Do EVs Require a Service Like Combustion Engines?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are often marketed as “low maintenance” compared to petrol or diesel cars.
While it’s true they don’t require engine oil changes or traditional servicing,
EVs still require regular inspections and maintenance to stay safe, efficient, and reliable.
We’ve started seeing more electric vehicles across Canberra, and one thing is clear —
they are not maintenance-free. Many EV owners assume there’s nothing to service,
but that’s not entirely correct.
🔧 Why EVs Still Need Servicing
Even though EVs run on electric motors instead of internal combustion engines,
they still contain multiple critical systems that require regular checks.
- Battery health monitoring – performance and degradation over time
- Cooling systems – used to regulate battery and power electronics
- Brake systems – still wear, even with regenerative braking
- Suspension & steering – same as any other vehicle
- Software systems – require updates and diagnostics
In other words, EVs remove some servicing items — but not all of them.
🔋 Battery Health Is Critical
The battery is the most expensive and important component in an EV.
While it doesn’t need “replacement” like a regular service item,
it still requires periodic inspection and monitoring.
- State of charge and degradation tracking
- Thermal management system checks
- Cooling fluid condition (in liquid-cooled systems)
- Charging performance diagnostics
Ignoring these checks can lead to reduced driving range, charging issues, or long-term battery damage.
💧 EVs Still Use Fluids
A common misconception is that EVs have “no fluids” — but that’s not true.
- Coolant – used for battery and inverter cooling
- Brake fluid – same as petrol vehicles
- Gear reduction oil – in many EV drivetrains
- Air conditioning refrigerant – for cabin and sometimes battery cooling
These fluids degrade over time and should be inspected or replaced at recommended intervals.
🚗 Real Case in Canberra
We recently inspected an EV in Canberra where the owner assumed no servicing was required.
During the check, we identified:
- Low coolant level in the battery cooling system
- Brake fluid starting to degrade
- Tyre wear due to higher EV weight
After addressing these issues, the vehicle returned to normal operation with improved efficiency and safety.
⚠️ So, Do EVs Need Servicing?
Yes — but it’s different from traditional servicing.
EVs don’t require engine oil changes, but they still need:
- Regular inspections
- Fluid checks
- Battery system monitoring
- Brake and suspension maintenance
Skipping these checks can lead to hidden issues that become expensive over time.
🔧 Need EV Inspection or General Car Service?
If you’re unsure whether your EV needs servicing, we can help.
We provide on-site inspections across Canberra and can check your vehicle’s overall condition.
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📞 Book a Mobile Mechanic in Canberra
Advanced Mobile Autocare provides mobile diagnostics and servicing at your home or workplace.
📱 Call: 0402 047 221
📍 Service Area: Canberra ACT & Queanbeyan NSW
Or request a quote online:
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