Do Electric Cars Use Oil?

Many Asheville drivers ask us, “Do electric cars use oil?” We’re pleased to say the answer is no, eliminating the need for electric car oil changes. While electric cars don’t need oil, you will still have to follow a maintenance schedule to ensure your Equinox EV or Silverado EV runs smoothly. Learn more in this guide from our service experts below.

What Fluids Do You Need to Change in Electric Vehicles?

Fletcher and Hendersonville drivers do not need to worry about electric car oil changes. However, they will need to keep tabs on brake fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant. Here’s a closer look at what that means in practice:

• Brake Fluid: Like any type of car, EVs feature brakes, meaning that you’ll need to ensure your brake system is properly lubricated in order to remain safe while driving. 
• Transmission fluid: This fluid ensures that your gears move efficiently and are well preserved. Since your EV features a transmission, you’ll need to stay on top of transmission fluid changes. Consult your owner’s manual for specific intervals.
• Coolant: The coolant in your radiator keeps your battery and vehicle systems from overheating. 

Of course, electric vehicles still need tires! That means you’ll also need to schedule regular services like tire rotations and wheel alignments. No matter what you need, we make it easy to schedule service online.

Electric Vehicle Parts 

Now that you know that electric cars don’t use oil, let’s take a look at the anatomy of EVs. Once you’ve got a better sense of how EVs differ from gas-powered vehicles, you’ll be better prepared to keep your EV in good condition for years to come.

EVs use an electric motor, which converts an electrical current from your battery into motion. Torque is generated with magnets alongside the motor. The magnets create a magnetic field around the motor and churn it. To ensure that your vehicle has the power required to run, you’ll need to charge it up at home or at public charging stations in Arden.

Here are the most fundamental parts of your EV:

• Charging ports: These are the external chargers you use to charge the battery of your vehicle. 
• Traction motors: These motors turn your vehicle’s wheels.
• 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.

Learn More About the Benefits of Electric Vehicles

Do electric cars need oil? No, electric car oil changes aren’t necessary. This is just one of the many benefits of electric vehicles—you’ll also enjoy endless savings on gasoline and a potential federal tax credit! Contact Sunshine Chevrolet, LLC today to learn more.