How Often Should the Gear Oil in an Electric Vehicle Be Changed?
2 Answers
Electric vehicle gear oil should be changed every two years. Below is more information about gear oil: 1. Function: Gear oil primarily refers to the lubricating oil for transmissions and rear axles. It differs from engine oil in terms of usage conditions, composition, and performance. Gear oil mainly serves to lubricate gears and bearings, prevent wear and corrosion, and assist in heat dissipation for gears. 2. Introduction: Gear oil should have excellent anti-wear and load-bearing properties, as well as appropriate viscosity. Additionally, it should possess good thermal oxidation stability, anti-foaming properties, water separation performance, and rust prevention. 3. Classification: Gear oil is divided into two categories: automotive gear oil and industrial gear oil. The former is used to lubricate various manual transmissions and gear drive shafts in vehicles, while the latter is used for lubricating gear devices in industries such as metallurgy, coal mining, cement, and chemical processing.
I've been driving for many years, with several years of experience in electric vehicles, and I've found that the gear oil change interval is crucial. Generally, electric vehicle manuals recommend changing it every 50,000 to 80,000 kilometers or around 5 years, depending on the model and driving habits. I drive a Tesla Model 3, and the manual states that the oil should be changed at 60,000 kilometers. Once, I delayed the change until 70,000 kilometers, and the reducer started making abnormal noises due to insufficient lubrication, leading to wear and expensive repairs. I recommend checking the oil level and color early; if it turns black or thickens, change it ahead of schedule. Use genuine synthetic oil to extend gear life and maintain smooth driving. Remember, regular maintenance is essential—don’t neglect it, as it benefits both the vehicle's safety and performance.
