Hybrid Car Maintenance

Photo by Marc Heckner

Originally Posted On: 5 Helpful Hybrid Car Maintenance Tips – Christian’s Automotive

Want to keep your hybrid car working its best?

Hybrid cars have become more popular in recent years. They’re better for gas milage because they run on gasoline and electricity. There here were over 5.4 Million hybrid cars sold in the US as of 2019.

Planning to buy a hybrid car?

Hybrid car maintenance is as essential as the maintenance of a normal car. Since they have an internal combustion engine, you need to keep a closer eye on them. Here are 5 tips to keep your hybrid car running.

Just like all combustion engines, you need to keep an eye on your fluids. A hybrid still requires proper oil levels and regular oil changes. If you don’t know how to check these, it’s best to go to a mechanic for help. This includes the coolant, engine oil, and brake fluid. Look for a mechanic that specializes in hybrid cars. Don’t neglect to check in on your EV, which has coolants and brake fluids.

Hybrid cars have built-in batteries for power storage. They can travel 15-50 miles on a fully-charged battery before gasoline kicks in. Maintaining proper battery life begins with using the battery. To help the battery “remember” its capacity, it is best to regularly drain the battery and then recharge it to full capacity. Eventually your main battery will need to be replaced. The lifespan of most hybrid batteries is 7-10 years. This is something to consider when you are deciding to buy a hybrid vehicle. In cold weather, you may need to keep your battery warm to get the best performance out of it. If you don’t drive your hybrid regularly, you may need to consider storing it in a warmer garage or buying a heater to maintain temperature.

All hybrid cars have different cooling systems installed on them. Like a standard automobile, some form of radiator system and coolant are in use. Over time coolant breaks down and deposits occur within the radiator. If this happens, you can flush out its system and refill it with clean fluid.

Like all vehicles, hybrid car tires also wear out. Conduct a regular maintenance check and inspect for any signs of your tires. Be sure to take note of the tire’s pressure and has a tread depth reading of 2/32. Try the penny test. If the tire tread does not reach Lincoln’s head, it is time for new tires.

Most hybrids have two kinds of battery. The mass storage battery that powers the electric motor and a standard car battery that starts the internal combustion engine. Like on standard vehicles, this auxiliary car battery requires maintenance and needs to be replaced about every 5 years.

Having your car checked often is the best way to spend less money. Use these hybrid car maintenance tips to keep your car running in the best condition possible.

Have any more questions about car maintenance? Looking for a NAPA AutoCare center in Albuquerque, New Mexico? Contact us today, and we’ll answer all your questions and concerns about caring for your hybrid car.