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It costs between $200 and $400 per year to maintain an electric car, which is significantly lower than the cost of maintaining a petrol or diesel car. Since electric cars have no spark plugs, fuel systems, or other parts that wear out frequently, they are easier to maintain and cheaper in the long run.
![How Much Does it Cost to Service an Electric Car [2025]](https://servicetasker.com.au/storage/2023/12/1703913263.jpg)
The average cost to service an electric car typically ranges from $200 to $400, but many first-time EV buyers overlook hidden maintenance expenses. While EVs have fewer moving parts and no oil changes, you may still face costs for battery coolant flushes, software diagnostics, tyre rotations, brake fluid replacements, and periodic battery health checks. Some premium models may also require specialised technician servicing, which can raise costs.
In regions with fewer EV service centres, prices can vary significantly. Understanding the true cost to service an electric car, including unexpected repair costs, charging port servicing, and scheduled inspections, is essential for long-term budgeting. Always check your EV manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and compare EV servicing packages before purchase to avoid surprises.
A study among Australian Tesla owners by the Electric Vehicle Council revealed that 41% of respondents estimated saving more than $1,000 annually on maintenance, with 7% pocketing over $2,000 in savings.
So, while EVs may demand a bit more for certain high-tech components, the simplicity of their design and the absence of traditional engine complexities make electric cars not just eco-friendly but also wallet-friendly in the maintenance department. Don't worry about the electric car service cost. Transitioning to an electric vehicle not only helps in the pursuit of a cleaner energy future but also ensures significant savings in the long run.
Car maintenance involves regular, scheduled tasks to keep your vehicle in good shape, such as routine oil changes. It's the plan to maintain your car in top condition. On the flip side, car service is when you address specific issues outside your regular schedule, fixing unexpected problems. Local EV charger installers can also assist with integrating advanced charging systems during maintenance or service.
People often use "maintenance" and "service" interchangeably, but there's a slight difference. Maintenance follows a set schedule, ensuring your car runs smoothly. Service is the extra attention your car needs for unexpected hiccups, keeping it running without surprises. In short, maintenance is like a routine checkup, while service is the cure for unforeseen issues.
If you're diving into the world of electric vehicles (EVs), understanding service costs is key. Here's a snapshot of annual service expenses for various EV models:
Explore this quick guide to plan your EV's maintenance and keep those wheels turning smoothly.
The secret behind the remarkably lower service costs of electric vehicles (EVs) lies in their streamlined design. Traditional cars, powered by internal combustion engines (ICE), require various components like oil filters, fuel filters, and air filters, contributing to significant maintenance expenses. Thomas Wacker, Kia Australia's general manager of service, highlights the costliness of these components, especially the oil, which can be expensive per litre.
EVs, in contrast, simplify the maintenance game by eliminating complex engine parts, belts, chains, and pipes. Without the need for oil changes and intricate filters, the workload for technicians decreases substantially, reducing both material and labour costs. Kia, showcasing a range from naturally aspirated petrol to pure EVs, serves as a striking example of the maintenance cost divergence.
To illustrate, let's compare the costs over seven years and 105,000 kilometres for the Kia Niro Hybrid and EV with the Seltos compact SUV, a conventional ICE model in Kia's lineup. The comparison reflects the 12-month/15,000km service intervals for both Niros and the 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated Seltos. Notably, the difference in service intervals becomes even more pronounced when considering the 1.6-litre turbo-petrol Seltos, with shorter service intervals and potentially higher costs over time.
The cost-effectiveness of maintaining EVs stems from their simpler mechanics and reduced need for extensive labour hours. As the automotive landscape shifts toward electric mobility, the financial benefits of choosing an EV extend beyond the environmental perks, making it a smart and economical choice in the long run. So, how much does an electric car service costs is not of much concern.
The absence of these traditional ICE components translates into significant long-term savings for EV owners. In a nutshell, choosing an EV not only contributes to a greener planet but also ensures a lighter load on your wallet when it comes to maintenance.
When it comes to electric vehicle (EV) servicing costs, several factors play a crucial role:
Just like traditional gas-powered cars, the make and model of an EV impacts maintenance expenses. Luxury EVs from brands like Porsche and Audi may incur higher servicing costs compared to smaller, consumer-friendly models.
EVs represent a newer technology compared to conventional internal combustion engine cars. Unfortunately, this novelty contributes to overall service costs. Repair shops must invest in specialised facilities, and mechanics need additional training to handle the advanced technology present in EVs, which differs from the skills a traditional Auto Electrician would use for standard vehicles.
Electric vehicles come packed with sensors, driver assistance systems, and other advanced technologies that tend to be pricier to replace when broken. While conventional cars also require Car Electrical Repair Services for jobs like an Alternator Replacement, repairing the sophisticated components in an EV can significantly raise servicing costs.
The battery stands out as one of the most critical components of an electric car. While a standard Car Battery Replacement is a relatively affordable and frequent task for combustion engines, the cost of a new EV battery can range from $2,000 to $12,000. On the other hand, EV owners avoid costs associated with parts like spark plugs or a Glow Plug Replacement in diesel models. Thankfully, manufacturers often provide warranties ranging from eight to 10 years or up to 160,000 kilometres, offering reassurance to EV owners.
Costs of various services and materials in this cost guide should be taken as estimates. These depend on location, preference and demands in the market.
Yes, electric cars typically cost less to service since they don’t require oil changes, spark plug replacements, or timing belt adjustments. However, you will still need tyre rotations, brake fluid replacements, cabin air filter changes, and software updates. The cost to service an electric car annually is about $200–$400, depending on the model and location.
No, battery replacement is a separate cost and typically only needed after 8–10 years. Most batteries come with long warranties (up to 8 years or 160,000 km). Still, it’s good to monitor battery health as part of your regular EV servicing schedule.
![How Much Does it Cost to Replace an Alternator? [2025]](https://servicetasker.com.au/storage/2023/12/1703914587.jpg)
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