Do Transformers eat and sleep?

Everyday questions about Transformers are hugely popular on Reddit: what do they eat, do they sleep, do they get sick? The franchise gives surprisingly many answers.

Food

The Transformers' main 'food' is Energon. They drink it, fuel up with it or consume it as cubes. Some stories even have 'treats' — special kinds of Energon — and in the comics there are bars where Transformers relax with drinks.

Sleep

Transformers don't sleep like humans, but they need to recharge — a rest mode during which their systems recover. When badly damaged they fall into stasis, a deep 'sleep' that can last millions of years, like the Autobots aboard the Ark.

Illness

Transformers can 'get sick': from viruses, cosmic rust or poisoning by bad Energon. That's why medics like Ratchet are so important.

Why it matters

Such details make the world feel alive: Transformers aren't machines that simply switch on and off, but beings with their own needs, habits and weaknesses.