When three mechanics weighed in on whether gas or electric vehicles are more affordable, their differing opinions quickly sparked debate online.
On Sept. 16, Dartt Automotive (@dartt.automotive) captured the mechanics’ perspectives in a divisive video asking each mechanic which option they thought would save drivers the most money. The answers varied drastically, spotlighting a variety of potential cost barriers for both electric and gas vehicles.
What Did The Mechanics Say?
Each mechanic had a significantly different answer.
The first mechanic suspected that it depends on the vehicle, but that an electric vehicle would likely save more, as you won’t be paying for fuel.
However, he speculated that after 10 years, the cost of replacing the battery will likely be so expensive that it matches the price paid for the fuel. “After the 10-year mark, when they start having battery issues, that’s where you’re gonna make up for it,” he said.
“So I would say it depends on the vehicle, but I’d say with the EV, as long as you get one that’s a decent brand that has some history behind it.”
The second mechanic confidently stated that a gas vehicle would be more affordable, given the high cost of repairs for electric vehicles. “You’re still gonna have your tires wear and all your suspension and stuff, but once you have to replace the battery or maybe a major motor component, that’s gonna cost thousands and thousands of dollars.”
“Everybody’s paying for charging now, you know, so you aren’t grandfathered in like you used to be with Tesla, where it was free.“
It is true that before January 2017, Tesla Model S and Model X buyers received unlimited free Supercharging for the life of their car, and that this phase had been gradually phased out.
The third mechanic admitted that he hasn’t had too much experience with electric vehicles but said they still have problems. “It’s probably gonna be about equal. You’re gonna have problems with either or.”
Why Did Viewers Disagree So Strongly?
Many viewers were quick to rebut the mechanics in the comment section, with the comments overwhelmingly saying that the mechanics were incorrect about the maintenance costs and were underestimating how much would be saved from gas expenses.
“255,378 miles between two EVs,” read one comment. “Total maintenance cost excluding tires has been $340.”
“No radiator, no oil change, no gas, no muffler, exhaust system, I could keep going,” said another. “No questions, EV.”
“Who owns a car for 10 years? I think the longest I’ve ever owned a car is four years,” mentioned another.
Additionally, many commenters mentioned that even though Teslas no longer come with free supercharging, the cost is still significantly cheaper than gas, especially for those who purchase an at-home charger.
“Most people charge at home 99% of the time,” said a third. “EVs hardly ever need new brakes due to regenerative braking, and EV batteries commonly outlast engines and transmissions.”
The cost of an electric vehicle at home is indeed significantly less than the cost of gasoline. As of 2024, the cost of electricity used to charge a Tesla at home averages to $0.04 per mile, while the cost of gas vehicles averages to $0.14 per mile.
