Your EV Service Questions, Answered

No. Under Canadian consumer protection law (and the Competition Act), a manufacturer cannot void your warranty simply because you had your vehicle serviced at an independent shop — as long as the work is performed to the manufacturer's specifications using the correct fluids, parts, and procedures. We document every service with your VIN on record and use manufacturer-specified materials.

We recommend a comprehensive EV inspection at least once per year or every 20,000 km to assess the vehicle's safety, maintenance requirements and overall condition. Following the inspection, you'll receive a professional Digital Vehicle Inspection Report documenting our findings. Tire rotation is recommended approximately every 10,000 km to help promote even tire wear, which is particularly important on heavier, high-torque electric vehicles. EVs generally have fewer routine service items than gas vehicles, but they still require regular maintenance. Depending on the manufacturer and model, this can include brake servicing and brake fluid, cabin and HEPA filters, low-voltage battery testing, drive unit fluids, thermal management coolant, tires, steering and suspension, and A/C system maintenance.

Yes and no. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) don't have an internal combustion engine, so they don't require traditional engine oil changes. However, they do have electric drive unit(s) containing specialized lubricating fluid, which may require inspection or servicing depending on the manufacturer and model. Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) still have a gasoline engine and therefore require regular engine oil and filter changes, in addition to maintenance of their hybrid and electric-drive systems. Whether you drive a BEV, PHEV or HEV, fluid condition and manufacturer-specific maintenance requirements should be checked as part of regular servicing.

While battery electric vehicles eliminate engine oil, they still use several important fluids. Depending on the make and model, these can include thermal management coolant for the high-voltage battery, electric motor(s) and power electronics, drive unit or reduction gear fluid, brake fluid, A/C refrigerant and windshield washer fluid. Some EVs have multiple coolant circuits and manufacturer-specific drive unit fluids that may have inspection or service requirements. We check all applicable fluid levels and condition where serviceable during regular EV servicing and recommend maintenance based on vehicle condition and manufacturer specifications.

Eligible repairs using NAPA parts are backed by the NAPA Peace of Mind Warranty — 3 years or 60,000 km, whichever comes first. Coverage applies to the parts and labour on those specific repairs. Ask us at the time of service which items qualify.

EVs are heavier than equivalent gas vehicles (due to the battery pack) and produce all of their torque instantly. Both factors accelerate tire wear compared to a gas vehicle of similar size. Tesla, for example, recommends tire rotation every 10,000–12,000 km — significantly more often than the 12,000–15,000 km typical for gas vehicles. Proper rotation intervals and correct alignment are essential to maximizing tire life on an EV.

Not necessarily — but EV-rated tires offer real advantages. They're built with higher load ratings (to handle battery weight), lower rolling resistance (to preserve range), and in many cases additional noise dampening (since the cabin is quieter without engine noise). Many OEM tire fitments on new EVs are already EV-rated. We can advise on the best replacement options for your specific vehicle and driving needs.