A major service for an electric car costs on average between $400 and $900, depending on the make, model, and age of the vehicle. This is generally cheaper than a major service for a gasoline-powered car, because electric cars have fewer wear-prone components. In this article, we explain exactly what a major service involves, what you can expect to pay for annual maintenance, and whether you need to go to a dealership.
What exactly is included in a major service for an electric car?
A major service for an electric car involves a comprehensive inspection and replacement of components that wear out or deteriorate over time. Because an electric car has no combustion engine, several traditional maintenance items no longer apply — but there are also specific checks that are unique to electric vehicles.
A major service for an electric car typically includes the following:
- Brake inspection and replacement if necessary (brakes wear more slowly due to regenerative braking, but still need to be checked)
- Brake fluid replacement (this remains a standard maintenance item, even for electric cars)
- Coolant check (for the battery cooling system)
- Cabin air filter replacement
- Tire inspection for wear, pressure, and alignment
- Battery condition and charging capacity diagnostics
- Software update check
- High-voltage system inspection
- Full fluid and connection check
What you won’t need compared to a gasoline car: no oil change, no timing belt, no spark plugs, and no exhaust system. That saves both time and money. But don’t be mistaken — an electric car has its own specific maintenance requirements that demand specialized knowledge, particularly around the battery and high-voltage system.
How much does a major service for an electric car cost on average?
The average cost of a major service for an electric car ranges between $400 and $900. That’s a wide range, because the price depends heavily on the make, model, and which components need to be replaced. A major service for a compact electric car is generally cheaper than for a premium SUV.
For comparison: the cost of a major service for a gasoline car falls in the same range, but includes an oil change, filter replacement, and sometimes a timing belt. Electric cars don’t have those line items, but labor costs for battery system diagnostics and software updates can partially offset the difference.
Factors that affect the price:
- The make and model of the car
- The age and mileage
- Which components need replacing (brakes, filters, fluids)
- The garage’s hourly labor rate
- Whether software updates or specific diagnostics are required
How does the price differ between a dealership and an independent garage?
At an official dealership, you typically pay more for a major service than at an independent garage. The difference lies in the hourly rate and overhead costs associated with large dealer networks. An independent garage generally charges a lower hourly rate, and the quality of work can be comparable — provided the garage has the right knowledge and equipment for electric vehicles.
That last point matters. Not every independent garage is properly equipped for electric cars. Working on high-voltage systems and performing battery diagnostics requires specialized training and tools. Always ask whether the garage is certified to work on electric vehicles before booking an appointment.
An authorized dealership has the advantage of access to original factory software and brand-specific diagnostic systems. This can be valuable for more complex faults or software updates that need to go through the manufacturer’s network. For standard maintenance and a major service, however, you don’t necessarily need to go that route.
What does it cost to maintain an electric car per year?
The annual maintenance costs for an electric car are on average lower than those for a gasoline or diesel vehicle. Budget for somewhere between $300 and $700 per year, depending on the service interval and the specific needs of your car. Electric cars need to visit the garage less frequently, but the services they do require demand specialized attention.
What you should budget for every year regardless:
- Vehicle inspection (MOT/roadworthiness test): required after 4 years, then annually (applies to electric cars too)
- Minor or major service: depending on the manufacturer’s schedule
- Tires: electric cars are heavier and deliver more torque, causing tires to wear faster
- Brake fluid: typically needs replacing every two years
What you do not pay for annually: oil changes, spark plug replacements, and other engine-related maintenance items. Over the long term, this adds up to significant savings. For more information about what maintenance and repairs involve, visit our website.
Does an electric car need to go to an authorized dealership for servicing?
No, an electric car does not have to go to an authorized dealership for maintenance. As long as the service is carried out according to the manufacturer’s schedule and documented in the service booklet or digital system, your warranty remains fully valid. This also applies if you go to an independent garage that is equipped for electric vehicle servicing.
There are two exceptions where an authorized dealership is the appropriate choice:
- Warranty work: if something fails that is covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, you must go to an authorized dealer for that brand.
- Lease obligations: some lease agreements require that servicing be carried out at an authorized dealership. Check your contract carefully.
For routine maintenance, a major service, or a vehicle inspection for your electric car, you are free to choose where you go. In that case, select a garage that can demonstrably show experience with electric vehicles and has the right equipment and certified technicians.
How Autobedrijf Verdonk helps with your electric car’s maintenance
At Autobedrijven Verdonk, we are specifically trained and equipped for the maintenance and servicing of electric and hybrid vehicles. We advise you on battery condition, charging capacity, and the specific service intervals that come with electric driving — and we do this for all makes, not just Renault.
- Major and minor services for electric cars of all makes
- Vehicle inspections, including for electric vehicles
- Battery system and high-voltage system diagnostics
- Tire advice and tire service through Tyres-on
- Transparent pricing and honest communication — no surprises afterward
- Authorized Renault dealer workshop for warranty and lease servicing
Would you like to have your electric car inspected, or do you have questions about maintenance? Feel free to contact us or visit us in Veldhoven. Get in touch and we’ll be happy to help. Curious about our story? Read more about our history and why we have been a trusted name in the region for over 95 years.
Autobedrijven Verdonk also carries out maintenance and repairs for all other vehicle makes.