Content Guide
Electric car service
Whether you’re new to electric vehicles (EVs) or have had one for years, regular servicing is key to keeping them in good shape. This guide explains what happens during an electric car service and why it’s important to find a good service provider.
What does an EV service include?
With an EV service, mechanics will test various parts of your vehicle's electrical system to ensure they are working properly. During an electric car service, mechanics check key systems to ensure everything is working properly. Electric cars need more focus on battery health and electrical systems than petrol or diesel vehicles. A key part of the service is inspecting high voltage systems across different types of electric car, including BEVs, PHEVs and hybrids. These components require specialist checks to ensure they are safe and performing efficiently.
Types of electric car servicing
An electric car service checks various parts of your vehicle to make sure they work properly. Here are what mechanics usually look at:
- Battery health
Mechanics usually test your battery to make sure it can hold a charge and power your car effectively. - Basic checks
Mechanics will look at your fluid, wipers and actual brake lining to make sure everything is up to standard. - Safety checks
Mechanics should check your brakes, tyres, and lights to make sure you can drive safely. - Electrical systems
EVs rely on their electrical systems more than other cars. Mechanics will inspect these to help prevent electrical faults. They will typically carry out a physical inspection on cables and connectors on the low voltage system. - Cooling system
This system helps prevent your car’s battery and motor from overheating. Mechanics will check to make sure it’s working right. - Diagnostics
Mechanics will run a diagnostic check to use tools to find any hidden issues before they become big problems. - Cable and connector inspection
Mechanics look at your charging cables and connectors for any signs of wear or damage.
These steps keep your electric car in top condition. Regular checks help spot issues early, saving time and money. Remember, different garages and mechanics might perform slightly different checks. Talk to your mechanic about the tests they perform.
Key differences with an EV service
- Mechanical differences
EVs don’t require traditional engine-related checks like oil changes, cambelts or exhaust systems. However, key components such as the motor, reduction gearbox and cooling systems are still high-tech and need careful inspection to ensure long-term reliability. - Battery care
The battery is central to every electric car, so an electric car service includes detailed checks on battery health, cooling systems, cables and safety mechanisms. These elements are critical to performance, range and safe operation - High-voltage systems
Electric cars rely on high-voltage systems to power the motor and battery. Technicians inspect components like inverters, wiring, connectors and insulation, using specialist tools and procedures to ensure everything is safe and functioning correctly. - Regenerative braking
Regenerative braking captures energy when slowing down to recharge the battery. As it’s unique to an electric car, mechanics check the system closely to ensure it’s working efficiently and supporting overall performance.
How often should you service your EV
Most manufacturers recommend an electric car service every 12 months or 10,000–20,000 miles, whichever comes first. While an electric car has fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel vehicles, regular servicing is still essential to keep key systems like the battery, brakes and software working properly. Always check your electric car handbook, as service intervals can vary by model.
Maintaining your EV
Keeping your electric car in good condition between each electric car service helps improve performance and extend its lifespan. Here are a few simple checks:
- Battery care
Avoid regularly charging to 100% unless needed, and try not to let the battery run completely flat. - Tyres and brakes
Electric cars are heavier, so check tyre pressure and tread regularly. Regenerative braking can reduce brake wear, but they still need inspection. - Fluids and filters
Top up washer fluid and check cabin air filters to keep everything running smoothly. - Software updates
Many electric cars receive updates that improve efficiency and performance, to keep your system up to date.
Regular maintenance alongside your electric car service ensures your electric car stays reliable, efficient and safe to drive.
Why choose the RAC for your electric car service?
At the RAC, we’ve been helping UK drivers for over 125 years, and our electric car service is designed specifically for EVs. Our RAC Mobile Mechanics are trained to work on electric cars, carrying out specialist checks on battery health, charging cables and high-voltage systems to keep your vehicle safe and performing efficiently.
We come to you at home or work, so there’s no need to visit a garage or wait around, just our hassle-free electric car service with no hidden costs. We also use quality parts covered by warranty, giving you extra peace of mind. Plus, with an ‘Excellent’ Trustpilot rating and our MOT Fee Guarantee.†
You pass, or we pay†
Get a service from RAC Mobile Mechanics at home. We're so confident in the quality of our work, that if you fail your MOT within 30 days, over something we've checked, we'll refund you the price of your test.†
Full electric service
A comprehensive set of checks to make sure your car’s safe and working correctly. A visual inspection of your high voltage components will also be carried out.
^^T&Cs apply. Offer ends 20/07/26, 9am.
Interim electric service
A series of checks to keep your car running smoothly between full services. A visual inspection of your high voltage components will also be carried out.
^^T&Cs apply. Offer ends 20/07/26, 9am.
Frequently Asked Questions on electric vehicle service
Electric car services focus on looking after the unique parts of electric vehicles (EVs). This includes checking the battery, electric motor, and other electronics. They also cover tyre rotation, brake checks, and software updates.
Yes, electric cars need regular servicing to ensure they run well. While they have fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel cars, parts like the battery, motor, and brakes still require regular care.
The cost of an electric car service in the UK can vary, but it’s generally less expensive than servicing a petrol or diesel car, as there are fewer parts that require care.
Yes, EV cars need an MOT after three years, just like petrol or diesel cars. The MOT test includes checks on lights, tyres, brakes, and other important parts to ensure the car is safe to drive on the road.
Not all garages can service electric cars. It's important to take your EV to a garage with mechanics trained to work on electric cars. These garages have the right tools and knowledge to maintain your EV properly.
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