Do EVs and Hybrids Need Brake Service?

Electric and hybrid vehicles are increasingly common around Lincoln Park and Lakeview — Teslas, Priuses, RAV4 Hybrids and more. A common assumption is that because they use regenerative braking, the brakes never wear out. The reality is more interesting.

Regenerative braking does reduce pad wear

EVs and hybrids slow down partly by using the electric motor to recover energy, which means the physical brake pads are used less than in a gas car. Pads and rotors often last longer as a result — a real perk.

But that creates a different problem: rust and seizing

Because the pads and rotors are used so lightly, they can rust and corrode from sitting — especially with Chicago's road salt and humidity. Calipers and slide pins can seize from lack of use. So instead of wearing out, EV/hybrid brakes tend to need cleaning, lubrication, and corrosion service to keep working properly.

What an EV/hybrid brake inspection may cover

• Cleaning surface rust from rotors
• Lubricating caliper slide pins and hardware
• Checking for seized calipers and uneven wear
• Brake fluid testing (it still absorbs moisture over time)

For EV or hybrid brake work, call with the year, make and model to confirm current service capability, inspection scope and scheduling. See our Chicago brake service details.

Frequently Asked Questions