An electric car requires significantly less maintenance than a petrol or diesel car. Because an electric motor has far fewer moving parts than a combustion engine, many traditional service items simply no longer apply — no oil changes, no timing belt, and no exhaust maintenance. That said, it doesn’t mean you’ll never need to visit a garage. Below, we answer the most frequently asked questions about maintaining electric cars.
What are the biggest maintenance differences between an electric car and a petrol car?
The biggest difference is that an electric car has no combustion engine, which means an entire range of maintenance items simply disappears. No oil changes, no spark plugs, no timing belt, no exhaust system, and no clutch plate on fully electric models. That adds up to significant savings on your maintenance bill over the years.
What remains is the upkeep of systems shared by both types of vehicles:
- Brakes (though these wear more slowly on electric cars due to regenerative braking)
- Tires (which actually wear slightly faster due to the added weight of the battery)
- Windshield washer fluid and wipers
- Coolant for the battery’s thermal management system
- Cabin air filter
- Brake system, including brake fluid
In short: driving electric means less maintenance, but it certainly doesn’t mean no maintenance at all.
How often does an electric car need to go to the garage?
Most manufacturers recommend a service interval of once a year or every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers for an electric car, whichever comes first. This is comparable to a petrol car, but the service itself is considerably less extensive and therefore quicker to complete.
During such a service, the technician checks items including the brakes, tires, fluid levels, lighting, and the high-voltage system. Some manufacturers, such as Renault, also prescribe periodic inspections of the battery and charging system. It’s a good idea to consult your own manufacturer’s schedule, as intervals vary by make and model.
Want to know exactly which services your electric car needs? Visit our repairs and maintenance page for more information.
Does an electric car also need an MOT?
Yes, an electric car is legally required to undergo an MOT inspection, just like any other vehicle. The intervals are the same as for a petrol car: the first MOT after four years, then annually. Diesel cars are subject to stricter rules (after three years), but electric vehicles follow the same schedule as petrol cars.
During the MOT, the electric car’s high-voltage system is also assessed. The inspection authority checks whether the battery housing is intact, whether there are any dangerous leaks, and whether the vehicle is safe for use on public roads. This makes the MOT for an electric car technically somewhat more specialized, but the process itself is exactly the same for the driver.
How much 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 comparable petrol car. An annual service for an electric vehicle typically costs between €150 and €350, depending on the make, model, and exactly what needs to be checked or replaced.
By comparison, a minor service for a petrol car usually runs between €250 and €400, and a major service between €400 and €900. The elimination of oil changes and associated filters makes a clear difference. However, tires on electric cars may need replacing slightly more often due to the extra weight of the battery pack, which partially offsets those savings.
When does the battery in an electric car need to be replaced?
Most electric car batteries last 10 to 15 years, or 150,000 to 300,000 kilometers, depending on usage and battery quality. Over time, the charging capacity gradually decreases, but that doesn’t mean the battery will suddenly stop working.
Manufacturers typically offer a warranty of 8 years or 160,000 kilometers on the battery, guaranteeing that capacity will not drop below a certain percentage — often 70 percent. If capacity declines more rapidly, it falls under warranty.
You’ll notice your battery needs replacing when your range is noticeably shorter than it was when you bought the car. A battery health diagnostic will give you a definitive answer. Bear in mind that battery replacement is still a significant expense at present, though prices are steadily falling.
Can any garage service an electric car?
No, not every garage is equipped and certified to work on electric vehicles. High-voltage systems require specific training, safety protocols, and specialized tools. Technicians must be demonstrably qualified to work safely with high voltages. A general garage without those qualifications is simply not permitted to carry out certain work on electric cars.
When choosing a garage for your electric car, look for:
- Certified technicians qualified to work on high-voltage systems
- Up-to-date diagnostic software compatible with your make and model
- Experience with electric and hybrid drivetrains
- Clear communication about what is being done and why
If you’re unsure, simply ask whether the garage holds the appropriate certification. An honest garage will give you a straight answer.
How Autobedrijven Verdonk helps with electric car maintenance
At Autobedrijven Verdonk, we are specifically trained and equipped for the maintenance and servicing of hybrid and electric vehicles. We advise you on charging capacity, battery condition, regenerative braking, and the specific maintenance intervals that apply to your electric car. Whether you drive a Renault Zoé, a Peugeot e-208, or any other electric vehicle, you’ve come to the right place.
What we offer for your electric car:
- MOT inspections for electric vehicles
- Annual services including high-voltage system checks
- Battery health and charging system diagnostics
- Tire service via Tyres-on to find the right tires for your driving style and your EV’s weight
- Honest, transparent pricing with no surprises afterward
Autobedrijven Verdonk also carries out maintenance and repairs for all other car brands.
Would you like to have your electric car serviced, or do you have questions about exactly what your car needs? Feel free to contact us or stop by in Veldhoven. Get in touch and we’ll be happy to help. Want to find out more about who we are first? Read more about our history.