Electric and hybrid car servicing
Published by the Serviced247 editorial teamLast reviewed 24 October 2026
A battery-electric car has no engine oil, no spark plugs, no exhaust and no cambelt, so a routine service is shorter. It is not zero-maintenance: brakes, tyres, suspension, coolant systems, cabin filters and software all still need attention.
Hybrids need both: the combustion-engine service items and the high-voltage system checks.
What changes on an EV
- No engine oil, oil filter, spark plugs or exhaust work
- Brake pads and discs often last longer thanks to regenerative braking - but they still need inspecting, and discs can corrode from light use
- Tyres can wear faster because EVs are heavier and deliver instant torque
- Battery and drive-unit coolant circuits, cabin filters and 12V battery still need servicing
- Software and high-voltage system health checks become part of the routine
Who can work on it
High-voltage systems require technicians trained and equipped to work on them safely. Any garage can change EV tyres or wipers; not every garage is set up to isolate and work on a high-voltage battery system.
Ask directly what level of EV qualification the technicians hold and whether high-voltage work is done in-house or subcontracted.
Serviced247 does not hold verified records of which garages are EV-qualified. Confirm directly with the garage.
MOT for electric cars
Electric cars need an MOT on the same timetable as any other car. The emissions element does not apply, but every other check does.