How to use the EV vs ICE Maintenance Cost Calculator
The Formula
ICE costs include oil, filters, spark plugs, timing belt amortization, engine fluids, and full friction brake service. EV costs include reduced brake wear (regenerative braking), brake fluid, cabin filter, battery coolant, tire rotation, and diagnostics. Optional battery replacement is a separate risk line—not annual service.
Practical Example
If estimated pack life falls inside your 5- or 10-year window, we add the replacement cost to cumulative EV spend. Many packs last 15+ years or are covered by warranty—treat this as a stress-test scenario, not a certainty.
About EV vs ICE Maintenance Cost Calculator
What we compare
ICE costs include oil, filters, spark plugs, timing belt amortization, engine fluids, and full friction brake service. EV costs include reduced brake wear (regenerative braking), brake fluid, cabin filter, battery coolant, tire rotation, and diagnostics. Optional battery replacement is a separate risk line—not annual service.
Battery replacement risk
If estimated pack life falls inside your 5- or 10-year window, we add the replacement cost to cumulative EV spend. Many packs last 15+ years or are covered by warranty—treat this as a stress-test scenario, not a certainty.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Are EVs maintenance-free? A: No—fluids and tires still matter. Q: Is battery cost included by default? A: Only when life expectancy is shorter than your comparison period. Q: Fleet use? A: Scale annual km to match utilization.