EV Service Guide

Electric vehicles (EVs) are often seen as simpler to run and cheaper to maintain. In many ways, this can be thought of as true. 

With fewer moving parts and lacking an internal combustion engine, servicing on an EV can be lighter in its scope. However, it is very important to keep to a regular servicing schedule.

As with any type of car, EVs still need regular servicing to stay safe and roadworthy. 

As EVs become more common on UK roads, it’s important to understand what makes their maintenance a little different. And what to expect when you book a service.

Do Electric Vehicles Need Servicing?

Yes, EVs need regular servicing. 

While electric cars have fewer parts that can wear out, they're still subject to everyday use: road bumps, heavy braking, climate swings, and all the other realities of driving.

Important systems within the car, like brakes, suspension, tyres, and cabin filters all need routine attention.

Plus, the high-voltage electrical components require regular safety checks.

How Often Should You Service an Electric Car?

Most manufacturers recommend servicing an EV every 12 to 24 months or every 18,000 miles - depending on usage. 

The exact interval will vary by make and model.

That said, if you do a lot of short trips, or your mileage is particularly high, you may benefit from more frequent checks. Especially on the brakes and tyres - which see more wear in city driving.

What’s Included in an EV Service?

An electric car service covers many of the same basics as a conventional car, with a few key differences:

Battery Health Check

At the heart of your EV is its battery. During a service, a technician will run diagnostics to check for capacity loss, voltage stability, and cooling performance. This is non-invasive - it’s done via software, not by physically removing the battery.

High-Voltage Cabling & Charging Port Inspection

Electric cars operate with powerful high-voltage systems, and these components require careful inspection for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. The charging cable and port are also checked - especially important on plug-in models.

Regenerative Braking System

EVs use regenerative braking to recover energy and reduce wear on pads and discs. But traditional braking systems are still there - and they need periodic checks. A service will include brake fluid inspection, pad/disc condition, and any signs of binding.

Coolant Levels

Though there’s no engine, EVs still use coolant - usually to regulate battery and inverter temperatures. These systems are topped up and checked for leaks or low pressure.

Tyres & Suspension

EVs are heavier than ICE vehicles due to their batteries. That extra weight - plus instant torque - can accelerate tyre wear and put more strain on suspension components. So expect your service to include a tyre tread and pressure check, along with an inspection of springs, dampers and alignment.

Wipers, Bulbs, Cabin Filters

These consumables don’t care what powers your car. Like any vehicle, they’re inspected and replaced if needed - no different here.

Electrical Diagnostics

One of the most important checks is a full software diagnostic of the car’s systems. This identifies fault codes or potential issues with charging, power delivery, or component health before they become a problem.

Full Breakdown of EV Servicing at Blackcircles.com

Below is a full breakdown of the EV service schedule that you can expect when booking in your car for a service:

Is EV Servicing Cheaper?

In many cases, yes. A 2023 study found that EV servicing costs can be up to 23% lower than for petrol or diesel cars over three years of ownership.

With fewer fluids, no spark plugs, no timing belts, and less wear on brakes, you’re simply dealing with fewer parts that need replacing.

But - and it’s worth saying - not all EV services are cheaper by default. Specialist knowledge is required for high-voltage components, and that can affect labour rates. The model of your EV, its age, and your mileage will all play a part in the total cost.

Where Should You Get Your EV Serviced?

Any garage that works on electric vehicles should have technicians trained in EV safety and diagnostics. Look for a garage certified to handle high-voltage systems - not every local mechanic will be set up for that.

If your car is still under warranty or part of a finance agreement, check whether servicing must be done at a main dealer. Some plans specify this to maintain cover, especially for the battery.

Otherwise, a trusted independent specialist with EV experience may be a more affordable option - just be sure they use approved parts and follow the manufacturer’s schedule.

EV Car Servicing

Servicing an electric car isn’t just about ticking boxes, it’s about staying safe on the road. EVs may need less attention overall, but they’re still complex machines with their own set of needs.

Whether you’re driving a compact city EV or a long-range family car, staying on top of your service schedule ensures it runs just as efficiently in year five as it did in year one.

If you’re due for a service soon - or just want peace of mind - make sure you choose a qualified technician who knows their way around an EV. It’s a small step that goes a long way.