Do EVs Use Oil?
No, electric vehicles (EVs) do not use any engine oil. An internal combustion engine (ICE) is much more complicated than an electric motor and it has hundreds of moving parts to operate, which require lubrication using oil. Electric motors do not need oil to maintain proper operating temperatures.
Generally, electric cars need less regular maintenance than an ICE car would.
Why Don’t Electric Cars Use Oil?
Electric powertrains are much simpler than those found in gas-powered cars. The major components of an EV powertrain are an electric motor (or motors, depending on the model), a transmission, a battery pack, and a cooling system for the battery. Electric motors convert electrical energy into mechanical energy and are very simple assemblies with very few moving parts.
An internal combustion engine (ICE) is much more complicated and will have hundreds of moving parts to operate (like pistons, valves, and crankshafts), which require lubrication. EVs have none of these, so they don’t require motor oil for lubrication. This also means that EVs do not need regular oil changes; on the whole, EV maintenance is much simpler.
Electric cars are very well suited for daily commutes. Operating costs tend to be much lower than for a gasoline-powered car, which helps make up for the higher purchase prices. The simpler drivetrain of an EV results in less maintenance, and being able to regularly recharge at home can save a significant amount of money on fuel.
Additionally, because there aren’t any combustion cycles happening under the hood, electric motors are very quiet and very smooth. That, combined with immediate response and smooth power delivery, makes EVs generally very well-behaved on the road.
Electric Car Maintenance
Even though electric cars require less maintenance than ICE vehicles, they are not maintenance-free. We recommend you consult your owner’s manual to find the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for the most accurate information.
Maintenance EVs Need:
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Coolant: On most EVs, the coolant systems used for the batteries will require a coolant change. The battery packs are some of the most complex systems in an EV. Controlling the heat is critical for the life and health of the battery; overheating can be very dangerous for a lithium battery.
The battery coolant does need to be changed, much like the coolant in an ICE-powered vehicle. Because it is a sealed system, the interval is much longer–up to 150,000 miles for some manufacturers. Other automakers, like Tesla, require zero maintenance for their cooling systems.
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Transmission Fluid: The transmissions used in EVs are also much simpler than those found in ICE cars. Electric motors are quite powerful and can produce 100% of their power from idle. Because of this power delivery, most EVs use a single-speed gearbox, only requiring one forward gear and one reverse gear.
Transmission fluid still needs to be changed according to manufacturer recommendations. Intervals tend to be pretty long, ranging anywhere from 80,000 to 120,000 miles.
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Brake Systems: EV braking systems are almost identical to those of a conventional ICE vehicle. Brake fluid needs to be changed every few years as it absorbs water over time, reducing performance.
Other parts of the braking system, like the brake pads or rotors, will need to be replaced as they wear. Because an EV regularly uses a regenerative braking system through its electric motor to decelerate, braking components last much longer.
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Tires: Finally, tires are a wear item that need to be replaced with use and/or age just like on a traditional vehicle. There is an additional concern with EVs based on the mass of the car. Electric powertrains — EV batteries in particular — are quite heavy and will require tires with heavier-duty load ratings.
This additional weight also increases tire wear, reducing life. Another factor is the power of the electric motors: Electric motors can produce a lot of torque, which can affect tire life if owners like to experience this electric acceleration.
It is important to note that tires on electric vehicles can have a significant impact on your driving range. Most EVs come standard with low-rolling-resistance tires to maximize range, which can add some cost.
Costs and Savings of EVs vs Gas Vehicles
Studies show substantial savings in maintenance costs for electric vehicles. According to the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, the estimated scheduled maintenance cost of an EV totals 6.1 cents per mile, compared to 10.1 cents per mile for a conventional ICE vehicle.
Considering the average American drives about 14,000 miles per year, driving an EV can save $560 per year in maintenance. Add in the savings on fuel costs and the time saved with lower maintenance requirements, and EVs can be quite appealing.
As EVs become more common, finding a reliable place to service your car will become easier. Most mechanics are used to working on traditional gas cars, and while EVs are simpler, they do use a significantly different drivetrain. Manufacturers are starting to offer maintenance packages for EVs, but care does need to be taken if your car does not require a traditional oil change.
Even though EVs are more expensive to buy, lower operating costs help to offset the purchase price. Buyers interested in lightly used EVs can save even more. EVs have been depreciatingly rapidly, and great deals can be had on the used market.
