Electric cars still need scheduled servicing, although their maintenance requirements differ from those of petrol and diesel vehicles.
The price depends on the model, service interval, repairer, location and work required, while current UK booking data suggests that routine EV servicing can cost less on average than servicing a petrol or diesel vehicle.
EV ownership continues to grow in the UK. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) recorded 473,348 new battery electric car registrations in 2025, more than the total recorded in 2021 and 2022 combined, giving them a 23.4% market share.
By the end of August 2026, Zapmap recorded more than 2.18 million fully electric cars, representing around 6.3% of the approximately 34.8 million cars on UK roads. For owners planning their running costs, the starting point is understanding what an electric car service involves and what may be included in the price.
What is an electric car service?
An electric car service is a scheduled inspection carried out at the intervals set by the vehicle manufacturer. A qualified technician checks the car’s condition and completes the maintenance specified for that model. Following the correct schedule can also help motorists meet servicing conditions attached to a warranty.
What’s included in an electric car service?
The checks included in electric car servicing vary by manufacturer and model, but may cover the high-voltage battery and cables, charging system, 12-volt battery, brakes, tyres, steering, suspension, lights and fluid levels. Software and diagnostic checks may also be required.
How much does an electric car service cost?
BookMyGarage’s UK bookings data places the average electric car service cost at £103. EV servicing costs can vary by make, model, service level, labour rate and location. Replacement parts or repairs would usually increase the bill, so motorists should confirm what a quote includes before authorising the work.
How does the cost of an electric car service compare to a petrol car?
The same bookings data gives the following average service costs by powertrain:
| Vehicle type | Average service cost |
| Electric | £103 |
| Petrol | £151 |
| Hybrid | £163 |
| Diesel | £163 |
Source: BookMyGarage electric car servicing data 2026.
These figures show a £48 difference between the average electric and petrol service in that dataset. The price for a particular vehicle will depend on its servicing schedule and the items due.
Why are electric cars cheaper to service than petrol or diesel cars?
An electric powertrain has fewer mechanical components requiring routine attention. As an EV typically uses a combination of batteries and motors, there is no engine oil, oil filter, spark plugs or exhaust system to service, while many EVs use a single-speed transmission.
One industry estimate puts the number of moving parts in an electric powertrain at as few as 20, compared with more than 2,000 in a petrol engine, and associates this difference with maintenance costs that are 40% lower over a vehicle’s lifetime.
Fleet News has separately reported that EVs require around 50% less maintenance, averaging £165 a year compared with £300 for petrol vehicles, and have 90% fewer moving parts. These estimates cover maintenance more broadly, whereas the table shows individual service bookings.
Are electric car brakes more expensive to maintain?
Regenerative braking uses the electric motor to slow the vehicle and return energy to the battery, which can reduce wear on brake pads and discs.
However, lower use of the friction brakes can allow corrosion to develop, particularly in wet or salty conditions. Costs therefore depend on the vehicle, its use and whether components need cleaning, servicing or replacement. Reduced wear does not guarantee a lower bill each time.
How do I find a garage that services electric cars?
EV work requires appropriate training, equipment and safety procedures. BookMyGarage reports that only 16% of UK mechanics are currently qualified to carry out electric vehicle servicing, so motorists should confirm that a garage can service their make and model.
The Motor Ombudsman’s Business Finder can be used to locate nearby businesses that service electric vehicles and are accredited to The Motor Ombudsman’s Service and Repair Code.
How can I keep my electric car service costs down?
Follow the manufacturer’s service schedule and check which items are due before booking, as service requirements can differ between model years and versions. Ask for a written quote that separates the scheduled service from any additional work, and request an explanation before agreeing to extra repairs.
Regular tyre-pressure and tread checks, attention to warning lights and prompt investigation of unusual noises can also help prevent avoidable wear or a smaller fault becoming more costly.