Hybrid vehicles continue to grow in popularity – and for good reason. But how does servicing a hybrid differ from maintaining a conventional petrol car, or even a fully electric one? The short answer is that hybrids come with their own set of unique components and challenges, blending the worlds of combustion engines and electric motors.
If you own a hybrid or are thinking of making the switch, here’s a breakdown of what makes a hybrid car service different to your current one.
HYBRID CAR SERVICE: A BALANCING ACT
Servicing a hybrid vehicle isn’t just about checking the usual fluids and filters. Hybrids combine two systems; a petrol engine and an electric motor. Mechanics have to address both sides of this equation, and this means hybrid servicing requires a blend of traditional car maintenance skills and more specialised knowledge of electric vehicles.
While many of the servicing tasks are familiar, the presence of EV batteries, regenerative power systems and complex electricals adds an extra layer of complexity.
UNIQUE CHALLENGES IN A HYBRID CAR SERVICE
So, what exactly sets hybrid servicing apart? Let’s look at the main challenges:
BATTERY MAINTENANCE
At the heart of any hybrid vehicle is its battery. Unlike conventional car batteries, these are designed to store and release large amounts of energy, and are clustered together in different parts of the car. Regular checks ensure they’re functioning optimally, as issues with hybrid batteries can significantly impact performance and fuel economy – and they can lead to fires if they’re damaged or faulty.
Some hybrid models also feature normal 12V batteries and alternators, to power auxiliary systems just like in an ICE car. These shouldn’t be overlooked, either.
REGENERATIVE BRAKING SYSTEMS
Hybrids use regenerative braking, to convert the energy from braking into electricity that recharges the battery. The system itself requires inspection to ensure it’s functioning correctly.
SPECIALISED TEMPERATURE CONTROL SYSTEMS
Hybrid vehicles often use additional cooling and heating systems to keep the electric motor and battery at optimal running temperatures. These systems need to be regularly checked; cold batteries die quickly, and excessive heat can cause performance issues, too.
SOFTWARE UPDATES
Like EVs, hybrids rely on advanced software – only this time, the software also has to manage the transition between petrol and electric power. Regular diagnostics will keep the vehicle’s software up-to-date and free from glitches or cyber attack vulnerability.
SPECIALISED TOOLS AND TRAINING
Servicing hybrids sometimes needs specific tools and training. Not all mechanics are trained to service hybrids, so it’s essential to choose a garage with hybrid expertise.
HOW DO HYBRIDS COMPARE TO ELECTRIC AND PETROL CARS?
Compared to conventional petrol and diesel cars, hybrids need fewer oil changes, as their petrol engines run less than in traditional cars – but the complexity of dual systems makes them more labour-intensive to service.
And while hybrids share many components with EVs, like batteries and electric motors, they also have the added complication of an internal combustion engine. This means hybrids generally need more servicing than EVs, which have fewer moving parts.
This might sound like a worst of both worlds scenario. But there’s good news…
SHOULD YOU WORRY ABOUT HYBRID CAR SERVICING COSTS?
The good news is that hybrid servicing costs aren’t as daunting as they might seem. While battery-related repairs can be pricey, they’re relatively rare if the car is well-maintained. In fact, hybrids tend to have lower long-term maintenance costs than petrol or diesel cars because their engines experience less wear and tear.
Choosing a garage with hybrid expertise will help you make sure you’re not paying for unnecessary work, or risking damage from improper servicing.
Hybrid vehicles are marvels of engineering, with impressive fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. If you own a hybrid, staying on top of regular maintenance not only keeps your car running smoothly but also protects you – and if you’re thinking about switching to a hybrid, finding the right garage makes all the difference in keeping your vehicle in top shape!
BOOK A CAR SERVICE WITH MASTER TECH AUTOS
When it comes to hybrids, knowledge is power: both under the bonnet and on the road. Call 023 8061 1161 or contact us to book your hybrid car service with Master Tech Autos.