Electric Car Maintenance: Service Intervals and Costs

UK roads continue transforming, with sleek Teslas gliding past iconic London buses and Nissan Leafs navigating narrow Yorkshire lanes. Questions persist among prospective buyers about maintenance requirements, service locations and expected costs.

For drivers actively considering buying or leasing EVs or simply curious about ownership realities, we will cover servicing schedules, cost and maintenance so you can make informed decisions.

Why EV Maintenance Stands Apart

Electric vehicles revolutionise traditional maintenance through significantly simplified mechanics. While conventional engines contain hundreds of moving parts requiring regular attention, electric motors operate with minimal components needing service.

According to Consumer Reports, Teslas are the cheapest cars to service and maintain.

Key differences include:

• Regenerative braking systems reduce wear on brake pads and discs, extending their lifespan considerably

• Absence of oil changes, spark plugs, timing belts or exhaust system repairs eliminates many traditional service needs

• Regular software updates enhance performance and features, often completed remotely without garage visits

• Cooling systems focus solely on battery temperature management rather than complex engine cooling requirements

• Electric motors require minimal mechanical intervention, with most maintenance focusing on diagnostic checks

Modern EVs also benefit from sophisticated diagnostic systems, allowing precise monitoring of vehicle health. This technology enables early detection of potential issues before they develop into significant problems, which can improve the lifespan of the car.

However, specialised components do require professional attention when service becomes necessary. Battery health checks, high-voltage system inspections and thermal management system maintenance demand qualified technicians with specific EV certification. Service Frequency and Schedule

Manufacturer recommendations for EV service intervals typically extend beyond traditional vehicle schedules. Most electric cars require professional attention every 18,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. EVs generally have fewer maintenance requirements than internal combustion vehicles.

Here are two popular EVs and their maintenance schedules:

Tesla Model 3

• Check brake fluid quality and replace when needed (4-year intervals)

• Change air conditioning desiccant bags (4-year intervals)

• Replace cabin filtration systems (every 2 years)

• Service brake calipers annually or at 12,500-mile intervals - particularly crucial for vehicles driven on salt-treated winter roads

• Schedule tyre rotations at 6,250-mile intervals or when tread depth variations exceed 1.5mm

Porsche Taycan 

• Air and pollen filtration replacement: 20,000-mile intervals or biennial checks

• Brake fluid servicing: 20,000-mile intervals or every two years

• Battery cooling system: Lifetime guarantee (replace only if system requires renewal)

• Tyre position changes: 10,000-mile intervals or yearly inspections

• Windscreen cleaning system: 20,000-mile or biennial inspection with replacement as needed

Service timing depends on driving patterns and environmental conditions.

Essential Service Requirements

Despite simpler mechanics, EVs still need thorough checks to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Primary service elements include diagnostics, such as:

Battery system care:

• Health monitoring of individual cells

• Connection checks across high-voltage components

• Cooling system fluid level inspection

• Terminal cleanliness verification

Brake system maintenance:

• Fluid level checks despite reduced wear

• Pad and disc inspections

• Calibration of regenerative braking systems

• Hydraulic system pressure tests

Additional checks:

• Tyre rotation and pressure monitoring (especially important due to increased vehicle weight)

• Suspension component assessment

• Air conditioning performance evaluation

• Windscreen wiper mechanism servicing

Average Service Costs and Cost Comparison

Here's a breakdown of typical maintenance expenses:

Standard Service Costs:

• Basic service: £100-£150

• Full service with diagnostics: £150-£250

• Comparative savings: Up to 43% lower than petrol vehicles

Component-Specific Maintenance:

• Brake fluid replacement: £50-£70

• Cabin filter change: £30-£45

• Tyre rotation: £25-£40

• Battery diagnostic check: £50-£75

All cars available through The Electric Car Scheme come with maintenance packs as standard, and the cost of those packs can be salary sacrificed so you can save 20-50% on the cost if you bundle it in with your salary sacrifice lease.

Check out our in depth guide on EV running costs.

Why Electric Vehicle Maintenance Costs Less

Electric vehicles transform traditional vehicle running costs through fundamental design differences, leading to multiple areas of savings. These are the factors that reduce costs:

• Simpler mechanical systems requiring fewer replacements

• Elimination of traditional engine-related services

• Advanced diagnostic systems preventing major issues

• Longer component lifespans

• Reduced labour time requirements

• No engine oil changes required

• Reduced brake wear through regenerative systems

• Extended service intervals

• Remote software updates included in vehicle cost

Transitioning to electric vehicles represents more than environmental consciousness - substantial maintenance savings make EVs increasingly attractive.

Salary sacrifice schemes unlock potential savings between 20-50% on electric vehicle costs, transforming premium vehicles into affordable options. Combined with reduced servicing expenses and simplified maintenance requirements, you can have an EV for cheaper than you thought! Check out the best EVs to salary sacrifice!

Last updated 05.12.24