Complete Guide to EV Maintenance in India: What Every Owner Should Know

Author: Yatharth Singh Chauhan•Published on: 1/14/2026•6 Minutes
Overview:Electric vehicles (EVs) are easier and more affordable to maintain than conventional petrol or diesel cars, thanks to fewer moving parts and simpler mechanical systems. In India, EV maintenance mainly focuses on battery care, tyre health, brakes, and software updates rather than oil changes or complex engine repairs. With proper charging habits, regular tyre rotation, periodic fluid checks, and adherence to service schedules, EVs can deliver long battery life, lower servicing costs, and reliable performance. As India’s EV service infrastructure expands, owning and maintaining an electric car is becoming increasingly convenient, cost-effective, and future-ready.
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Key Highlights:


  • Essential EV components that need attention and how they differ from petrol cars.
  • Practical battery care tips to extend performance and lifespan.
  • Step-by-step maintenance schedule tailored to Indian conditions.
  • Cost-saving insights on EV servicing compared to petrol vehicles.



Are you thinking of buying an electric car but aren't sure about the maintenance? Well, the good news is that maintaining an EV is easier than maintaining an ICE. This is simply because they have fewer moving parts. Hence, the less mechanical complexity leads to easier maintenance. So, EVs not only reduce running costs but also cut down on service expenditures.


This guide here takes you through the essentials of EV maintenance in India. It talks about everything from battery care and tyre maintenance to service schedules. Through this, you’ll learn how to keep your electric vehicle in top condition without burning a hole in your pocket.


Key EV Components that Need Maintenance


Electric cars are designed differently from ICE vehicles. While they do not have many complex engine parts, some of the components still need regular attention.


Battery Pack Care

The battery pack is the most important part of any EV. While ICE cars require oil changes, that's not the case with EVs. Instead, one needs to take care of the battery health.


To ensure the long life of the battery:

  • Avoid draining the battery completely
  • Avoid usage in extreme heat or cold conditions
  • Do not leave the car unused at 100% charge for long durations
  • Follow manufacturer-specific charging guidelines

If maintained properly, EV batteries can last well over 100,000 km before requiring replacement.


Tyre Care

EVs are heavier than similar ICE carts. This is due to their battery packs. They use special low-resistance tyres for achieving high efficiency. Proper tyre maintenance helps you stay safe, achieve a high range, and reduce overall costs.


For proper EV tyre maintenance, ensure:

  • Tyre rotation at a regular interval
  • Regular tyre pressure checks

Neglecting tyre maintenance shortens their life. It even reduces the driving range.


Recommended EV Maintenance Schedule in India


All EV owners should follow a structured service routine. Doing so will ensure the EV runs smoothly. It even prevents costly issues from cropping up.


Routine Checks

  • Tyre pressure
  • Tyre tread wear
  • Windscreen washer fluid levels
  • Exterior lights and indicators

Every 8,000-11,000 km

  • Tyre rotation
  • Wheel balancing and alignment
  • Lubrication where required
  • Check coolant levels

At 25,000 km

  • Replace cabin air filters
  • Install new wiper blades
  • Check the steering and suspension system
  • Check AC
  • Inspect transmission fluid

At 48,000 km

  • Replace brake fluid
  • Replace brake pads
  • Flush and refill the coolant
  • Replace power steering fluid (if applicable)

Always cross-check with your car’s manual. Maintenance requirements vary by manufacturer.


Why EV Maintenance Costs Less than Petrol Cars


The servicing costs of EVs are lower than petrol or diesel models. Here’s why:


Fewer Moving Parts

A petrol car's engine has roughly 2,000 moving parts. On the other hand, EV powertrains have less than 20. It doesn't require any oil change. Nor does it need spark plug or timing belt changes. There's even a lower chance of failure.


Simpler Transmission

EVs use a single-speed gearbox. This is unlike multi-gear systems in petrol cars. It simply leads to a reduction in clutch replacements or gearbox oil changes, it even ensures less complex repairs.


Longer Brake Life

Regenerative braking recycles energy back into the battery and reduces wear on brake pads and discs. As a result, brake components last far longer in EVs.


Do EVs Need Oil Changes?


No, not like ICE vehicles. As EVs don’t have engines, there is no requirement for engine oil change. However, they still need:

  • Reduction gearbox oil (rarely replaced
  • Coolant change/top-ups
  • Brake fluid change

All these are occasionally changed. And that's exactly why EVs are more affordable to maintain.


EVs Ensure Easy Maintenance


Electric vehicles don't just cut down the emissions; they even reduce your maintenance bills. This is simply due to fewer parts to service. With a focus on battery care, your electric car can turn out to be easier and cheaper to maintain than conventional vehicles.


One can extend the life of their EV by following the service schedules and the practices outlined above. This guide helps you extend the life of your EV and even save significantly on maintenance. All this helps you enjoy a smooth driving experience for years to come.


The Future of EV Maintenance in India


As the EV market grows, the service infrastructure is getting better throughout India. The major highlights include:

  • Dedicated EV service bays in Tata, MG, and Mahindra workshops.
  • Mobile service vans by startups for at-home diagnostics.
  • Wider availability of EV-trained mechanics across metros and tier-2 cities.
  • The increasing use of AI-driven predictive maintenance alerts owners before failures occur.

With government incentives and rising adoption, maintaining an EV will only get easier and cheaper in the coming years.


Final Thoughts


Owning an EV in India today is not just about cutting fuel costs. It’s about embracing a new lifestyle of intelligent, cleaner, and more efficient driving. With fewer parts to worry about, maintenance is simpler, but battery care, tyre health, and charging systems demand attention.


By following proper practices, such as keeping software updated, charging wisely, rotating tyres, and respecting the battery, you can save significant money while ensuring your EV delivers reliable performance for years.


The bottom line: EV maintenance in India is not complicated; it’s just different. Learn the ropes, stay consistent, and your EV will reward you with smooth, cost-efficient, and eco-friendly journeys.


FAQs


1. How often do EVs need servicing in India?
Basic checks can be done monthly, while more detailed servicing is usually required every 8,000–11,000 km.


2. What is the most important part of EV maintenance?
Battery care is the most crucial. Good charging habits and avoiding extreme temperatures can significantly extend its lifespan.


3. How much does EV maintenance cost compared to petrol cars?
EV maintenance costs are typically 30–50% lower, thanks to fewer moving parts and less brake and transmission wear.


4. Do EVs require special care during the monsoon season?
Yes. Check rubber seals, underbody protection, and electrical connections regularly to prevent water damage.


5. How long do EV tyres last in India?
Because EVs are heavier, tyres may wear faster than on petrol cars. With proper care, they generally last 40,000–50,000 km.


6. Is regenerative braking completely maintenance-free?
It reduces brake wear significantly, but pads and discs should still be checked during routine servicing.