Do Electric Cars Use Oil?

There are many benefits that you will enjoy when upgrading your Providence, RI commute with a MINI Electric Hardtop 2 Door. Along with zero emissions and potential tax credits, many of the routine maintenance services required for gas-powered vehicles are not needed for EVs. In fact, it’s estimated that EVs cost up to 40% less to maintain over the course of ownership. So, do electric cars use oil, or do electric cars need oil changes? The answer is no. You’ll never have to schedule an electric car oil change. However, you will still need to keep track of transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid. Take a closer look at electric vehicle maintenance and if your EV is due for service, schedule an appointment with MINI of Warwick today!

What Fluids Do Electric Vehicles Use?

Do electric cars use oil, or rather, do electric cars need oil changes? No, but there are other fluids that are vital to EV performance and safety on Cranston, RI roads and beyond. Some of the essential EV fluids you’ll need to keep track of include:

• Brake Fluid: Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that amplifies brake force and also lubricates the brake system to keep it from corroding.
• Transmission Fluid: Transmission fluid lubricates the moving parts within the gearbox and also provides hydraulic pressure to make the internal parts work. There are different types of transmission fluid available, so you should consult your owner’s manual to determine which is right for your EV.
• Coolant: Coolant helps to keep the batteries, the converters, and the motor from overheating.

In addition to monitoring the fluids listed above, you’ll also have to keep up to date with other important EV maintenance services including tire rotations, wheel alignment, and brake pad replacement. Your owner’s manual will detail the maintenance services needed for your specific EV model. Feel free to contact our service center if you have any questions or concerns.

Electric Vehicle Parts

New and used EVs are equipped with an electric motor that converts an electrical current from the battery into power to drive the vehicle. While you won’t have to stop at a gas station to refuel your EV, you will need to recharge it either at your home or at one of the many public charging stations in the Warwick area. It should come as no surprise then that many of the key components of an electric vehicle have to do with the charging system. Here are some of the most important EV-specific parts and systems:

• Charging ports: These are the external chargers you use to charge the battery of your vehicle.
• Onboard charger: The charger converts the external charge you receive from a charging port into DC power.
• DC-DC converter: This converts the high-voltage direct current (DC) power that comes from the battery into the low-voltage DC power that moves the vehicle.
• Battery: Your battery stores the electricity that powers the motors as you drive.
• Thermal system: This system keeps your motors and electronic components from overheating.
• Traction motors: These motors turn your vehicle’s wheels.

Get Expert EV Maintenance at MINI of Warwick!

Does an electric car need oil? No, but there are other automotive fluids and maintenance tasks that you will need to take care of on a regular basis. The certified technicians in the MINI of Warwick service center are here to handle all of your EV maintenance and repair needs. Our goal is to make sure your vehicle is always running safely at peak performance levels on the roads in and around Newport, RI. Remember to browse our current service specials to save on your next electric vehicle service.