The Complete Electric Vehicle Maintenance Guide
Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts than gas cars, but they still need regular maintenance to stay safe and efficient. This guide covers EVs from Tesla, Chevrolet, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, BMW, Rivian, and others. We cover tire rotations and alignment (EVs are heavy, tires wear faster), brake inspections and pad replacement (regen braking extends pad life but calipers can seize from disuse), cabin air filter changes, coolant service for the battery thermal management system, 12V battery health, windshield wiper and washer fluid, and software update best practices. Select your driving conditions below for a schedule matched to your EV.
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Intervals Based on Manufacturer Recommendations
These intervals are compiled from Tesla, Chevrolet, Ford, Hyundai, and other EV manufacturer service manuals. EV maintenance is simpler than gas vehicles but still important. Always cross-reference with your owner's manual for model-specific requirements. For personalized reminders, download LookOver free on iOS and Android.
| Service Task | 7,500 Miles ~6 months | 15,000 Miles ~12 months | 30,000 Miles ~2 years | 50,000 Miles ~4 years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Rotate tires | ||||
Check tire pressure and condition | - | - | ||
Inspect wiper blades and washer fluid | - | - | ||
Replace cabin air filter | - | |||
Inspect brake pads and rotors | - | |||
Test 12V accessory battery | - | |||
Inspect battery thermal management coolant | - | - | ||
Flush brake fluid | - | - | ||
Check wheel alignment | - | - | ||
Inspect HVAC system and A/C | - | - | ||
Inspect suspension components | - | - | - | |
Inspect drive unit fluid (if serviceable) | - | - | - |
Track Your EV Maintenance
Set mileage reminders for tire rotations, brake inspections, and coolant service. LookOver works offline.
Tires & Alignment
EVs are heavier than gas vehicles. That extra weight means tires wear faster and alignment matters more.
Brakes & Regenerative Braking
Regen braking means your pads last much longer, but that creates its own maintenance challenge.
High-Voltage Battery Care
Your battery pack is the most expensive component. Proper care maximizes its lifespan.
Log Every Service
Build a complete maintenance history. Documented care helps resale value, especially for EVs.
12V Battery & Electronics
Your EV has a conventional 12V battery too. If it dies, the car won't start, even with a full main battery.
Seasonal Tips
Temperature has a bigger impact on EV range and battery health than on gas vehicles.
Winter
- Pre-condition cabin while plugged in to save range
- Use seat heaters instead of cabin heat when possible
- Keep battery above 20% in cold weather
- Expect 20-40% range reduction in freezing temps
- Test 12V battery; cold weather is the biggest killer
Summer
- Park in shade to reduce battery cooling load
- Avoid charging to 100% in extreme heat
- Check tire pressure; heat increases PSI
- A/C use reduces range less than winter heating
- Keep battery cooling system well-maintained
Long Trips
- Charge to 100% before departure
- Plan charging stops with route planners
- Pre-condition battery before arriving at fast chargers
- Carry a portable Level 1 charger as backup
Storage
- Leave battery at 50-60% for long-term storage
- Keep plugged in with charge limit set if possible
- Maintain 12V battery with a tender
- Store indoors or in shade to protect the battery
Go Deeper
Track all your service intervals in one place. LookOver handles hours, miles, and dates so you never miss a service. Download free on iOS and Android.
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