ELECTRIC SERVICING

Does an Electric Car Need a Service?

If you’re new to the world of electric motoring, you’ll be aware that many aspects of EVs work differently from petrol or diesel cars. Here, we take you through everything you need to know about electric car servicing.

How often do EVs need servicing? Just like petrol and diesel cars, EVs need to be serviced on a regular basis. At Flear & Thomson, we’re proud to provide Kia EV servicing at our Perth, Dunfermline and Stirling dealerships. Kia recommends service intervals of 12 months/10,000 miles for plug-in hybrid vehicles and intervals of every 24 months/18,000 miles for electric cars.
How do I know if my car needs a service? If you purchased your Kia from a Flear & Thomson dealership, our aftersales team will get in touch to let you know when your next service or MOT is due. If not, your Kia may display a ‘service required’ message when you turn it on, reminding you to book an appointment. Alternatively, check your vehicle’s service book or digital records.

What’s Involved in a Full Service:

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    Battery and
    Charging System
    Cabling and Inspection
    of Electrical Connections
    Checking Fluid Levels
    Brakes and Tyres
    Content

    Electric Servicing FAQs

    We’ve answered some of the most common EV servicing questions below. If you need more information, don’t hesitate to contact your local Flear & Thomson dealership for assistance.

    How often should I service my electric car?

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    The frequency of your EV services will depend on manufacturer recommendations and the mileage you cover. Some manufacturers recommend servicing every 12 months, while others advise a 24-month interval. Speak to the team at Flear & Thomson to learn more about your recommended Kia service schedule.

    Do electric cars need MOT?

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    Yes, just like petrol or diesel vehicles, electric cars need an annual MOT from when the car is three years old. Many of the same components are checked for safety and roadworthiness.

    How long does an electric car service take?

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    Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts than cars with a combustion engine, so servicing typically takes less time. Depending on the type of service, it may take anywhere between 30-90 minutes.

    How do I know if my electric car needs a repair or service?

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    Often a dashboard warning light or ‘service required’ message will notify you that a service is due. Otherwise, you can opt in to reminders from your local dealership. If your vehicle needs a repair, this could be indicated by reduced range, slow charging, or unusual sounds.

    Are electric cars less maintenance?

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    Overall, electric vehicles require less maintenance than petrol or diesel models because they have fewer moving parts. There’s no exhaust system or engine oil, for example.

    What needs servicing on an electric car?

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    EV servicing covers the electric motor and batteries, the oil used in the transmission, the coolant that chills the batteries, the brakes, the tyres and the suspension. Your service may also include checks on the air conditioning, cabin filters and wiper blades.

    What does an electric vehicle battery health check involve?

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    An EV battery health check involves the use of diagnostic tools and specialised equipment to assess the condition of the battery. It provides technicians with information about charging, discharging, internal resistance and more.

    Is it cheaper to service an electric car than a petrol or diesel?

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    Yes. Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel cars, meaning they are often cheaper to service and maintain. Regenerative braking also reduces the need for friction braking, preserving the life of the brakes.