Electric cars are powered by batteries instead of an engine, so they require much less maintenance than a gas-powered car. EV ownership will mean you won't need to pay for gas or oil changes but there are still a few fluids that electric car drivers need to refill from time. Here are the fluids that can be found in many EVs you should know about.
Washer fluid
The most obvious fluid and easiest one to refill is the windshield washer fluid. The reservoir has a bright blue cap, in most vehicles, and can easily be found under the hood. Washer fluid is sold at most gas stations and is pretty easy to find as well.
Brake fluid
While EVs have a lot of new technology, there are still some things they do the old fashioned way. That being the brakes that still need to be maintained.
Brake fluid needs to be changed to make sure your brakes are getting the best performance possible. This needs to be changed every 45,000 miles.
Gearbox fluid
EVs don't have a transmission like a gas vehicle since most of them use a single-speed gearbox or an e-axle. While transmision fluid needs to be replaced between 30,000 to 60,000 miles, gearbox fluid can last between 80,000 to 100,000 miles. Gearbox fluid lubricates the gearbox to keep it running smoothly and protects it from corrosion as they constantly receive power from the electric motors at high RPMs.
Coolant
While gas cars use coolant for the engine, EVs use it for the batteries that propel the vehicle. It cools the battery temperatures to prevent overheating while keeping all of the car's systems up and running. This fluid is stored in sealed tubes that are tightly secured and can go between 80,000 to 100,000 miles before being changed. Check your owner's manual to see when you need it changed as it varies depending on the vehicle.
Keenan Thompson is a car culture reporter for the Detroit Free Press. Contact Keenan at kthompson@freepress.com. Follow him on Instagram at @keenanautos. To sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Did you know EVs have fluids? Here is when you should change them
