Do Electric Cars Use Oil?

An electric car does not require motor oil, as it uses an electric motor rather than an internal combustion engine. On a gas vehicle, motor oil is used to lubricate the many moving parts of the engine and keep components, such as the pistons and valves which move quickly past each other, requiring oil to reduce friction, and help the engine run more smoothly. 

Electric cars are operated through an electric motor and battery, which sends power to the wheels. There aren’t any valves or pistons that need to be lubricated or any other moving parts. So, in that case, there’s no need for an electric car oil change. Learn more about electric vehicles with the experts at Cornerstone Ford today! For more information, feel free to contact us anytime! 

Components of an Electric Car

Let’s check out some of the components on an electric car:

• Battery: The battery provides power to the vehicle’s drivetrain.

• Charge Port: This allows you to charge your vehicle by plugging it into a power source.

• DC/DC Converter: This allows your vehicle to convert higher voltage DC power from the battery into low voltage DC power to provide electricity to the various components of the vehicle. 

• Traction Motor: The traction motor provides power to the wheels using the power from the vehicle’s battery. Depending on which electric vehicle you choose, these traction motors could perform both the regeneration and driving capabilities of the vehicle. 

• Onboard Charger: The onboard charger takes the AC current from the vehicle’s power supply, and changes it into DC current so the battery can charge. 

• Thermal System: The vehicle’s thermal system ensures that a proper operating temperature is maintained.

Electric Engines: How Do They Work?

So, how do electric engines work? Electric engines are powered using magnets that convert electric current into being able to move mechanical parts. So, what are electrical currents? Electrical currents are moving groups of charged particles that develop a magnetic field. There are also magnetic fields on the other side of the magnet, and when the two magnetic fields interact with each other, they create torque. The torque is then delivered to the wheels of the car, providing the vehicle with the same abilities as if it was powered by a gas or diesel engine. 

Do Electric Cars Need Fluids?

Like any mechanical element, electric cars also need fluid. Let’s check out a couple of fluids needed for electric cars to operate properly:

Coolant

Electric motors can heat up quickly, which is why your vehicle needs coolant to manage the heat coming off of the lithium-ion battery. Similar to a gas vehicle, you should regularly check your coolant levels to make sure the battery and power inverter remains cool. 

Transmission Fluid

Many transmissions in electric vehicles, mostly multi-speed or direct drive often need their transmission fluid changed throughout the course of ownership. It’s best to consult your owner’s manual for the correct interval to change the transmission fluid. 

Learn More About Electric Vehicles at Cornerstone Ford!

Now that you know that you don’t need an electric car oil change, and we’ve answered the question “Do electric cars need oil?” come to Elk River to check out the various electric vehicles we have in stock. Browse our new vehicle inventory, and see how you can reserve the all-electric 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning today.