Do electric cars need oil changes?

No—battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) do not need engine oil changes because they don’t have internal combustion engines. They use electric motors and sealed gearboxes that don’t require routine engine-oil service. However, hybrids and plug-in hybrids still have engines and do require oil changes, and all EVs have other fluids and maintenance items to keep on schedule. Below is a breakdown of what you should know in 2025.

Why battery-electric cars don’t need oil changes

BEVs are powered by electric motors, which don’t burn fuel or use engine oil for lubrication the way gasoline or diesel engines do. Instead, most EVs have a single-speed reduction gearbox with factory-fill lubricant designed to last the life of the unit under normal conditions. Bearings in electric motors are typically lubricated for life. This is why the familiar “every 5,000–10,000 miles” engine oil change interval simply doesn’t apply to BEVs.

What fluids and maintenance EVs still have

While BEVs skip engine oil, they still have several fluids and service items that need periodic inspection or replacement. The list below outlines the most common items and how they’re typically handled by manufacturers.

• Drive-unit/reduction-gear lubricant: Usually sealed and not on a routine change schedule. Some makers call for inspections or fluid replacement only at high mileage or under severe use; follow the owner’s manual.
• Battery and power electronics coolant: Liquid cooling manages battery and inverter temperatures. Intervals vary by brand; some specify long intervals or “lifetime” coolant, while others schedule service at extended mileage or years. Always check your model’s maintenance guide.
• Brake fluid: Hygroscopic and should be tested periodically (often around every 2 years) and replaced as needed, regardless of brake pad wear.
• Brakes (pads/rotors): Regenerative braking reduces pad wear, but rotors can corrode with light use. Regular inspections prevent issues.
• Cabin air filter: Typically replaced every 1–3 years depending on model and environment.
• Tires and alignment: EV weight and instant torque can increase tire wear. Rotations are commonly recommended every 6,000–8,000 miles (or per tread wear), with periodic alignments.
• Air-conditioning refrigerant and compressor oil: Not a routine replacement item; serviced only if there’s a leak or during A/C system maintenance. Some models specify desiccant-bag replacement at extended intervals.
• 12-volt/low-voltage system: Many EVs still use a 12V battery (lead-acid or lithium). Replacement intervals vary; monitor health as part of routine service.
• Software updates and inspections: Over-the-air updates and scheduled inspections keep systems current and catch wear or recalls.

Together, these items are simpler and less frequent than engine-related maintenance, but they remain essential to longevity, safety, and warranty compliance. Your vehicle’s maintenance schedule is the definitive guide.

What about hybrids and range-extended EVs?

Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and range-extended EVs include an internal combustion engine. Those engines do require oil changes on a schedule similar to conventional cars, even though electric assistance can reduce how often the engine runs.

Typical oil-change guidance for hybrids and PHEVs

The following points summarize how most manufacturers handle oil service on vehicles that still have an engine.

• Follow the owner’s manual or the vehicle’s oil-life monitor; intervals commonly range from about 5,000 to 10,000 miles or roughly once per year, whichever comes first.
• Use the exact oil grade and specification required (often low-viscosity synthetic) to protect emissions systems and maintain efficiency.
• Driving patterns matter: frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, towing, or dusty environments may shorten intervals.

Because engine usage varies widely in hybrids, the manufacturer’s schedule and on-board monitoring provide the most reliable cue for when to change oil.

Cost and environmental implications

Skipping engine oil changes is a key reason BEVs typically have lower routine maintenance costs and generate less waste oil over their service life. That said, specialized EV services—like battery coolant handling—should be performed by qualified technicians with the correct tools and procedures to avoid damage and preserve safety systems.

Practical advice for owners

To get the most from your electric vehicle and avoid unnecessary service, use the following checklist as a guide.

1. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact maintenance schedule—even for “lifetime” fluids and inspection intervals.
2. Keep software up to date and review service bulletins or recalls from the manufacturer.
3. Rotate tires regularly, maintain proper tire pressure, and schedule alignments as needed to prevent uneven wear.
4. Test and replace brake fluid at recommended intervals; inspect brakes for rotor corrosion and pad condition.
5. Replace cabin air filters on schedule and service the A/C system only as required.
6. Document maintenance to protect warranty coverage and resale value.

Following these steps minimizes surprises, preserves efficiency and safety, and keeps your EV compliant with warranty requirements.

Summary

Battery-electric cars do not need engine oil changes, because they lack internal combustion engines. They still require maintenance—mainly inspections, coolant management, brake fluid service, tire care, and occasional filter replacements. Hybrids and range-extended EVs do have engines and therefore require regular oil changes per the manufacturer’s schedule. For exact intervals and procedures, always rely on the owner’s manual for your specific model.

