What does it cost to maintain an EV

What does it cost to maintain an EV

The U.S. household spends nearly one-fifth of its total family expenditures on transportation, so saving costs with an EV can make a big difference for your budget. The upfront cost for purchasing an EV may be higher, but the long term savings go a long way.

EVs don’t have over two-dozen mechanical components that are found in gasoline-powered automobiles. Fewer parts mean fewer service requirements on things like tune-ups, oil changes, cooling system flushes, transmission servicing, and replacing the air filter, spark plugs and drive belts.

Electric vehicle owners spend roughly a third of what conventionally powered auto owners do for regular service.

Here’s a look at the maintenance schedule for the 2019 Chevrolet Bolt EV provided by the website My EV:

Owning an EV still requires periodic service checks on tire rotation, replacing cabin air filters, wiper blades, and washer fluid, much of this comes down to various mechanical inspections.

Much like with traditional gas-powered cars, it’s advisable to check air pressure, top off windshield washer fluid, and change wiper blades.

Monthly (performed by owner):

Check the tire pressure and adjust as necessary. Examine the tires for excess wear. Check the windshield washer fluid and fill as necessary.

Every 7,500 miles:

Have the tires rotated. Check the coolant level for the battery, cabin heater, and the power inverter, accessory power, and charger modules. Visually check for fluid leaks. Inspect the brakes. Visually inspect the steering, suspension, and chassis components for damage. Inspect the power steering, half shafts and drive shafts for excessive wear, leaks, or damage. Check the restraint (airbags) system. Lubricate body components (door locks). Check the accelerator pedal for damage, high effort, or binding and replace if necessary. Visually inspect the gas struts (suspension) for signs of wear, cracks, or other damage. Check the tire sealant expiration date, if equipped (this is used to temporarily seal and inflate a damaged tire).

Twice a year:

Flush corrosive materials (i.e. road salt) from the underbody using plain water.

Every 15,000 miles:

Replace the windshield wiper blades.
Every 36,000 miles:

Replace the cabin air filter (more frequently if necessary).

Every 75,000 miles:

Replace the hood and/or body lift support gas struts.

Every five years:

Drain and fill the vehicle coolant circuits. Replace the brake fluid.

Every seven years:

Have the air conditioning desiccant changed. (it absorbs and holds moisture in a mobile air conditioning system to help prevent corrosion).