mechanics.trade
Electric and hybrid vehicle repair
Electric and hybrid vehicles need less routine work than a petrol car, because there is no oil, no cambelt and far less brake wear.
What ev and hybrid repair means
What they do need is different: high-voltage battery checks, coolant for the battery and electronics, brake fluid, and cabin filters. Work on the high-voltage system requires specific training and equipment.
What the job covers
- Servicing for electric and hybrid vehicles
- High-voltage battery health checks
- Hybrid battery repair and replacement
- Charging fault diagnosis
- Brake and coolant work on regenerative systems
When you might need it
- The service interval has come round, which still exists even though the list is shorter.
- Range has dropped noticeably beyond what cold weather explains.
- A charging fault, or the car refusing to take a full charge.
What it costs, and what changes the price
Typically £100 to £400.
- Routine servicing usually costs less than the petrol equivalent.
- High-voltage work needs a qualified technician and costs more per hour.
- Battery health checks are often a fixed fee and are worth having before buying a used electric car.
How long it takes
A routine service is an hour or two. Battery diagnostics take longer.
Common questions
Do electric cars need an MOT?
Yes, on the same three year then annual cycle. The emissions part does not apply, but brakes, steering, suspension, tyres and lights all do.
Can any garage work on an electric car?
Tyres, brakes and suspension, yes. Anything touching the high-voltage system needs specific qualification, so it is worth asking when you book.
How long does a traction battery last?
Most are warrantied for eight years or a set mileage, and real world data suggests they commonly outlast that. A health check gives you the figure for your car.