Electric vehicles
how to find the best electric vehicle repair shops
By Evelyn Reed
Published: 06 Mar 2025
My Electric Car's Near-Death Experience
Let me start with a confession: I'm a bit of a klutz. So when I accidentally backed into a low-hanging branch and ripped a chunk out of my electric car's bumper, I knew I was in trouble. My heart sank – not only because of the damage, but also because I had absolutely no idea where to find a reliable EV repair shop. It felt like finding a needle in a haystack, only this haystack was filled with confusing jargon, varying reviews, and what felt like a million different options. That's why I'm sharing my journey and tips with you all. It could save you some serious stress, I promise!
damaged electric vehicle bumper | Image: Supplied
Finding the Right EV Mechanic: It's Not as Easy as it Sounds
First, let's face it: finding a good mechanic is hard, period. But when you're dealing with a sophisticated electric car, it gets even trickier. Unlike regular gas-powered vehicles, EVs have specialized components that need technicians with the right training and tools. I started by searching online—'EV repair near me' – and quickly got overwhelmed. Websites, Google reviews, and online forums flooded my screen, many reviews were polar opposites of each other. Some places claimed to fix everything, while others specialized in specific brands. So how do you make sense of it all and find someone who knows their stuff?
mechanic working on electric car | Image: Supplied
Look for EV-Specific Certifications and Expertise
This is where things get really important. Look for shops that specifically advertise expertise in electric vehicle repair. Some dealerships offer EV service, but they can be expensive! Some independent garages have technicians certified to work on EVs. Don't just take their word for it—ask to see certifications or proof of training. Look for workshops that list brands they are specifically qualified to repair on their sites, and don't be afraid to ask questions about their experience with your particular make and model. My friend, Sarah, had a nightmare trying to find someone to fix her Tesla, eventually opting for a Tesla dealership. Its expensive, but a reliable choice.
ev certification | Image: Supplied
Check Online Reviews, But Don't Rely on Them Entirely
Online reviews can be helpful, but it is very easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of varied and sometimes conflicting information available online. Take them with a grain of salt. A single bad review doesn't automatically disqualify a shop, but a pattern of negative feedback should raise a red flag. Look for reviews that mention specific details about the service, not just generic praise or complaints. I was surprised that the really negative reviews often lacked specifics. What exactly went wrong? This lack of detail really made me question the credibility of that review.
online reviews | Image: Supplied
Ask Around and Get Recommendations
Word-of-mouth is still incredibly powerful, especially in the EV world. Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues who drive EVs. See if they have any recommendations. I wish I'd done this before my frantic online search. A friendly recommendation can save a ton of time and potential headaches. You could join online EV forums too, to get additional options. Many Facebook groups are geared towards specific car brands.
people talking about cars | Image: Supplied
Don't Hesitate to Ask Questions
Before you commit to a repair shop, call and ask questions. A reputable shop will be happy to answer your questions, and will know what to say to assist you. I asked about their experience with my particular car model, their warranty policies, and their average turnaround time. These are simple questions that can give you a lot of insight. Ask about diagnostics fees too!
person on phone | Image: Supplied
Compare Prices, But Don't Just Go for the Cheapest
Once you've narrowed down your choices, get quotes from a few different shops. It's natural to want the best price, but be cautious of prices that are too good to be true. Sometimes, low prices can signal lower quality parts or insufficient expertise. I ended up paying slightly more than the cheapest quote, but the peace of mind and quality of service were well worth it, I can tell you that.
comparing prices | Image: Supplied
Trust Your Gut
After all is said and done, trust your instincts. Did the shop make you feel comfortable? Were they responsive and helpful? Did their answers to your questions make sense? A good relationship with your mechanic is crucial, especially when dealing with complex repairs. I found a shop that gave me a really good vibe, which is why I ultimately chose them. Plus, they fixed my car perfectly!
happy customer and mechanic | Image: Supplied
