How to Maintain Your EV in Australia | Tips for Longevity & Savings

Electric vehicles (EVs) have shifted from being a futuristic concept to a practical reality on Australian roads. With government incentives, expanding charging infrastructure, and a growing variety of models, EV adoption is steadily rising. However, like any car, EVs require consistent maintenance to ensure safety, performance, and long-term cost savings.

Unlike petrol or diesel cars, EVs have fewer moving parts, no oil changes, and simplified servicing needs. But that doesn’t mean they’re maintenance-free. Battery care, software updates, tyres, and cooling systems all play vital roles in keeping your EV in top shape.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about maintaining an electric car in Australia, including unique challenges such as hot summers, long road trips, and limited charging access in regional areas. By following these tips, you can maximise your EV’s lifespan, reduce costs, and enjoy worry-free driving.

Why EV Maintenance is Different from Petrol and Diesel Cars

Traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars rely on regular oil changes, spark plugs, exhaust systems, and complex transmissions. EVs, in contrast, have:

• No engine oil to change
• No exhaust system, catalytic converter, or mufflers
• Simplified drivetrain with fewer moving parts
• Regenerative braking systems that reduce brake wear

This translates into fewer service visits and lower maintenance costs. Yet, EVs still require attention in areas that ICE cars don’t, particularly battery health, software optimisation, and electrical safety checks.

Battery Care: The Heart of EV Maintenance

The battery is the most expensive and crucial component of an EV. In Australia, replacement costs can exceed $10,000–$20,000, depending on the model. Extending battery life is the single most important part of EV care.

Charging Best Practices

• Avoid frequent 100% charges. Keeping your battery between 20%–80% helps reduce stress and degradation.
• Use DC fast charging sparingly. While convenient, regular use of ultra-fast charging can increase heat and reduce lifespan.
• Charge overnight at home with a wallbox or standard socket for slower, gentler charging.

Heat Management in Australia

Australia’s climate can be harsh on EV batteries. Prolonged exposure to high summer heat accelerates degradation. To minimise risks:

• Park in shaded or covered areas when possible.
• Use pre-conditioning features to cool the cabin while plugged in, reducing strain on the battery.
• Ensure your EV’s thermal management system (if equipped) is functioning properly.

Long-Term Storage

If you’re leaving your EV unused for weeks, keep the battery at around 50% charge. This balance prevents both deep discharge and overcharge stress.

Software Updates: Keeping Your EV Smarter and Safer

Unlike traditional cars, EVs often receive over-the-air software updates. These updates improve performance, enhance safety, and even unlock new features.

• Check for updates regularly via your infotainment system or mobile app.
• Enable automatic updates where possible.
• Updates may improve range estimates, refine regenerative braking, and patch security vulnerabilities.

Think of updates as part of your EV’s “digital maintenance.” Ignoring them can leave your vehicle less efficient and more vulnerable.

Tyres: Handling Extra Weight and Torque

EVs weigh more than equivalent petrol cars due to heavy batteries, and instant torque adds extra strain on tyres.

• Rotate tyres every 10,000 km to ensure even wear.
• Check tyre pressure weekly. Underinflated tyres reduce range and increase wear.
• Consider EV-specific tyres. These are designed for higher loads, quieter operation, and improved efficiency.

In Australia, where road trips often cover long distances, tyre quality directly impacts range and safety.

Brake System: The Regenerative Advantage

EVs use regenerative braking, which converts kinetic energy back into electricity. This reduces wear on brake pads and discs, often extending their life to double or triple that of ICE cars.

Still, regular inspections are essential:

• Check brake fluid levels annually.
• Inspect pads and rotors during service intervals.
• Ensure the regenerative system is functioning correctly.

Cooling and Thermal Management

Most modern EVs use liquid cooling systems for the battery and electronics. Maintaining these systems is critical in Australia’s hot conditions.

