Debunking Misconceptions about Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Folks buying their first EV often brace for maintenance bills that crush their budget, way worse than gas cars. Recent studies say otherwise. Repairs and upkeep actually cost less in the end.
Key Findings from the CDK Global Study
CDK Global's EV Ownership Study pulled in feedback from buyers between December 2024 and January 2025. New drivers walk in with all sorts of wrong ideas about ownership expenses. That skews how they picture repair costs right from the start.
- Many EV owners spend less on maintenance than they figured.
- More drivers go for mobile service. It's just easier that way.
- Repairs take longer, though. EVs stay in the shop more than gas cars do.
The Shift in Owner Perspectives
New EV buyers don't buy the low-maintenance pitch at first. But after a few shop visits, minds change quick. Come the end of year one, 53% of non-Tesla owners claim service costs run lower than for gas cars. Tesla drivers? Only 41% feel that way.
The Rise of Mobile Services and Changing Habits
EV owners are turning to mobile service in bigger numbers. The percentage picked it up from 14% in 2023 to 19% in 2024. Dealership drop-ins fell off a cliff. Quick and no fuss – that's the draw.
Time Is of the Essence
Costs add up favorably. But time's the real issue here. EVs need more hours in the shop. Tesla owners wait 23% longer than they would for gas vehicles. Non-Tesla folks? A 34% jump in delays.
How Long Are EVs In Service?
| Service Duration | 2024 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|
| Same day | 28% | 40% |
| The following day | 29% | 21% |
| Two days | 21% | 22% |
| Three days | 14% | 9% |
| Four days | 4% | 4% |
| Five days | 2% | 2% |
| Over five days | 2% | 2% |
Source: CDK Global EV Ownership Study
Challenges Facing Legacy Automakers
Traditional carmakers hustle to keep up as EVs pour into showrooms – non-Tesla brands hit hardest. They balance EV work with old gas car repairs in the same bays. Tesla dodges that mess entirely, sticking to EV-only service spots.
First-Year Maintenance Experience
Eighty-five percent of new EV owners run into some maintenance hiccup during year one. On the bright side, only 13% fork over their own money. Recalls drive most of it, not owner-caused trouble. And that flips the script on what people expect.
The Bigger Picture on EV Maintenance Costs and Consumer Experience
Overall, EVs trim your everyday operating costs and repair fees under those of gas cars. Time in the shop stretches out, so factor that in. If an EV's on your shortlist, why not rent one first? GetRentacar.com lets you pick from solid locations, grab an electric vehicle, and feel out the benefits before you buy. They cover e-scooters up to high-end SUVs. Booking takes minutes. Head to GetRentacar.com.
Final Thoughts
EV upkeep runs cheaper these days. Mobile services smooth things out too. Wait times drag on, and the repair scene moves fast. Rent an EV via GetRentacar to test the waters, slash fuel costs on your next drive, and track rental shifts with platforms like CarCloud. It's a smart move.
