Do Electric Cars Use Oil?
More and more Americans are choosing to forgo the gas pump and plug-in instead. According to the Pew Research Center, nearly half of U.S. adults support phasing out gas-fueled cars in favor of hybrid or electric vehicles (EVs). While 51% oppose the idea of switching from gas to electric cars, the research shows that a fairly sizable chunk of the population is open to the idea.
California is one of the states that has been leading the charge to fully switch from gas-dependent cars/trucks to zero-emission vehicles by 2030. Supported by powerful environmental groups, California Governor Gavin Newsom has been a longtime advocate for switching the entire state over to electric vehicles and restricting the sale of internal combustion engine automobiles.
While the Pew Research study from 2020 reveals that 7% of Americans currently own an electric or hybrid car, 39% say that they are very likely to purchase an EV when they are due for a new car. Registered EVs currently operating in the United States tripled from 2016 to 2020, with more on the roads than ever before.
Aside from the environmental benefits and not having to ever buy gas again, there are still a lot of misconceptions about how EVs function and what maintenance is required to extend the lifespan of your electric vehicle. One that often comes up is, “Do electric cars use oil?” We have the short and extended answer here.
Do Electric Cars Use Oil?
Simply put, the answer is no, electric cars do not use oil. Electric cars don’t need oil because they lack a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE). And while plug-in hybrids still require an oil change because they are equipped with an internal combustion engine, they are more efficient due to the combination of interchangeable power systems, shifting effortlessly between electricity to gas to conserve energy.
In a gas-fueled vehicle, car owners have to use lubricants and oils to lubricate the valves, pistons, and other fast-moving parts. With all of those cylinders firing at high speeds, metal flakes begin to accumulate in the oil, which requires having to regularly change the oil.
It isn’t to say that electric cars don’t need routine maintenance though, they absolutely do. It just differs a bit from traditional gas-fueled automobiles. EVs utilize entirely different drivelines so you’ll never have to hassle with oil changes or lubricate the moving parts of a combustion engine.
Even though your electrical does not need regular oil changes, you should be mindful of changing and refilling these three fluids so that your electric car runs smoothly.
- Coolant – The electric car relies on a thermoregulation system that keeps the battery from overheating. You need to add or replace coolant during your regular maintenance sessions.
- Brake Fluid – The regenerative braking system in an electric car relies on brake fluid to operate properly. You should change your electric vehicle’s brake fluid every 25k miles
- Windshield Wiper Fluid – EVs are technological marvels, but even they need fresh wiper fluid from time to time. Be sure to refill as often as needed and flush out your windshield wiper fluid receptacle once a year.
Traditional Car Maintenance List That Electric Cars Don’t Require
The EV revolution has arrived and it’s changing the way we think about driving. Gone are the days where you needed to visit a mechanic every few months, or alternatively have someone else do all that maintenance work on a traditional vehicle. Electric vehicles require less care than their ICE counterparts. Here are some other common maintenance issues that EVs simply don’t need.
- Spark Plugs
- Fuel Filters
- Head Gaskets
- Belt and Hose Replacement
- New Cylinders and Rings
- Radiator Upkeep
- Bearings
- Crankshafts
- Camshafts
- Water Pump Replacement
Are You Shopping for an Electric Car in 2022?
If you’re looking for an affordable, high-quality pre-owned electric vehicle, Hawthorne Auto Square can help. We have numerous sedans, trucks, and SUVs that will suit your needs. We can get you approved for financing in minutes and offer numerous payment options. To learn more and set up an appointment with us, call 866-707-7664 today.
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