Experts often emphasize the easy maintenance of electric vehicles (EVs), and for good reason. However, this doesn’t mean they’re immune to damage or wear. Here’s a look at how EV maintenance differs from that of gasoline-powered vehicles.
The components
Traditional gasoline-powered cars have several components that don’t exist in electric vehicles, like spark plugs, a fuel tank and an exhaust system. Fewer components typically mean less maintenance. According to one study, owning an electric vehicle can save you around $500 per year based on an average of 20,000 kilometres driven.
Problem areas
Electric vehicles tend to be heavier than gasoline-powered cars. This added weight puts more stress on their suspension and steering systems, which often require special attention during annual maintenance.
Additionally, the regenerative braking system in EVs means that the brake pedal is used less frequently, causing the brake pads to wear more slowly. However, this can increase the risk of rust developing on the pads. For this reason, it’s best to have a mechanic conduct regular inspections.
Finally, while gasoline-powered cars may have a few extra expenses, poor maintenance of an electric vehicle can lead to significantly higher repair costs.
