Some drivers are joining the clean energy movement and purchasing electric vehicles (EVs). Many simply prefer using electricity instead of gas to power their ride. Based on fuel costs alone, a 2018 study found that EVs cost less than half as much to operate as gas-powered vehicles. In addition, EVs are several times more efficient in converting energy into vehicle motion than gas or diesel-powered models.
Let’s explore some of the vehicle systems to see how electric vehicle maintenance compares to that of gas-powered vehicles.
Engine Maintenance & Fluids
Electric motors have fewer parts and require less maintenance than internal combustion engines.
You do not need to change the oil, transmission fluid, spark plugs, fuel filters, or drive belts with an EV. This can result in significant savings, especially as cars age.
Electric motors do, however, require brake fluid and should be serviced regularly.
Brakes
EVs and hybrid vehicles have regenerative braking capabilities. This means that the kinetic energy from the car is transferred to charging the vehicle’s battery.
The braking system in EVs typically lasts longer because it is gentler on the brake pads. According to some sources, the brake system on EVs and hybrids need to be replaced half or even a third of the frequency of a gas-powered vehicle’s brake system.
Energy Storage
Instead of a gas tank for storing fuel, EVs have a large lithium-ion battery to store the energy that powers the motor. When an EV battery is in decline, it offers a reduced vehicle range.
The manufacturing of these batteries is expensive and has a major environmental impact. So, it’s important to know how to extend battery life as long as possible. Avoid leaving the vehicle for long periods with little or no charge, and park the vehicle in a cool location outside of direct sunlight when you can.
Most EV manufacturers offer an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on the battery. Some automakers offer extended warranties on the batteries. California requires a 10-year/150,00-mile warranty for EV batteries.
The battery replacement costs vary by the automaker when it isn’t under warranty. A Nissan Leaf battery costs around $5,500 plus a few hours of labor to install after a $1,000 credit for turning in the old battery pack, which is mandatory.
Some EV drivers prefer to lease cars or sell them before the battery needs to be replaced to avoid purchasing a replacement battery.
Electric Vehicle Maintenance
Despite requiring little maintenance compared to gas-powered cars, EVs do still require regular maintenance, particularly for the braking system. And some aspects of vehicle maintenance are nearly identical when comparing EVs and gas-powered cars. Expect similar maintenance requirements for lights, cabin filtration, suspension, tire rotation, body repairs, and windshield wiper blades.
Finding a qualified mechanic for servicing EVs can be tricky if you stray from the dealership. Because the vast majority of auto mechanics are not trained to work on EVs, the availability of qualified mechanics is very limited.
Feature image by Science in HD on Unsplash
This article was originally published on February 11, 2020.