Even a BYD electric car requires regular maintenance. Although there are no oil changes, spark plugs or exhaust systems to deal with, the brakes, suspension, climate control and high-voltage system still need to be inspected. It is particularly important to follow the requirements that apply to your specific model and to keep clear records of all work performed.
What maintenance intervals apply to BYD vehicles?
BYD does not use a single maintenance interval for all vehicles. Intervals may vary depending on the model, model year, powertrain variant and market in which the vehicle was sold. The digital or printed service booklet, owner's manual and warranty terms for the vehicle are therefore always authoritative.
Maintenance is generally due based on time or mileage. Whichever limit is reached first applies. This means that even a vehicle driven only a short distance must still be taken to a workshop by the scheduled date. Under demanding operating conditions, such as frequent short trips, high dust exposure or intensive trailer use, additional inspections may be advisable or required.
The authoritative source is not a general BYD statement found online, but the maintenance schedule for the specific vehicle identification number.
Anyone buying a used BYD should ask the dealer to confirm the maintenance schedule. This is particularly relevant if the car was imported or if the servicing requirements have changed in the meantime.
What is checked during maintenance?
The scope depends on the particular service appointment. However, a typical inspection involves considerably more than a visual check of the battery.
| Component | Typical work |
|---|---|
| Braking system | Inspect pads, discs, lines and brake fluid |
| High-voltage system | Check connections, cables, diagnostic fault memory and warning messages |
| 12-volt system | Test the battery condition and electrical system |
| Suspension and tires | Check tread depth, tire pressure, joints, bearings and steering |
| Cooling and climate control | Inspect coolant circuits, heat pump and air-conditioning system |
| Body | Inspect the underbody, corrosion, seals and damage |
| Software | Read the diagnostic fault memory and apply available updates as appropriate |
Regenerative braking reduces the use of the mechanical brakes → brake discs may therefore be more prone to rust when used infrequently. Regular, controlled braking with the service brakes can help, provided traffic conditions and the manufacturer's instructions allow it.
Does a BYD have to be serviced at an authorized workshop?
For routine maintenance in Germany, there is generally no blanket requirement to use only an authorized BYD service partner. However, an independent workshop must carry out the inspection professionally and in accordance with the manufacturer's current specifications, use suitable parts and operating fluids, and document every step of the work.
Advantages of an authorized BYD workshop
- Access to model-specific diagnostic equipment, service information and software
- Direct handling of recalls, warranty claims and technical service actions
- Experience with the high-voltage system and BYD-specific components
Potential advantages of an independent workshop
- Depending on the business, lower labor costs and a shorter journey
- Freedom to choose from approved replacement parts
- A personal point of contact at a workshop specializing in electric vehicles
The independent workshop should be specifically qualified to work on electric vehicles. Software updates, recall work and repairs to the high-voltage system may require special manufacturer access or equipment. Such work is often easier to carry out at an authorized BYD facility.
How does the choice of workshop affect the warranty?
Having an inspection performed by an independent workshop does not automatically void the manufacturer's warranty in full. However, if damage is caused by incorrect maintenance, unsuitable parts or a missed service interval, BYD may reject the relevant warranty claim. The decisive factor is whether there is a connection between the maintenance failure and the damage.
This must be distinguished from statutory rights relating to defects under German law, which are claims against the seller. These exist independently of a voluntary manufacturer's warranty. Warranty terms may contain additional requirements, such as documentation obligations or specific rules concerning paintwork, rust perforation, the high-voltage battery and roadside assistance services.
The specific coverage periods and mileage limits may vary depending on the model, initial registration date and country of sale. Owners should therefore check their vehicle's warranty booklet rather than relying on information for another BYD model. The battery warranty may also be subject to conditions relating to its measurable state of health, use and professional diagnosis.
How to keep maintenance and warranty records clear
- Check the maintenance schedule using the vehicle identification number and model year.
- Book an appointment before the time or mileage limit expires.
- Instruct the workshop to follow the BYD maintenance schedule.
- Keep the invoice, description of the work, part names and recorded mileage.
- Check the service entry in the digital or printed record.
- Also ask an authorized BYD partner about recalls and technical service actions.
For a leased vehicle, the requirements of the lease agreement also apply. It may require the use of an authorized workshop even if this is not generally necessary to preserve the manufacturer's warranty. Before the first inspection, it is therefore worth checking the maintenance schedule, warranty booklet and lease agreement.
