EV Repairs Cost More and Take Longer Than Petrol Cars, Data Shows

Electric vehicles (EVs) incur higher repair costs and longer workshop durations compared to traditional petrol, diesel, and hybrid cars, according to recent data. An analysis of over 40,000 vehicle repairs conducted between March 2025 and February 2026 revealed that the average repair cost for an EV is 19.2% higher than for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, amounting to £6,363 compared to £5,338. Furthermore, EVs spent an average of 25 days in repair workshops, 8.7% longer than ICE vehicles, which typically required 23 days.

These findings challenge the common perception that EVs are simpler and cheaper to repair due to fewer moving parts. The increased repair burden for EVs is attributed to more costly components and the necessity of calibration, even for minor repairs. The data suggests this trend is placing a strain on the automotive repair sector, potentially leading to increased costs for motorists and insurers.

The United Kingdom is a significant market for EVs, with over 473,000 battery electric vehicles registered in 2025. By May 2026, nearly a quarter of new car registrations were for EVs. Despite this growth, the auto repair industry faces challenges in adapting to the technological shift.

Concerns about a shortage of qualified technicians capable of safely working on EVs are mounting. A survey of mechanics indicated that a significant majority would not recommend switching to an EV, citing battery replacement costs, limited driving range, and inadequate charging infrastructure as primary reasons. Among mechanics with EV repair experience, three in five found them more difficult to fix than ICE vehicles, with only one in ten finding them easier.

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The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has previously warned that the number of mechanics with EV qualifications is not keeping pace with the increasing number of EVs on the road. Projections suggest a significant skills shortfall could emerge by the early 2030s, potentially reaching over 43,000 technicians by 2035, if current training trajectories do not change dramatically. This projected shortage coincides with the planned phase-out of new petrol and diesel vehicle sales.

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Technicians also expressed concerns about the long-term repairability of newer EV models entering the market, including those from Chinese manufacturers. More than three-quarters of respondents in one survey believe EVs will become more costly to maintain in the long run compared to their ICE counterparts, with nearly six in ten anticipating they will be 'much more expensive' to maintain. The study highlighted that while consumers often focus on fuel savings and environmental benefits, mechanics are also considering repairability and the development of supporting infrastructure.

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