Pondering purchasing an electric car?
Anxious about hidden costs? Fear not! This article will explain the consumables used by electric cars and the associated costs. Then you can make an educated choice. You're now one step nearer to a zero-emission drive experience!
EVs use fewer consumables than ICE cars
Electric vehicles (EVs) need fewer consumables than internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. This means that EV owners can save on maintenance costs in the long-term. EV's don't require drive belts, spark plugs, pumps, brake fluid, or oil. Plus, they don't need an alternator, clutch, muffler, or exhaust parts. These benefits result in lower costs while driving an electric car.
The table below shows a comparison of (just some of) the consumables between EVs and ICE cars:
Consumables | Electric Vehicles | Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles |
Drive Belts | Not required | Required |
Spark Plugs | Not required | Required |
Pumps | Not required | Required |
Brake Fluid | Less often required | Required |
Oil | Not required | Required |
Alternator | Not required | Required |
Clutch | Not required | Required |
Muffler | Not required | Required |
Exhaust Parts | Not required | Required |
It's important to note that these are just a few examples of consumables EV's don't need. Switching to an electric car not only helps the environment, but also brings financial savings due to less traditional car maintenance.
This transition shows a big change in automotive history. Instead of relying on complex systems that need to be replaced and serviced often, electric vehicles offer a simpler, more cost-effective approach to vehicle maintenance.
What maintenance does an electric car need?
Electric Vehicle upkeep is much different to that of a regular combustion engine car. Here's what you've must know about taking care of an EV.
- Brake Maintenance: Brake system inspections must be done regularly, just like any other car. However, due to smoother power delivery and regenerative braking, you will find brake pads have a far longer life in an EV.
- Tire Care: Rotation and inflation checks are a must for optimal performance and efficiency.
- Wiper Blade Replacement: Electric cars also need wiper blade replacements every now and then for clear visibility in bad weather.
Electric cars don't need the oil changes or other engine maintenance that traditional vehicles do.
Fun Fact: According to the NREL, electric cars cost less than half as much as gasoline-powered cars in terms of maintenance!
Does an electric vehicle battery require maintenance?
Electric vehicle batteries usually don't require maintenance. The motor, charging capacity, and battery life are important aspects to consider. Manufacturers generally offer warranties lasting eight years or up to 160,000 or 100,000 miles. These warranties cover any big reduction in charging capacity during this time.
Battery maintenance is a major concern when considering electric vehicles. People often ask if these batteries need regular attention and what's needed for their longevity. Unlike traditional vehicles that require extensive upkeep of their engines and fuel systems, electric vehicle batteries generally don't need much. The key factor in an electric vehicle battery's lifespan is its charging capacity. Over time, a battery's ability to hold a charge can reduce due to general use. This usually happens slowly and over a long period.
Manufacturers know this, so they offer warranties that cover any major loss of charging capacity for a given duration. Some manufacturers even offer extended warranties. This means if an electric vehicle has major degradation in its charging capacity within the warranty period, the manufacturer will repair or replace the battery without the owner having to pay. It is possible to replace battery cells or modules without necessitating the replacement of an entire EV battery.
Who should carry out the maintenance of an electric vehicle?
Electric vehicles need regular upkeep and servicing to keep them running optimally and for a long time. Skilled professionals who understand these advanced vehicles must be trusted with their maintenance. They know the ins and outs, the components and systems, and can detect and fix any issues. Manufacturers also offer special packages for keeping electric vehicles in good condition.
Routine maintenance tasks like changing tires, brake pads, wipers, and cabin air filters are key. Battery care is essential for performance and lifespan. Professional mechanics who know electric vehicles can perform these jobs correctly.
Specific needs of electric vehicles are a special consideration. This could include motor lubrication checks or software updates. Professional help makes sure these needs are met without compromising performance or safety.
Pro Tip: Choose authorized dealerships or certified technicians who have been trained to handle electric vehicles (and their high-voltage conditions) when looking for a service provider.
What needs servicing on an electric car?
An electric car needs to be serviced regularly for optimal performance and a longer life. One must take care of components prone to wear, like tires, brakes and coolant system.
Tires need to be inspected for wear and the right inflation. This keeps the car safe and efficient.
Brakes too require regular servicing. Though electric cars use regenerative braking, this doesn't mean there is no wear on brake pads. Replacement is likely to be less often.
The coolant system also needs attention. It helps regulate the temperature of the battery pack and motor, preventing overheating. Check and replace the coolant for top efficiency.
Besides these components, maintain the car like any other vehicle. Check wiper blades and top up fluids.
For best results, maintain service intervals as recommended by the manufacturer and consult an expert for any servicing needs.
Regular servicing ensures reliable performance and a longer life for your electric car.
How often do electric cars need servicing?
Electric Car Servicing: Frequency and Importance
Servicing an electric car is vital for optimal performance and durability. Just as with any other vehicle, electric cars need regular maintenance to keep them in top form. Here's how often electric cars should be serviced:
- Service Intervals: Electric vehicles usually require servicing at intervals specified by the maker. These intervals may vary, but usually range from every 10,000 to 20,000 miles (or every one to two years).
- Battery Life: An essential component of an electric car is its battery. Regular servicing ensures the battery performs optimally and helps extend its lifespan.
- Warranty Requirements: To maintain the warranty on your electric car, you must adhere to the manufacturer's recommended service schedule. This safeguards your investment and avoids potential problems.
- Additional Checks: Besides routine maintenance, servicers may look over other important components such as brakes, tires, and windshield wipers to ensure safe and efficient operation.
Some car makers offer a service plan specifically for EVs. These plans lower maintenance costs and provide peace of mind for EV owners.
Regular servicing also helps detect minor issues before they become major problems. Addressing these issues promptly saves time and money in the long run.
Survey by AAA: The annual maintenance cost for an electric car is at least 6% lower than that of a similar petrol or diesel car and often markedly less.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What type of batteries do electric cars use?
Electric cars use lithium-ion batteries to power their vehicles. These batteries are designed to last for the life of the car, but they will eventually need to be replaced, recycled or repurposed. The technology exists now to recycle 99+% of a battery.
2. How often do I need to replace the battery on my electric car?
The lifespan of an electric car battery can vary depending on several factors such as the model of the car, how often it's charged, and how aggressively it's driven. Batteries are made up of modules which are made up of cells. Entire batteries are less likely to need replacement than cells or modules. This would be considered maintenance of your vehicle rather than battery replacement.
3. What do I need to replace in an electric car?
Electric cars require less maintenance than traditional gas-powered cars, but they still require some consumables to be replaced, such as tires, brake pads, and windshield wipers. If you happen to drive your car past its battery’s lifespan, which could be over 20 years, then that battery could be replaced, and recycled or repurposed.
4. Can I replace the battery on my electric car myself?
The only battery you would be able to replace yourself is the 12-Volt battery. It runs the ancillary functions in your car when it is not driving, and powers up the system so that your traction battery can begin powering the car’s drive train. If you need maintenance, repair or replacement of your electric car battery, you would employ a certified technician to avoid damaging your car's electronics.
5. What type of charging cable does an electric car use?
Charging cables vary depending on the type of charging, whether you charge with AC chargers (always at home and also certain public chargers) or DC chargers (the fast ones) and the type of car. These charging cables can be purchased from various vendors online or at local auto parts stores.