• Coolant replacement schedules vary but typically occur every 5–7 years.
• Check coolant levels during service visits.
• Monitor cabin cooling efficiency. Weak air conditioning may indicate broader thermal issues.

Cabin and Interior Maintenance

Like any car, keeping your interior clean enhances comfort and resale value. EVs often include advanced tech features such as large touchscreens, digital clusters, and premium audio systems.

• Use microfibre cloths for cleaning screens.
• Keep vents dust-free to support climate control efficiency.
• Avoid overloading USB ports with third-party devices, which may strain the electrical system.

Charging Equipment Care

Your EV charger and cables need attention too.

• Inspect charging cables for wear or damage.
• Keep connectors dry and clean.
• Avoid using extension cords or unapproved adapters.
• For home wall chargers, schedule periodic inspections by a licensed electrician.

Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Australia

Summer Care

• Limit midday charging sessions.
• Use sunshades to reduce cabin heat load.
• Monitor battery temperatures via your EV app.

Winter Care

• Pre-condition your EV while plugged in before driving to save battery.
• Expect reduced range in colder climates such as Tasmania or the Snowy Mountains.
• Check tyre pressure more frequently (cold air contracts).

Cost of EV Maintenance in Australia

One of the biggest benefits of EVs is lower ongoing servicing costs. Studies show EV maintenance is typically 30%–40% cheaper than ICE cars.

Typical service checks include:

• Battery diagnostics
• Software updates
• Brake inspections
• Tyre rotations
• Cooling system check

Some manufacturers, like Tesla, no longer mandate annual servicing, instead recommending checks based on kilometres driven. Others, like Hyundai and BYD, have scheduled service intervals similar to petrol cars, but with fewer consumables to replace.

DIY vs Professional EV Maintenance

DIY Friendly Tasks

• Checking tyre pressure
• Cleaning cabin air filters
• Inspecting wipers, lights, and fluid levels
• Keeping charging cables clean

Tasks for Professionals

• High-voltage system diagnostics
• Battery repairs or replacements
• Cooling system servicing
• Software recalibration

Due to the complexity and high voltage of EVs, professional servicing is often the safest choice for anything beyond basic care.

Extending Your EV’s Resale Value

Resale value is an important factor for Aussie drivers upgrading every few years. EVs with well-maintained batteries, service records, and cosmetic care command higher resale prices.

• Keep a log of charging habits and service records.
• Maintain a clean exterior and interior.
• Ensure all updates and recalls are completed.

Road Trips and EV Longevity in Australia

Australia’s vast distances present unique challenges. Preparing your EV for long trips helps both convenience and longevity.

• Plan charging stops in advance using apps like PlugShare.
• Avoid arriving at chargers with less than 10% battery.
• Carry a Type 2 to Type 1 adapter if your EV supports it.
• Check tyre pressure before every long drive.

Common EV Maintenance Myths in Australia

• “EVs don’t need servicing.” Wrong—while they require less, inspections are still crucial.
• “Fast charging always ruins the battery.” Occasional use is fine; the issue arises from constant reliance.
• “EV batteries only last a few years.” Most modern EV batteries last 8–15 years, with warranties covering at least 8 years.

Future of EV Maintenance in Australia

As EV adoption grows, more mechanics are training in high-voltage systems. Expect:

• Wider availability of EV-certified workshops
• More affordable replacement battery options
• Improved diagnostics through AI and telematics

Government and industry investment in skills training will reduce service costs further, making EV ownership even more appealing.

Conclusion

Maintaining an EV in Australia is simpler and often cheaper than looking after a petrol or diesel car. By focusing on battery health, keeping software updated, monitoring tyres, and managing charging habits, you can extend your EV’s lifespan and save significantly on running costs.

The key takeaway? While EVs demand less frequent servicing, they require smart care tailored to Australian conditions. With the right approach, your electric car will deliver reliable performance, long-term savings, and a greener driving future.