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Car Maintenance & Repair Services in Crafers
Let Crafers Auto Service and Repair maintain your vehicle to ensure that you and your family stay safe on the road and enjoy trouble-free motoring.
Read moreWhy EVs Still Need Regular Servicing
Electric vehicles (EVs) have changed the way we drive, but one of the biggest myths surrounding them is that they never need servicing.
While it's true that EVs have fewer moving parts than a petrol or diesel engine, they are still complex vehicles with brakes, suspension, steering, tyres, cooling systems, batteries and electrical components that all require regular inspection and maintenance.
At Crafers Auto Service and Repair, we regularly meet new EV owners in Crafers who are surprised to learn that routine servicing remains an important part of owning an electric vehicle. Keeping your EV maintained helps protect your investment, improves safety and can help identify small issues before they become expensive repairs.
The Biggest EV Myth: "There's Nothing to Service"
Many people assume that because an EV doesn't have spark plugs, engine oil or timing belts, it doesn't require scheduled servicing.
In reality, manufacturers still provide service schedules because many important systems continue to wear over time. Ignoring these inspections can lead to reduced performance, increased repair costs and even affect your vehicle warranty.
Some electric vehicles even have components that many owners don't expect.
Did You Know?
While many EVs don't use traditional engine oil, some electric vehicles—including certain Tesla models—still require oil and filter changes for components such as drive units or reduction gearboxes according to manufacturer specifications. Every manufacturer has different maintenance requirements, making professional servicing essential.
What Still Needs Servicing on an EV?
An electric motor may require very little routine maintenance, but the rest of the vehicle continues working just as hard as any conventional car.
Tyres Wear Faster Than Many Owners Expect
One of the most common maintenance items on an EV is tyre replacement.
Electric vehicles are typically heavier due to the battery pack and produce maximum torque instantly when accelerating. This combination often means tyres can wear more quickly than many drivers realise.
Regular servicing includes checking:
- Tyre tread depth
- Uneven wear patterns
- Correct tyre pressures
- Sidewall damage
- Wheel balance
- Wheel alignment
Many EVs also require tyres specifically designed to handle the additional weight while reducing road noise and improving efficiency.
Brakes Still Need Regular Inspection
People often assume regenerative braking means brake servicing isn't necessary.
While regenerative braking can reduce wear on brake pads, it also means the conventional brakes may be used less frequently. This can allow brake discs to develop corrosion and brake components to seize if they aren't inspected regularly.
Routine servicing helps ensure:
- Brake pads remain within specifications
- Brake discs are free from excessive corrosion
- Brake fluid remains in good condition
- Brake callipers operate correctly
Reliable brakes remain one of the most important safety systems on any vehicle.
Suspension and Steering Continue to Wear
EVs place significant weight on their suspension systems.
Over thousands of kilometres, components such as:
- Shock absorbers
- Control arm bushes
- Ball joints
- Steering components
- Suspension mounts
naturally wear and require inspection.
If ignored, worn suspension can affect handling, tyre life and braking performance.
Battery Cooling Systems Need Attention
The high-voltage battery is the heart of an EV.
To maximise battery life, manufacturers use cooling systems that may include coolant, pumps, hoses and heat exchangers.
These systems require periodic inspection to ensure the battery operates within its designed temperature range, particularly during Australian summers.
A cooling system fault can reduce battery efficiency and, in some cases, limit charging performance.
Cabin Air Filters Still Need Replacing
Even without an engine, your air conditioning system still draws outside air through a cabin filter.
Over time these filters become blocked with:
- Dust
- Pollen
- Leaves
- Dirt
- Mould spores
Replacing the cabin air filter improves air quality and helps your heating and air conditioning system work more efficiently.
12-Volt Batteries Can Still Fail
One surprise for many EV owners is that most electric vehicles still have a conventional 12-volt battery.
This battery powers many of the vehicle's electronics, including computers, lighting, locking systems and accessories.
When the 12-volt battery fails, your EV may not even start despite the high-voltage battery being fully charged.
Routine battery testing helps identify a weakening battery before it leaves you stranded.
Software Updates and Electronic System Checks
Modern EVs rely heavily on sophisticated electronics.
During servicing, technicians can inspect electronic systems, scan for fault codes and identify issues that may not yet trigger a dashboard warning.
Early diagnosis often prevents larger repairs later.
Warning Signs Your EV Needs Attention
Don't ignore these common warning signs:
- Uneven tyre wear
- Increased road noise
- Vibrations while driving
- Suspension knocking noises
- Reduced braking performance
- Warning lights
- Poor air conditioning performance
- Reduced driving range
- Charging taking longer than normal
Having these symptoms checked early can help avoid more costly repairs.
Why Regular EV Servicing Saves Money
Skipping servicing to save money can often have the opposite effect.
Routine inspections allow technicians to identify worn components before they damage surrounding parts.
For example:
- A wheel alignment may significantly extend tyre life.
- Replacing worn suspension bushes early can prevent premature tyre wear.
- Identifying a cooling system issue early may help protect expensive battery components.
Preventative maintenance is generally far less expensive than major repairs.
An Unusual EV Fact
Many people believe regenerative braking means brake pads never wear out.
In reality, one of the more common issues technicians encounter is surface rust on brake discs, particularly on vehicles that rely heavily on regenerative braking. Regular servicing helps ensure the conventional braking system remains in safe working order when you need it most.
FAQ
If my EV doesn't have an engine, why does it still need servicing?
While the electric motor requires less maintenance, your tyres, brakes, suspension, steering, cooling systems, air conditioning, electronics and safety systems all require regular inspection and maintenance.
Can skipping EV servicing affect my warranty?
Yes. Most manufacturers specify scheduled inspections and maintenance requirements. Following the recommended service schedule helps maintain your vehicle according to manufacturer requirements.
Do EV tyres really wear out faster?
Many do. The combination of increased vehicle weight and instant torque can increase tyre wear, making regular inspections and wheel alignments particularly important.
Does regenerative braking mean brake pads never need replacing?
No. Brake pads generally last longer, but the braking system still requires inspection because discs can corrode and moving components can seize if they aren't used regularly.
Is the 12-volt battery important in an EV?
Absolutely. Most EVs rely on a conventional 12-volt battery to operate computers, safety systems and accessories. If it fails, the vehicle may not start even if the main battery is fully charged.
Trust Your Local Adelaide Hills EV Service Specialists
Owning an electric vehicle doesn't mean saying goodbye to servicing—it simply means servicing is different.
Regular inspections help keep your EV safe, reliable and performing as its manufacturer intended while reducing the risk of unexpected repairs.
As an independently owned Repco Authorised Service centre, Crafers Auto Service and Repair has the equipment and expertise to inspect and maintain electric vehicles in accordance with manufacturer recommendations. Whether you're new to EV ownership or it's time for your next scheduled service, our experienced team can help keep your electric vehicle ready for every journey around Crafers and beyond.
Book your next EV service with Crafers Auto Service and Repair and discover that while electric vehicles may have fewer moving parts, they still deserve expert care.
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