Yes, the brakes on an electric car do indeed wear out less quickly than those on a gasoline or diesel car. This is due to the regenerative braking system that recovers energy during braking. As a result, the traditional brake pads and discs are used much less. However, electric cars still need regular brake maintenance, as not all brake components experience less wear.
How does regenerative braking work in electric cars?
Regenerative braking uses the electric motor as a generator to brake the car while recovering energy for the battery. When you release the accelerator pedal or brake lightly, the motor runs in reverse and generates electricity. This energy goes back to the battery instead of being lost as heat.
This system differs fundamentally from traditional braking. In conventional cars, brake pads are pressed against brake discs, creating friction that slows the car down. This friction causes wear and heat that is lost. Regenerative braking, on the other hand, uses the kinetic energy of the moving car to generate electricity.
Most electric cars combine both systems. During light braking, regenerative braking does most of the work. Only during harder braking or emergency stops do the traditional brakes come into play. This explains why the conventional brake components are used much less.
Which brake components wear out and which don’t in an electric car?
Brake pads and brake discs wear approximately 50–70% less in electric cars than in traditional cars due to regenerative braking. Other brake components, such as brake fluid, brake hoses, and handbrake cables, however, experience the same wear as in conventional cars.
| Brake Component | Electric Car | Gasoline/Diesel Car |
|---|---|---|
| Brake Pads | Much less wear | Normal wear |
| Brake Discs | Much less wear | Normal wear |
| Brake Fluid | Same replacement needed | Normal replacement |
| Brake Hoses | Same wear | Normal wear |
| Handbrake | Same maintenance | Normal maintenance |
What you should watch out for is that brake discs can start to rust due to infrequent use. If the traditional brakes are not used regularly, they can seize up or corrode. Therefore, many manufacturers recommend occasionally braking harder deliberately to keep the brake discs clean.
It’s important to know that car maintenance for electric vehicles requires specific knowledge of both systems.
When should you have the brakes of an electric car checked?
Have the brakes of your electric car checked during regular maintenance or during the MOT inspection. Also, if you hear squeaking sounds, feel vibrations during braking, or if the braking distance becomes longer, inspection is needed. Despite the reduced wear, regular inspection remains important.
Watch for these signals that indicate brake maintenance is needed:
- Squeaking or grinding sounds during braking
- Vibrations in the steering wheel or brake pedal
- Longer braking distance than normal
- Brake pedal feels spongy
- Car pulls to one side during braking
Brake fluid must still be replaced every two years, regardless of the type of car. This fluid attracts moisture from the air, which can affect the operation of the brake system. Even with electric cars, this maintenance remains necessary because the hydraulic system works in the same way.
Many electric cars also have a warning light that indicates when the brake pads are getting thin. However, don’t rely on this blindly and have your car regularly checked by a qualified garage.
How Autobedrijf Verdonk helps with brake maintenance of electric cars
We have built up specific expertise for maintenance on hybrid and electric cars, including the particulars of regenerative braking systems. Our mechanics are trained to maintain both traditional and electric braking systems and can advise you on the correct maintenance intervals.
Our services for electric cars include:
- Complete brake inspection, adapted to electric vehicles
- Advice on regenerative braking and optimal use
- Inspection of brake fluid and hydraulic systems
- Diagnosis of both traditional and electronic brake components
- Transparent explanation of what is and isn’t necessary
We work with all brands of electric cars and understand that each brand has its own specifications. Whether you drive a Renault ZOE, Tesla, or other electric car, we can help you with reliable maintenance at fair prices.
Autobedrijf Verdonk also performs maintenance and repairs for all other car brands.
Would you like to have your car prepared for winter or do you have questions about maintenance? Feel free to contact us or visit us in Veldhoven. Read more about our history or contact us for personal advice about maintaining your electric car.