With the rapid rise in electric vehicle (EV) adoption in India, electric cars are no longer a future concept—they are already part of everyday life. While EVs are known for low maintenance costs and fewer moving parts, servicing an electric car still requires special attention and awareness. Many EV owners assume that servicing is similar to petrol or diesel cars, but that is not entirely true.
If you own or are planning to buy an electric car, understanding what to check during EV servicing is crucial for safety, performance, and long-term battery health. Here’s a complete guide explaining everything you should keep in mind while servicing an electric car.
1. Battery Health Check Is the Most Important
The battery is the heart of an electric car. During service, ensure that a detailed battery diagnostic test is performed.
Key things to check:
Battery State of Health (SOH)
Charging efficiency and degradation levels
Thermal performance of the battery pack
Any error codes related to battery management
A healthy battery ensures better range, consistent performance, and longer vehicle life. Ignoring battery diagnostics can lead to sudden range drops and expensive replacements.
2. Cooling System Inspection Is Crucial
Electric cars rely heavily on advanced cooling systems to maintain battery temperature and motor efficiency. Unlike conventional engines, EV batteries can overheat if cooling systems fail.
During service, make sure technicians inspect:
Coolant levels
Coolant leakage
Radiator and cooling pipes
Battery thermal management system
A faulty cooling system can reduce battery life and affect charging speed.
3. Brake System Needs Special Attention
Electric cars use regenerative braking, which reduces wear on brake pads. However, this also means brakes may not be used as frequently as in ICE vehicles.
Important checks include:
Brake pad condition (may harden due to less usage)
Brake fluid levels
Disc corrosion due to inactivity
Even if brake pads last longer, ignoring brake maintenance can compromise safety.
4. Software Updates Should Never Be Ignored
Modern electric cars are heavily software-driven. From battery management to driving modes, software controls almost everything.
During servicing, ensure:
Latest software updates are installed
System glitches or error warnings are addressed
Infotainment and driving assistance systems are updated
Timely software updates can improve range, charging efficiency, and overall driving experience.
5. Charging Port and Cables Inspection
The charging system is another critical component that needs regular inspection.
Service checks should include:
Charging port cleanliness and wear
Connector pins condition
Charging cable insulation
AC and DC fast charging compatibility check
Damaged ports or cables can cause slow charging or safety hazards.
6. Electric Motor and Power Electronics Check
Although electric motors require less maintenance, they still need inspection to ensure optimal performance.
Technicians should examine:
Motor noise or vibration
Power inverter condition
Controller unit performance
Electrical connections and insulation
Proper motor health ensures smooth acceleration and consistent power delivery.
7. Suspension, Tyres, and Alignment Still Matter
Electric cars are generally heavier due to battery packs, which puts extra load on tyres and suspension.
During service, ensure:
Tyre tread depth and pressure are checked
Wheel alignment and balancing are done
Suspension components are inspected for wear
Good tyres and suspension directly impact range and ride comfort.
8. Cabin AC System and Heat Pump Check
Most electric cars use energy-efficient heat pumps for cabin cooling and heating.
Servicing should include:
AC performance check
Cabin filter cleaning or replacement
Heat pump efficiency test
A faulty AC system can drain the battery faster and reduce driving range.
9. High-Voltage Safety Inspection
Electric vehicles operate on high-voltage systems, which require specialized handling.
Ensure the service center checks:
Insulation resistance
Wiring integrity
Safety cut-off systems
Warning indicators and fault alerts
Never compromise on high-voltage safety—it protects both the driver and technicians.
10. Always Choose an Authorized EV Service Center
Electric cars require trained technicians and specialized equipment. Servicing at unauthorized garages may lead to incorrect diagnostics or safety risks.
Authorized service centers offer:
Certified EV technicians
Genuine parts
Correct software tools
Warranty protection
This ensures your electric car remains safe, efficient, and reliable.
Conclusion
Servicing an electric car may be simpler than servicing a petrol or diesel vehicle, but it demands technical precision and awareness. From battery health and cooling systems to software updates and safety checks, every aspect plays a vital role in maintaining performance and longevity.
By following these essential servicing tips, EV owners can enjoy better range, improved safety, and lower long-term costs. As electric mobility continues to grow in India, informed maintenance will be the key to a hassle-free ownership experience.
Rohit Sharma
AuthorLast updated 8 hours ago
