New Era of Electric Vehicle Maintenance
As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to dominate the automotive industry, electric car maintenance has evolved alongside the shift from combustion engines to electric drivetrains. One key question remains: do electric cars need oil? In the traditional sense, the answer is no—EVs don’t require oil changes like gasoline-powered engines. However, EVs still need various fluids for their operation, ensuring everything from cooling to lubrication is taken care of.
At TERZO Lubricants, we understand the evolving needs of electric vehicle maintenance. While oil changes may no longer be necessary, there are specific fluids that keep your EV running smoothly. From coolant to gearbox oil, understanding what fluids are required is essential for maximum performance, longevity, and safety.
Do Electric Cars Use Oil?
Unlike traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, electric cars don’t require engine oil. EVs are powered by electric motors, and these motors don’t have the same moving parts that require lubrication. However, this doesn’t mean that oil has no role in an electric car.
For instance, electric motor gearbox oil is still essential for lubricating the electric motor’s gearbox. In some high-performance or specialized vehicles, electric motor oil helps ensure that the transmission and motor components operate without excess friction. TERZO’s high-performance synthetic oils can support these needs by offering low friction, high-temperature stability, and anti-wear protection for the electric drivetrain.
Fluids Required for Electric Vehicle Maintenance
While EVs don’t use traditional engine oil, coolants are still crucial to their functioning. Electric vehicle cooling systems help manage the temperature of key components like the battery pack, electric motor, and inverter. Without efficient thermal management, these components can overheat, reducing the car’s range, performance, and lifespan.
Types of Fluids Used in Electric Vehicle Maintenance:
EV Cooling Fluids – These are used in the battery thermal management system to ensure that the battery operates at an optimal temperature. Overheating or freezing can degrade battery performance or cause damage. TERZO’s coolant fluids are designed for electric vehicle cooling, ensuring maximum protection for both the battery and engine components.
Gearbox and Motor Oils – While electric motors themselves don’t need engine oil, the gearbox and other mechanical components do. TERZO synthetic motor oils help lubricate the electric motor’s moving parts and gearbox, extending the motor’s life and ensuring smooth gear transitions.
Brake Fluid – As with any vehicle, brake fluid is required to maintain brake performance. EVs may also have regenerative braking systems, but they still require high-quality brake fluid to ensure maximum braking safety.
For B2B partners, understanding these fluid needs is critical in stocking the right products for EV maintenance. By partnering with TERZO Lubricants, you can offer OEM-quality fluids designed specifically for electric vehicles, supporting everything from cooling systems to gearbox lubricants.
Do Electric Vehicles Need Oil Changes?
While electric cars don’t need oil changes for their engines, they do require regular fluid maintenance. For instance, the coolant fluid should be replaced at specific intervals to prevent system degradation, and gearbox oil may need to be checked and replaced as well.
EV owners often overlook the importance of regular fluid checks because they’re accustomed to the traditional oil change schedule of ICE vehicles. However, without proper fluid maintenance, performance can decline, and the vehicle’s engine and battery may wear out prematurely.
For distributors and workshops, providing fluids specific to EVs—such as battery coolant, electric motor oil, and synthetic lubricants—ensures that maintenance is not just limited to tire checks or brake service. By stocking products like low viscosity and high efficiency, you can offer premium maintenance services to EV owners who might otherwise neglect the full scope of maintenance needs.
Electric Car Fluids for Different EV Models
EVs, including popular models like Tesla, Nissan Leaf, and Chevy Bolt, each have unique fluid requirements. For example, Tesla vehicles, known for their high-performance electric motors, often require specific coolants and lubricants. Understanding the needs of each model is critical for suppliers and technicians.
Take Tesla’s oil filter—although Teslas don’t require traditional oil changes, they do have a gearbox oil filter that needs periodic inspection. Similarly, Tesla windshield wiper fluid has specific formulations designed for electric vehicle systems, ensuring optimal performance and visibility during harsh weather.
TERZO Lubricants specializes in providing OEM-grade fluids that are tailored to electric vehicle specifications—including coolants for battery temperature management, motor oils, and lubricants for high-efficiency performance. By offering the right products to service EV fleets, mechanics, and automotive distributors, TERZO ensures that electric cars receive the proper care they need to maximize their longevity.
What Fluids Do Electric Vehicles Use for Cooling?
Electric cars rely heavily on efficient cooling systems to manage the heat generated by batteries and motors. Thermal management fluids help regulate the temperature of these critical components, preventing overheating and enhancing overall vehicle efficiency.
Electric vehicles are transforming the automotive industry, and with this change comes a new understanding of electric vehicle maintenance. While oil changes may no longer be a requirement, EVs still demand specialized coolants, lubricants, and gearbox oils to perform at their best.
