicle registered after 1 April 2017* is exempt from Road Tax, but if that changes you ought to be aware.

Given all that, there’s little doubt that regular servicing with reputable professionals, can help ensure your EV will perform as new for longer, providing a reliable and eco-friendly driving experience for years.