8 Electric Car Service Questions

At Fred Martin Nissan, we’re committed to providing exceptional electric vehicle (EV) service to Canton drivers. As one of the leading EV servicers in Akron, we frequently receive inquiries regarding electric car service, EV functionality, and the necessary parts for proper operation. To help our customers become more knowledgeable about EVs and their maintenance, we’ve compiled a list of eight common questions along with our answers to help you learn about the maintenance of your new electric vehicle.

1. Do Electric Cars Need Oil?

One of the most popular questions we get at our Akron service department is, “Do electric cars need oil?” No! Electric cars do not require oil changes as they do not have a traditional gasoline-powered engine that requires lubrication. Since there are no moving parts in an electric powertrain, motor oil is unnecessary.

Worth Noting: This answer does not apply to hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicles. Hybrid vehicles run on an electric battery and combustion engine combo and do require regular oil changes like a conventional gas-powered car.

2. Do Electric Cars Have Horsepower?

EVs do have horsepower, but it’s usually measured as “KW” instead of “horsepower.” KW is almost equivalent to horsepower, so the difference is quite minor. To find out how much horsepower an EV produces when measured in KW, simply use your favorite search engine to find a KW to HP converter and plug in your favorite EV model’s specs.

3. Do Electric Cars Have a Transmission?

While electric cars have transmissions, they don’t require transmissions with multiple speeds like traditional internal combustion engine cars. The reason is that electric motors produce the same amount of torque at any RPM within a specific range. The variation of torque output through different gear ratios isn’t required because EVs can generate power instantly. The gear ratios in electric vehicles are pre-calculated and carefully integrated, so there is no need for the driver to shift gears.

4. Do Electric Cars Have Alternators?

No. Instead, electric and hybrid vehicles have a DC-to-DC converter which recharges the 12-volt battery using power from the battery pack.

5. Do Electric Cars Have Catalytic Converters?

No. Catalytic converters are built to remove byproducts created by the functioning of an internal combustion engine. As electric vehicles have no combustion engines, catalytic converters are not necessary.

6. Do Electric Cars Have Exhaust Systems?

No, there are no exhaust pipes in electric cars. With no internal combustion engines and no gas required, there is no fuel exhaust to release.

7. Do Electric Cars Have Heaters/Do Electric Cars Have Air Conditioning?

Electric cars do have heating and air conditioning systems. These systems are powered by the electricity stored in the battery system, much like many other traditional vehicles. That said, the efficiency of these systems, or how much you use them, may impact the overall range of your EV.

8. Do Electric Cars Last Longer Than Gas Cars?

Gas-powered cars and electric cars each have their own advantages. Gas-powered cars can have a longer driving range per fuel fill-up and replacement parts are readily available at any Massillon auto shop. However, electric cars require less maintenance and can last longer due to fewer moving parts. While electric cars still require regular electric car service, their simpler design can increase their lifespan.

Get Your Electric Car Service at Fred Martin Nissan Today!

Do you have more questions about EV service or need to schedule maintenance for your electric vehicle? Look no further than Fred Martin Nissan! While you’re here, check out our service and parts specials before scheduling your appointment at our Akron dealership.