EVs and Repair Shops: Who Fixes Electric Cars?
There is plenty of talk about building the electric vehicle infrastructure in the US. State and federal agencies have dumped millions into expanding EV charging stations, plus added tax credits to make buying EVs more affordable. But who will fix EVs once there are millions out on the road?
Aftermarket repair shops are critical to meeting mobility needs in the US and help keep dealership costs in check.
EV Dealerships Can’t Keep Up
While fully electric vehicles have been around for over a decade, sales of EVs from Tesla, Ford and other manufacturers ballooned in 2017. Private sector sales increased by 36% in 2022, with EVs expected to represent 29.5% of all new car sales by 2030.
That pace is quickly overwhelming dealerships. On top of normal maintenance and repairs, dealerships are dealing with a slew of EV-related manufacturer recalls. These repairs and warranty efforts have been slowed by OEM part shortages driven by ongoing supply chain challenges in the industry as well.
Dealerships cannot handle the current volume of EV repairs, making aftermarket repairs at local shops is critical to the future of EVs.
What EVs Mean to Auto Repair Shops
Most auto service centers are already servicing electric vehicles, although it isn’t always easy.
Nothing Is Standard
Take the badge of any internal combustion engine car and most parts are similar, if not the same. While there are certain proprietary quirks, most mechanics can tackle the majority of the repairs without needing to research a solution. That’s not the case with EVs. Manufacturers are doing things very differently from each other and even making substantial structural changes between model years.
Less Maintenance
Electric vehicles require less maintenance and cost about half as much to repair over their lifetime. This is great for EV owners but challenging for repair shops. Without consistent need now, it’s tough to invest in EV-specific tools, training and infrastructure to repair them. As a result, many local auto shops aren’t prepared to work on EVs.
Related: Dealership vs. Local Garage: Who Should Work On Your Car?
Why EV Consumers Need Auto Repair Shops
Headlines question the future of auto repair shops with electric vehicles on the rise. Consumers benefit from third-party service and repairs in many ways:
Local matters – Millions of Americans don’t live close to dealerships. Without a local EV repair option, they could face long drives for basic tune-ups and repairs.
Price control – Dealerships pay non-negotiable prices for parts and software to the manufacturer. Competition from OEM parts and repair services offers consumers a more affordable option and helps keep manufacturer prices in check.
Creativity – Repair shop mechanics are more ingenious and creative in their repair solutions, shortening repair times and lowering repair costs.
Don’t Forget About Hybrids
The popularity of hybrid cars, particularly Toyota, has helped to ease local repair shops into the world of electrification. Working on hybrid Prius and RAV4 models may not be quite the same as a Tesla, but it has given garages like Garfield Auto more than a decade under the hoods of new systems.
On the Road with Garfield Auto
Cars breakdown. Whether it’s a Tesla or Ford, drivers need quick, reliable repairs and maintenance at a shop close by. We’re committed to keeping Northern Michigan mobile; trust your EV, hybrid or classic to Garfield Auto; schedule your repair today.