Do Electric Cars Need Servicing

Introduction

As more UK drivers make the switch to electric vehicles, one of the most common questions they ask is whether electric cars need servicing. At first glance, EVs might seem almost maintenance-free. They have no oil to change, no clutch to replace and no exhaust system to worry about. The simplicity of their design is one of the main reasons electric cars are becoming so popular. However, like any complex piece of machinery, electric vehicles still require regular servicing to remain safe, reliable and efficient. This article explores exactly what servicing an electric car involves, how often it should be done, how it differs from petrol and diesel vehicle maintenance, and what UK drivers should expect in terms of cost, checks and long-term care.

Do Electric Cars Need Servicing?

Yes, electric cars do need servicing, but generally less often and at a lower cost than conventional petrol or diesel vehicles. While the high-voltage electric drivetrain requires minimal attention, other systems such as brakes, tyres, suspension and cooling still need to be inspected and maintained. Regular servicing ensures that safety systems like steering, lights and brakes continue to work properly and that the vehicle software is kept up to date.

Electric cars are complex digital machines, combining mechanical and electronic systems that depend on precise calibration. A professional service helps prevent potential faults before they become costly problems and maintains the manufacturer’s warranty. The service intervals for most electric cars in the UK are either time-based (typically once a year) or mileage-based (usually around every 10,000 to 18,000 miles), depending on whichever comes first.

How Servicing Differs Between Electric and Petrol Cars

The biggest difference between servicing an electric car and a petrol or diesel car lies in the number of moving parts. A traditional internal combustion engine has hundreds of components that require lubrication, fuel, cooling and exhaust management. In contrast, an electric motor typically contains fewer than 20 moving parts. There are no spark plugs, fuel filters, timing belts or oil changes to worry about.

Electric cars also use regenerative braking, which converts energy back into the battery when slowing down. This system dramatically reduces brake wear, meaning brake pads and discs last much longer. Gearboxes in EVs are far simpler too, often consisting of a single-speed transmission rather than complex multi-gear systems that require regular fluid changes.

However, while the motor and drivetrain are low-maintenance, the rest of the car still requires attention. Tyres wear out just like on any vehicle, and because EVs are heavier due to their batteries, they can wear tyres faster if not properly maintained. Suspension and steering systems also need regular checks to ensure they handle the extra weight correctly.

What’s Included in an Electric Car Service

An electric car service focuses on inspecting components that are critical to performance and safety, as well as checking the battery and software systems. A typical service in the UK might include:

Inspection of brakes and brake fluid, tyre tread and pressure checks, suspension and steering checks, coolant levels, cabin air filter replacement, windscreen wipers and washer fluid top-up, lighting and indicator functionality, and diagnostic tests using specialist EV software.

The technician will also examine the high-voltage battery system and associated wiring for signs of damage or wear. Although the battery itself is sealed and requires no maintenance, its cooling system must remain in good condition. Battery performance data may be recorded during each service, helping track long-term health and capacity.

Battery and Electrical System Checks

The high-voltage battery is the most valuable and sensitive part of any electric vehicle. During servicing, technicians use manufacturer-approved diagnostic equipment to monitor voltage, temperature and charge balance across the cells. This process ensures that the battery is operating safely and efficiently. Any signs of imbalance or deterioration can be identified early before they cause noticeable range loss.

In addition to the main traction battery, the smaller 12-volt battery also requires attention. It powers essential systems such as alarms, locks and infotainment when the car is off. Because the 12-volt system in EVs can discharge faster due to frequent accessory use, it is usually checked and tested at every service. If weak, it may be replaced just like in a conventional car.

The Importance of Software Updates and Diagnostics

One of the most distinctive aspects of EV servicing is the role of software. Unlike older cars that rely solely on mechanical tuning, electric cars depend heavily on integrated computer systems. Many manufacturers release software updates to improve efficiency, add new features, or fix bugs. Regular servicing ensures these updates are installed correctly.

A diagnostic scan is usually performed during servicing to detect any stored fault codes, sensor issues or irregularities in the car’s systems. This allows technicians to correct minor problems early, preventing them from developing into expensive repairs. In some cases, updates can even improve performance or extend range by optimising how the vehicle’s battery and motors work together.

Cooling Systems and Thermal Management

Even though electric cars do not have combustion engines, they still generate heat—particularly in the battery, inverter and motor. To keep everything operating within safe temperature limits, most EVs use a liquid cooling system. The coolant helps regulate temperature during driving and charging, and over time, this fluid can degrade. Manufacturers usually recommend replacing the coolant every four to five years, depending on the make and model.

