Hybrid Auto Maintenance & Car Care Tips

Owning a hybrid vehicle can be very rewarding. However, routine auto maintenance is more imperative with hybrids than traditional combustion vehicles. Schedule your hybrid auto maintenance service intervals on time for the hybrid battery and regenerative braking to prevent potentially expensive repairs. Find additional helpful and cost-saving hybrid car care tips below.

Routine Hybrid Auto Maintenance

Before we delve into specifics, let’s start with the basics. Checking your vehicle’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals for your hybrid is the first step. In this section, we’ll cover some typical inspections and services that are regularly required. While some are safe to do at home, a trained hybrid maintenance technician should handle the rest.

Hybrid Battery Care & Electronics

Most hybrids have two batteries: 

• A standard (safe) 12-volt battery to power the low-voltage electrical system. 
• A maintenance-free (dangerous) high-voltage battery (which can be more than 100 volts).

When you suspect issues with your hybrid battery or electronics, scheduling a diagnostic service is crucial. A trained hybrid technician will locate and repair the problem safely.   

Regenerative Braking System

Regenerative braking in hybrid cars reduces wear on brake components, increasing their life span. However, they should still have regular inspections since your driving style, road conditions, and other factors may impact their wear.

Hybrid Oil Change

Your hybrid still requires an oil change. However, the frequency may be less often than that of a regular, non-hybrid car. Check your owner’s manual for the suggested service mileage/time markers for oil changes and follow them.

Oil Weight

Hybrid cars have unique maintenance needs, such as using a lower-weight oil (usually 0W-20). Check your owner’s manual for your specific vehicle’s oil weight to ensure you provide the proper care for your hybrid.

Fluid Levels

Hybrids still use an internal combustion engine, using the same fluids that a traditional vehicle uses. They also use fluids specific to electric and hybrid models. Routinely inspect the levels of the following fluids:

• Engine oil
• Coolant/Antifreeze (may be more than one cooling system)
• Brake fluid
• Transmission fluid (if applicable)
• Power steering fluid
• Reduction gear oil

Hybrid Cooling Systems

The engine’s cooling system operates with a mixture of antifreeze and water to keep it cool. Most hybrid models also have a dedicated cooling system for the electronics and regenerative braking system. Electric and hybrid vehicles can generate a lot of heat under regular operation. Make frequent inspections to ensure all the coolant levels are topped off. If you notice your hybrid overheating, immediately bring it in for a diagnostic service to prevent a possible engine fire.

Wheels & Tires

Regular tire inspections and maintenance are vital for the safety and performance of your hybrid. Check for excessive wear, uneven tread, cracks, or bulges, and maintain the correct tire pressure. Follow the wheel alignment and tire balancing recommendations in your owner’s manual or whenever you replace your tires, have an accident, or notice steering vibrations.

Dashboard Warning Lights

When dashboard warning lights alert you of a problem, check your owner’s manual to see if you can fix it or if a service is required. Ignoring problems may cause excessive damage to your hybrid’s electrical components, batteries, and cooling systems.

Car Care Tips

Get Your Hybrid Clean & Organized

Now that your hybrid is running like new, focus on other ways to prepare your vehicle for all the challenges that busy schedules can bring.

Wash & Wax Exterior

A good wash and wax protect the paint and clear coat from premature damage (sun, bird droppings, bugs).

Clean & Vacuum Interior

A clean car restores order to both body and mind and helps improve fuel economy by reducing excess weight. 

• Remove any trash, and put stray items where they belong. 
• Give the seats, floors, floor mats, and trunk a thorough vacuuming. 
• Wipe away any remaining dust, dirt, and sticky residue off all the surfaces with a car-specific cleaner. 
• Clean the mirrors and windows with a streak-free glass cleaner.

Organize

Organize the interior to make room for essential items used daily on your commute. Create a safe space for an emergency kit, tools, and other supplies needed in an emergency.

Choose A Trained Hybrid Technician

Your hybrid is a well-designed machine that requires routine maintenance to run smoothly and correctly. Most hybrids require specialized equipment and extensive training for diagnosing, servicing, and repairing safely. To protect your investment and ensure the longevity of your vehicle, find a qualified hybrid technician. This will not only give you peace of mind but also ensure that your hybrid receives the best possible care.

Hybrid Auto Maintenance in Kirkland, WA

Here at Fisher’s Auto Service, we understand hybrid maintenance. Prius, Insight, CRZ, and other hybrids have unique issues that can cause them to operate less efficiently. Our highly-trained hybrid technicians will address your hybrid battery and regenerative braking needs.

Schedule A Hybrid Auto Maintenance Service

Call us at (425)441-3626, drive to our shop, or make an appointment online for a day and time that works best for you! Schedule a Hybrid Auto Maintenance to have us inspect your car’s Hybrid Battery and Regenerative Braking.