The electric car has fewer moving parts than its combustion engine equivalent. It also requires less maintenance. Regardless, it would prove less reliable, according to certain consumer groups (Consumer Reports and Which?). And more complex to repair also because of its more sophisticated software.
Electric vehicle software requires a diagnosis that few technicians are able to perform today. “Especially outside the network of authorized dealers,” recognizes Patrice Lemire, general director of the Joint Automobile Committee of the Quebec-Lévis region.
“Currently, servicing an electric vehicle is seen more as a specialty almost exclusive to dealerships, but this is set to evolve. »
Electric vehicles are only starting to make their presence felt on our roads and most of them are still under warranty. This still leaves time to prepare for the training of new technicians, but also for brands and mechanics who are wondering whether or not they are investing in this sector.
Patrice Lemire, general director of the Joint Automobile Committee of the Quebec-Lévis region
Danielle Le Chasseur, general director of the Automotive Services Sectoral Workforce Committee, does not quite share the same optimism. “There is still a lot to do in terms of training. We had to jump on a train that was already moving. » She says she regrets that the Quebec government did not involve all industry stakeholders before decreeing that new automobiles will only be electric from 2035. “This announcement had the effect of a tsunami, she admits. There is so much to do and this technology is far from having reached its full maturity. »
As the training takes shape and is refined, there are other obstacles to overcome. That of recruitment is one. Currently, a qualified auto technician earns around $90,000 per year. “Whoever specializes in electric vehicles will earn this amount much more quickly,” thinks Mr. Lemire.
Already, many car dealerships offer a higher hourly rate for electric vehicles. In addition to the technician’s salary, this price also takes into account tools, rearrangement of the workshop, equipment, etc.
Labor, the differentiator
Electric vehicles cost less to maintain, but not to repair, according to a study by JD Powers in 2021. It is not the cost of parts that is the issue, but rather the time required to establish a diagnosis that is more long.
For the same fault, the origin of the breakdown can be multiple. This can come from the central software, the 12 V battery (additional only) as well as electronic assistance, including the energy recovery system. And, once the problem is contained – it sometimes takes days, some readers told us The Press –, we carry out the repair. But first, certain safety rules must be observed to avoid electric shocks and fires. Moreover, this is the first module that we teach.