As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain popularity in the UK, it's helpful to gain an understanding of what to expect when it comes to servicing your new EV. Unlike traditional cars with internal combustion engines, electric models have unique components and systems that require specialised attention.
If you're looking for information on how to have your electric car serviced, this guide will provide you with the essential information you need to keep your EV running smoothly.
Still on the fence about whether to take the leap? Take a look at Our Guide to Electric Vehicles.
Unsurprisingly, EV maintenance is different to that of a traditional car due to the unique components and systems that make up an electric vehicle. There are fewer moving parts in an all electric-vehicle compared to a traditional petrol or diesel car, so major service items such as oil changes are not required.
Servicing an electric car typically involves plugging into a diagnostic machine which will identify any potential issues with the electronics.
A technician will check the health of the battery pack and its state of charge to ensure that it's operating at its optimal capacity, checking for any signs of damage or wear and tear. They will also inspect the battery life electrical cabling, electrical systems and the charging port to ensure their correct function.
Electric cars have electric motors instead of an internal combustion engine. The motor's performance will be checked to ensure that it's functioning properly.
Tyres are obviously important for any car, but they're especially important for electric cars due to the added weight of the batteries. During servicing, the technician will check for any excessive tyre wear along with the tyre pressure, tread depth, and overall condition of the tyres.
Electric cars have regenerative braking systems, contrary to traditional friction brakes, that use the electric motor to slow down the car and recharge the battery. During servicing, the technician will check the brake pads, rotors, brake fluid, and callipers to ensure that they're functioning properly.
Our technicians will inspect the whole ventilation system and cooling system for functionality and will top up if required. They will replace the cabin air filter as required.
The technician will also perform the more traditional checks associated with a service, such as a visual inspection of the windscreen wiper blades, steering components, hydraulic systems, and mechanical components during an EV service.
EV Specialist Technicians are trained in servicing hybrid cars and fully electric cars as the process is naturally more complex than that of petrol and diesel models.
Curious about EV charging times? Take a look at our guide.