Thermal management is essential to maintain battery health. If the cooling system becomes blocked or the coolant level falls too low, it can cause overheating during charging or driving. A service appointment ensures that the coolant circuit is inspected for leaks, and that pumps, hoses and fans are working correctly.

Brake and Tyre Maintenance in EVs

While regenerative braking reduces wear, EVs still rely on mechanical brakes for emergency stops and at low speeds. Because they are used less frequently, brake components can sometimes corrode or seize. Servicing ensures they are cleaned, lubricated and checked for corrosion. Brake fluid should also be replaced every two years to maintain optimal performance.

Tyres are another critical focus area. Electric cars deliver instant torque, which can lead to faster wear if driven aggressively. The additional weight of the battery also increases load on the tyres. During servicing, technicians check tread depth, wear pattern and pressure. Proper inflation not only improves safety but also helps maximise driving range.

Servicing Costs for Electric Cars in the UK

One of the major advantages of owning an electric car is reduced servicing costs. According to UK industry data, EV servicing can cost 30 to 50 percent less than servicing a petrol or diesel equivalent. This is primarily due to the reduced number of components that need attention and the absence of oil and exhaust systems.

For example, a typical annual service for a mid-range electric car may cost between £100 and £250, depending on the manufacturer and location. Premium models may be slightly higher, particularly if they require specialised diagnostic equipment or coolant replacement. By comparison, a full service for a petrol vehicle could easily exceed £300 to £400 once oil, filters and spark plugs are factored in.

Most manufacturers also include fixed-price servicing plans for EVs, covering the first few years of ownership. This makes budgeting easier and ensures the car is maintained according to factory standards.

Servicing Regulations and Warranty Requirements

In the UK, there are no special legal requirements for EV servicing beyond the general MOT test, which applies to all vehicles over three years old. However, to maintain manufacturer warranties, servicing must be performed by qualified technicians using approved methods. Many garages now employ staff trained in high-voltage systems accredited by organisations such as the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI).

Failing to follow the correct servicing schedule or using unauthorised repairers could invalidate parts of your warranty, especially the battery and drivetrain coverage. Most EVs come with battery warranties lasting eight years or around 100,000 miles, provided the vehicle is properly maintained. Keeping a full service history not only preserves warranty coverage but also enhances resale value.

What EV Owners Can Do Between Services

While professional servicing is essential, there are a few simple checks drivers can perform themselves between visits to the garage. These include monitoring tyre pressure regularly, topping up washer fluid, and inspecting the windscreen wipers and lights. Most EVs display battery health and software alerts directly on the dashboard or companion app, making it easy to spot potential issues early.

Drivers should also avoid allowing the high-voltage battery to remain at full charge or very low charge for extended periods, as this can shorten its lifespan. Regular use and moderate charging habits help keep the battery healthy. Ensuring the charging cable and plug remain clean and undamaged will also prevent electrical faults over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do electric cars still need servicing?

Yes. Although they require less maintenance than petrol or diesel cars, electric vehicles still need annual servicing to ensure safety and efficiency.

What maintenance does an EV need?

Brakes, tyres, suspension, and coolant systems all require checks. Software updates and diagnostic scans are also part of regular maintenance.

Do EVs need oil changes?

No. Electric cars have no engine oil or exhaust, so they do not need oil changes or emissions servicing.

How often should I service an electric car?

Most EVs need servicing once a year or every 10,000 to 18,000 miles, depending on manufacturer guidelines.

Are electric car services cheaper?

Yes. On average, servicing an electric vehicle in the UK costs 30 to 50 percent less than a petrol or diesel equivalent.

Conclusion

Electric cars may not have engines in the traditional sense, but they still require regular servicing to remain safe, efficient and reliable. Servicing ensures that critical components like brakes, tyres, cooling systems and electrical systems function as intended. It also keeps software up to date and helps maintain battery health, both of which are crucial for long-term performance.

For UK drivers, the good news is that EV servicing is simpler and cheaper than traditional car maintenance, with fewer parts to replace and lower running costs overall. By following manufacturer recommendations and using qualified technicians, owners can enjoy years of smooth, quiet and dependable driving. Electric cars might be cleaner and smarter, but regular maintenance remains the key to keeping them performing at their best for the long haul.