Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more common on roads throughout Brookfield and beyond—but many drivers still have questions about how they work and what kind of maintenance they require. Two of the most common questions we hear are: Do electric cars have transmissions, and do electric cars need oil changes? These questions reflect how EVs differ from traditional gas-powered vehicles.
Whether you’re already driving an EV or considering making the switch in Bethel, the Honda of Danbury service center is here to clear things up and help you care for your electric vehicle the right way. Below, we’ve listed 8 of those common questions, as well as our answers, to help you learn more about electric car service.
If a car runs on electricity only, it doesn’t need oil changes. Why is that? It doesn’t have a traditional gasoline-powered combustion engine. Oil isn’t necessary for an EV; oil’s purpose is to lubricate the moving parts of an engine. If there’s no engine to speak of—just an electric powertrain—there are no moving parts for the motor oil to lubricate.
Worth Noting: Hybrid vehicles run on an electric battery + combustion engine combo and do require regular oil changes like a conventional gas-powered car.
Yes, EVs have horsepower, although it’s not always measured as “horsepower.” Instead, some automakers measure the power of their EVs in “kW.” There isn’t much of a difference between the two. Using Google Search, search “kW to hp,” and you’ll find a converter at the top of the results page that tells you exactly how much horsepower an EV produces if its power is measured in kW.
Yes, they do, but they don’t need transmissions with multiple speeds, such as 6-speed or 8-speed transmissions. Internal combustion engines require multiple gears with varying gear ratios to produce power. Electric motors produce the same amount of torque, regardless of RPM, within a specific range. Generating torque via revving isn’t necessary with electric motors because EVs produce power immediately. The gear ratios are precalculated and carefully integrated, so drivers don’t have to change gears.
No, EVs, as well as hybrids, have a DC-to-DC converter. This recharges the 12-volt battery using power from the battery pack.
No, catalytic converters aren’t needed in electric cars. Catalytic converters are necessary to remove the byproducts of internal combustion engines. EVs don’t have these kinds of engines, though, so catalytic converters aren’t necessary.
No, there are no exhaust pipes in electric cars. EVs don’t produce any exhaust gases. No gasoline is burned to power an EV, so there’s no need for an exhaust system.
Yes, EVs have heat and air conditioning. By definition, electric cars rely on electricity stored in the batteries to run the heating and cooling systems. It’s worth noting that the design/efficiency of those systems is important to the overall range of the car.
Gas-powered cars have their advantages; they can travel further on a single fill-up, and it’s easier for drivers to replace parts as they wear out. Electric vehicles, on the other hand, can last longer with fewer repairs. That’s not to say that electric cars don’t require regular maintenance—they do—but the lack of moving parts within an EV greatly increases their longevity.
Drivers near New Fairfield who are new to electric vehicles often wonder what kind of maintenance is actually needed. While EVs are known for having fewer service requirements than traditional gas-powered cars, routine care is still essential to ensure safety, longevity, and performance. At Honda of Danbury, we provide expert support for electric vehicles, including battery diagnostics, software updates, tire inspections, and brake servicing.
We also offer a variety of rotating service and parts specials to help you save while keeping your vehicle in peak condition. Whether you’re a longtime EV owner or just exploring your options, our certified technicians and knowledgeable team are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us to learn more or schedule your service online today—we’re here to help you drive smarter wherever you go in Brewster, NY.
