What EV Maintenance Really Looks Like in 2025
Electric vehicles aren’t a niche anymore. By 2025, they’ve become a common sight in driveways across the country. And while most EV owners know they can skip oil changes, there’s still plenty of confusion about what actually needs attention — and what doesn’t.
Yes, EVs are simpler to maintain than gas cars. But “simpler” doesn’t mean “nothing.” A few key checks go a long way toward keeping your EV in good shape — and avoiding expensive surprises later on.
What You Can Stop Worrying About
Here’s the good news: EVs don’t need oil changes, spark plugs, or timing belts. Most skip transmission fluid changes too. There’s no exhaust system, no emissions checks, no radiator or alternator — and of course, no gas station stops.
Fewer moving parts means fewer routine visits and fewer chances for things to break. Still, there are some things you shouldn’t ignore.
What Still Needs Attention
Even without an engine, your EV has wear points that need regular care — tires, brakes, cabin filters, coolant, and the small but essential 12V battery.
Because EVs are heavier and deliver power instantly, tires wear out faster than on gas cars. Rotate them every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. Brake pads last longer thanks to regenerative braking, but brake fluid still needs changing every couple of years.
The battery cooling system — often liquid-based — may require a coolant swap every 4–5 years. Cabin filters should be changed regularly, especially if you drive in dusty areas.
And don’t forget the 12V battery. Even in an EV, it powers the electronics and can go bad just like in a gas car. Plan to replace it every 3–5 years.
Battery Life: Not as Scary as It Used to Be
Battery degradation used to be a major concern. These days, most modern EVs lose just a few percent of capacity each year. It's still smart to avoid charging to 100% daily or relying too much on DC fast charging. Staying in the 20–80% range for daily use helps preserve battery health.
Software updates also play a role — they sometimes tweak how the battery is managed, even if you don’t see it directly.
Software: Part of the Maintenance Equation
By 2025, software updates aren’t just about adding features. They fix bugs, fine-tune charging behavior, and manage thermal systems. Most cars update automatically, but it’s worth checking once a month to ensure you’re not missing anything important.
Maintenance Varies by Brand
Each automaker takes a different approach. Here’s a quick snapshot:
- Tesla: Minimal service schedule. You handle basics like tires and fluid; most other updates are wireless. Many repairs are done by mobile techs.
- Hyundai & Kia: Stick to a more traditional dealer-based schedule, with set service intervals.
- Rivian: Relies on app-based tracking and its own service network.
- Lucid: Offers concierge service in some cities. Much of it is managed through the car’s interface.
- Ford (Mach-E, Lightning): Combines dealership visits with over-the-air updates — similar to a transitional hybrid model.
Not sure what applies to your car? The manual’s your best bet. Need help with Tesla models? Check our Tesla manuals by year and model.
Where to Get Service
EV service isn’t limited to dealerships anymore. Tesla, Lucid, and Rivian use dedicated networks — with mobile techs handling a lot of repairs. GM, Ford, and other legacy brands rely on trained dealer technicians. And more independent shops than ever are stepping up, especially for things like brakes, tires, and even battery diagnostics.
Just make sure whoever you go to knows how to handle high-voltage systems. That part’s non-negotiable.
Maintenance Checklist
Most EVs still need the following:
- Tire rotation every 6,000–8,000 miles
- Brake fluid every 2–3 years
- Cabin air filter every 2 years
- 12V battery every 3–5 years
- Battery coolant (check your manual)
- Smart charging habits: stay between 20–80% when possible
- Monthly check for software updates
Final Thoughts
EVs take less effort to maintain — but not zero. Knowing what to check (and when) means fewer surprises and more years of smooth driving.
Don’t have your manual nearby? We’ve got it. Just pick your car by make and model to get started.