Does an electric car need antifreeze?

Yes, EVs use coolant. The difference between ICE and EV coolant is that the battery needs to be kept cool, rather than the engine. There are several different ways EV’s do this, with the two most popular being liquid and air.

What is the biggest problem with electric cars?

The biggest perceived problem with electric cars is often cited as the battery and charging infrastructure. Key issues include a limited and sometimes incompatible public charging network, the high cost of the battery, and concerns over charging time, which can be significantly longer than refueling a gas-powered vehicle. Other significant problems involve the higher initial purchase price, potential for battery degradation over time, and uncertainty regarding long-term reliability and repair costs. 
Battery and Charging Issues 

• Limited Charging Infrastructure: There are far fewer public charging stations compared to gas stations, creating a barrier for some drivers, especially those without home charging access. 
• Incompatible Chargers: The variety of charging connectors and networks can be confusing, and not all chargers are compatible with all vehicles, requiring adapters. 
• Charging Time: Recharging an electric car can take from minutes to several hours, significantly longer than a quick stop at a gas station, which can be a deterrent for long-distance travel. 
• Battery Degradation: Over time, EV batteries lose capacity, reducing a vehicle’s driving range, and battery replacement can be an expensive undertaking. 
• Temperature Sensitivity: Battery performance can be negatively impacted by extreme cold or heat, reducing range and efficiency. 

Cost and Maintenance

• Higher Initial Cost: Electric cars generally have a higher purchase price than conventional vehicles, although government incentives can help offset this. 
• Expensive Repairs and Maintenance: EVs can have higher repair costs due to complex systems like cooling and electronics, and a shortage of trained independent mechanics. 
• Uncertainty of Long-Term Durability: Because EVs are a relatively new technology, there is less long-term data on how their components age, leading to uncertainty about future repair costs and reliability. 

Other Concerns

• Range Anxiety: Opens in new tabMany drivers experience anxiety about their vehicle running out of battery before reaching a charging station, especially on longer trips or in areas with fewer charging options. 
• Environmental Impact of Battery Production: Opens in new tabWhile EVs have no tailpipe emissions, the manufacturing process, including mining and processing battery materials, has a significant carbon footprint. 

How often do electric cars need oil changes?

Electric cars use completely different drivetrains, so you will never have to worry about routine oil changes that are necessary for traditional cars. Though your electric car does not need oil, it requires a routine check on these 3 fluids in EVs; coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washing fluid.

What is the lifespan of an electric car?

The average lifespan of an electric car is around 10 to 20 years or 100,000 to 200,000 miles, with the battery typically lasting a significant portion of that time, often covered by an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty. Several factors influence the actual longevity, including driving habits, battery health, and operating environment, while the lack of an internal combustion engine means fewer moving parts and less maintenance compared to a traditional car.
 
Factors that extend an EV’s lifespan:

• Fewer Moving Parts: EVs have significantly fewer mechanical components than gasoline cars, leading to less wear and tear and a longer lifespan for the overall vehicle. 
• Battery Technology: Advancements in battery technology mean they degrade slower, with modern batteries lasting longer than previous generations. 
• Reduced Maintenance: EVs require less maintenance over their lifetime because there’s no engine oil to change, no transmission fluid to replace, and fewer complex systems to service. 
• Proper Charging Habits: Avoiding consistently charging to 100% and not fully draining the battery helps to minimize wear on the battery pack. 
• Ideal Climate: Operating the vehicle in moderate temperatures is ideal, as extreme heat or cold can impact battery performance and lifespan. 

Factors that reduce an EV’s lifespan: 

• Harsh Driving Conditions: Aggressive driving and frequent use in extreme temperatures can accelerate battery degradation and overall vehicle wear.
• Battery Age and Charge Cycles: The number of charge cycles a battery undergoes can affect its lifespan, though battery technology is improving to mitigate this effect.
• Environmental Impact: Extreme temperatures and other environmental factors can hinder the chemical processes within the battery and decrease its efficiency.

Key considerations for EV lifespan:

• Battery Replacement: Opens in new tabWhile a battery can be a significant expense, it’s unlikely to need replacement within the first 10-20 years of the vehicle’s life. 
• Vehicle vs. Battery Life: Opens in new tabThe battery is often the limiting factor, but with proper care and modern technology, the battery can outlast the typical ownership period of a vehicle. 
• Warranty Coverage: Opens in new tabMost EV manufacturers offer extensive warranties, usually covering 8 years or 100,000 miles, providing peace of mind for battery issues.