EV Maintenance Myths Debunked: What Drivers Really Need to Know

Electric vehicles have gone from being niche curiosities to mainstays on California roads. More drivers are considering the switch, drawn in by lower fueling costs, environmental benefits, and cutting-edge technology. But with that growing interest also comes some confusion. A trip to the local coffee shop or scroll through a car forum may lead to people arguing over EV maintenance, battery life, and whether owning an EV is more expensive in the long run.

The truth is that EVs are not the mystery machines they are sometimes made out to be. If you are weighing whether an EV fits your lifestyle, here are some of the most common EV maintenance myths and the facts behind them.

Myth 1: EVs Do Not Require Any Maintenance

EVs indeed have fewer moving parts than traditional internal combustion engines. There is no oil to change, no spark plugs to replace, and no timing belts to worry about. That said, they are not magically maintenance-proof.

EV owners should still stay on top of:

• Tire rotations: EVs are typically heavier than their ICE counterparts, so tires can wear faster
• Brake inspections: regenerative braking helps, but brakes still need care
• Fluids: like coolant (for battery thermal management) and windshield washer fluid

So, while you may be making fewer trips to the mechanic, skipping maintenance altogether is never a good idea.

Myth 2: EV Batteries Need Replacing Every Few Years

Another myth is that EV batteries fade quickly, like the one in your phone. In reality, EV batteries are engineered for long life.

Here is what you should know:

• Most manufacturers offer 8 to 10-year warranties on batteries
• Studies show many packs retain 70 to 80 percent of capacity after 200,000 miles
• With regular charging habits, batteries often outlast the car itself

Instead of budgeting for a costly replacement every few years, most EV drivers enjoy many years of reliable performance.

Myth 3: EV Maintenance Costs More Than Gas Cars

It is easy to assume that a high-tech vehicle comes with high-tech repair bills. But according to Consumer Reports, EV drivers spend about half as much on maintenance compared to gas car owners.

That is because EVs do not have many of the parts that fail in traditional cars:

• No oil changes
• No exhaust systems
• No multi-speed transmissions

Of course, you will still pay for:

• Tires and brakes
• Cabin air filters
• Wipers and washer fluid

Myth 4: EVs Cannot Handle Long-Term Wear and Tear

Skeptics sometimes argue that EVs are fine for short-term use but will not hold up over years of daily driving. The reality is that EVs are proving themselves in harsh conditions.

Consider this:

• Taxi fleets and rideshare drivers log hundreds of thousands of miles on EVs
• Delivery services rely on EVs for daily heavy use with minimal issues
• EV motors have far fewer components than gas engines, so there are fewer parts to break

For drivers who rack up serious mileage, EVs are turning out to be surprisingly rugged.

Myth 5: Fast charging is the most efficient way to charge

Just like your smartphone, how you charge your EV matters. While fast charging is convenient, using it all the time can stress the battery.

Best practices for everyday charging include:

• Use Level 2 home charging whenever possible
• Keep your battery between 20 and 80 percent for regular driving
• Save DC fast charging for road trips or emergencies

Modern EVs make this easier with built-in software that lets you set limits and schedules.

EV Geography: Charging in the Inland Empire

One question many Southern California drivers ask is how EVs fit into daily life in the Inland Empire. This region stretches from Ontario and Rancho Cucamonga to Riverside and San Bernardino, an area known for wide roads, suburban neighborhoods, and long commutes.

Here is the good news for Inland Empire drivers:

• Level 2 chargers are now standard in shopping centers, office complexes, and public parking areas
• DC fast chargers are being added to major highways like the 10, 60, and 15
• Installing a home charging station is often the most convenient option
• Apartment residents are finding more public charging solutions than ever before

For most people, charging is no longer the barrier it once was.

The Bottom Line on EV Maintenance

When you cut through the myths, EV ownership is far less intimidating than it might appear. EVs are not maintenance-free, but they are much simpler to care for than gas-powered cars.

To sum it up:

• EV batteries last far longer than most people expect
• Maintenance costs are generally lower than those of gas cars
• EVs hold up well under long-term and heavy use
• Charging is becoming easier, especially in regions like the Inland Empire

For Inland Empire drivers, the growing charging network makes EVs increasingly practical, whether you are commuting to Los Angeles, running errands around Ontario, or taking weekend trips out to Palm Springs.

Ontario Auto Center: Your EV Destination

For drivers ready to explore EV ownership, Ontario Auto Center offers a wide range of electric vehicles from trusted brands. Whether you are interested in a compact commuter car, a family-friendly SUV, or a performance-focused model, you will find options that fit your lifestyle and budget.

With multiple dealerships under one roof and knowledgeable staff ready to answer questions, Ontario Auto Center makes it easy to:

• Compare EV models side by side
• Learn about charging options for home and public use
• Find flexible financing and leasing deals
• Drive home in an EV that matches your needs

Switching to an EV is not just about driving the latest technology. It is about reducing long-term costs, cutting down on maintenance headaches, and enjoying a smoother driving experience. Ontario Auto Center is the perfect place to start your journey.