Repairs are more expensive on electric cars, and that’s normal

It’s easy to fall into anti-EV sensationalism. The truth is that repairs are expensive, but costs are expected to decrease.

It is now clear that the repair costs for electric cars are higher than those for internal combustion models. A recent study by the Automotive Safety and Repair Association (SRA) reveals that the costs of restoring electrified vehicles are, on average, 15% higher than those of conventional cars. However, this reality will change as technology matures and the industry gains experience.

Among the main reasons for this higher cost, batteries stand out. They often account for 40% or more of the total vehicle price. Additionally, in the event of an accident, experts often prefer to replace the entire pack for safety reasons due to the risk of fire, leading to significant costs. Finally, electrified vehicles, still new to the market, require specialized expertise that few mechanics fully possess today.

Inflation has no preferred energy

Because the study also highlights a global increase in repair costs since 2020. The price of spare parts has soared by 29%, paint by 27%, and labor by 21%. These increases affect all models, regardless of their engine types. Thus, seemingly simple interventions, like replacing a windshield or a mirror, can quickly add up to significant amounts.

However, these costs are not fixed. Over time, the normalization of electrified technologies should lead to a decrease in the cost of spare parts and better technical mastery on the part of repairers. The automotive industry, like insurers, is already working to make these vehicles more accessible to maintain. Furthermore, the market is moving towards an inevitable transition. As of today, electric vehicles represent an increasing share of automobile accidents. This forces industry players to adapt quickly. The current observation of a high bill for electric repairs is therefore likely to change radically in the coming years.

In summary, although the repair costs for electrified cars are currently a hard reality to ignore, this situation is only temporary. With the maturation of technology and accumulated experience, drivers can hope for a significant reduction in costs in the near future.

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