Do EVs require servicing?

July 30, 2019September 21, 2023 Stephen Corby 5254 Views

Electric motors generally don’t require servicing, lasting the life of the vehicle with practically no maintenance.

They don’t need oil changes, for example. Nor is regular replacement of consumables like filters, spark plugs and belts required. An electric motor has none of these things.

But other parts of an EV are identical to petrol and diesel cars.

Because they mainly utilise regenerative braking to slow down, the pads of an EV’s friction brakes will last a long time. But you’ll need to have steering and suspension systems checked, as well as tyres and windscreen wiper blades.

Most EVs also have a radiator/s with cooling fluid that needs to be replaced periodically.

So, while EVs should be cheaper to service, they will still require check-ups.

See all our frequently asked questions about electric cars.

Stephen Corby

Stephen is a former editor of both Wheels and Top Gear Australia magazines and has been writing about cars since Henry Ford was a boy. Initially an EV sceptic, he has performed a 180-degree handbrake turn and is now a keen advocate for electrification and may even buy a Porsche Taycan one day, if he wins the lottery. Twice.