How to Maintain Your Hybrid Car

Hybrid and electric cars are increasingly becoming popular, and it's easy to see why; there are many benefits that come with switching to a hybrid car. One of the most significant selling points of these vehicles is their reduced impact on the environment, particularly in this era of emissions concerns. Furthermore, hybrid cars are likely to cost less to operate in the long run. While the upfront purchase price might be slightly higher than that of a traditional model, the less maintenance and fuel costs are likely to recoup the initial outlay.

However, due to their complex engines and components, hybrid cars can be a little more challenging to maintain than conventional vehicles. These vehicles require unique care to keep them running efficiently and effectively. Here are seven maintenance tips you need to follow to get the most out of your hybrid car.

Check the engine oil level regularly

Just like a standard car, a hybrid requires regular oil changes. How many miles to wait between oil changes depends on your car model.

Like most vehicles, manufacturers generally recommend that you change the oil every 3,000 miles, especially if you use traditional or natural oil in your hybrid car. However, you can increase the duration between oil changes to 5,000 or 7,000 miles if you switch to synthetic oil.

Engine oil lasts longer in a hybrid car than in a regular vehicle. Your hybrid car will turn off the engine's power when you are driving at a low speed. This allows the engine to run longer without requiring lubrication, increasing the life of the oil in your car.

Take good care of the battery

The battery is one of your hybrid car's most expensive but essential parts. Therefore, understanding battery care and charging is critical to the proper maintenance of your hybrid vehicle. Fortunately, taking good care of your car's battery is relatively easy.

Essentially, keep the battery charged between 20% and 80%. The more you charge your car's battery to 100%, the quicker it will begin to degrade. On the other hand, if you leave it at less than 20%, it will start to degrade much more quickly. The good news is that most hybrid cars have settings that allow you to choose when you would like to charge the battery and how much it should be charged.

Like any other battery-powered device, hybrid cars' batteries don't like extreme temperatures. Park your hybrid vehicle in a garage at night to keep it warm (but not too hot), especially during chilly winter. While cold weather won't degrade your car's battery, it can reduce its range.

Regularly driving your car is also vital in maintaining the performance and extending the lifespan of your hybrid vehicle's battery. Hybrid car batteries are designed to last up to 10 years, so ensure you get plenty of activity out of the battery before replacing it.

Keep a close eye on the tires

Whether you drive a gas-powered car or an EV, it is essential to ensure the tires are in good condition and swap them as the seasons change. However, good tire maintenance is particularly important if you really want to enjoy the benefits of owning a hybrid vehicle.

Even if you drive the latest hybrid vehicle, overinflated or underinflated tires can compromise your car's performance and fuel efficiency. Therefore, regularly check the state of your vehicle's tires and keep them inflated to the recommended pressure.

In addition, rotate your car tires regularly for even wear. Depending on your driving habits, you should rotate the tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. Consider rotating them sooner if you hear strange noises or notice uneven wear.

Hybrid cars often have low-rolling-resistance tires for better fuel economy. Therefore, check with your car service center to ensure you have the right tires fitted for your hybrid vehicle.

Clean and replace air filters

A hybrid vehicle comes with two essential filters: the battery air filter and the engine air filter. The battery air filter is located in the intake system of the battery park. Its main function is to ensure that only clean air is supplied to the battery pack, which helps prevent contaminants from getting into the battery pack's system.

On the other hand, the engine air filter helps filter out debris, dirt, dust, and other dangerous particles from the air that might enter your car's engine and cause clogging. When the engine gets clogged with dirt, it can lead to overheating, which might reduce your car battery's effectiveness and lifespan.

Keeping these air filters clean is vital for the longevity and performance of your hybrid car. Clean your air filters at least once every six months and replace them with new ones if they are extremely dirty or damaged.

Practice mindful driving habits

Adopting mindful driving habits is one of the best ways to ensure your hybrid car runs efficiently. Starting and stopping your vehicle frequently while in stop-and-go traffic is okay. However, repeatedly doing so can wear out the transmission components and the charging system, significantly reducing fuel efficiency.

In addition, since newer models are equipped with regenerative braking systems that recharge the battery when you break down, frequent stop-starting can wear these systems faster. That means you will need to visit your local hybrid repair shop more frequently.

Drive smart while on the roads and accelerate gently. Maintaining a steady speed can enhance fuel efficiency by up to 14%. Since excessive weight in your car can reduce fuel economy, avoid carrying unnecessary cargo. According to the Department of Energy, an extra 100 pounds on your vehicle can reduce fuel efficiency by about 1%.

Keep up with routine maintenance schedule

No matter the type of your car, implementing a comprehensive care schedule is one of the best ways to extend the life of your ride and ensure optimal performance and safety. However, before you establish the proper maintenance schedule for your hybrid car, you should take a few steps first.

First, read your car owner's manual to know the specifications of your current vehicle and any other essential information. Then, consult a professional mechanic to develop a maintenance schedule tailored to your hybrid car. That way, you will be sure you are taking all the necessary precautions to get the most wear out of your vehicle.

Purchasing a hybrid car from a reputable dealership can help you keep on top of your vehicle's maintenance. Most dealers offer capped servicing price plans for all new cars, which ensures that there won't be any surprises in service costs for the first few years of your vehicle's life.

Find a reliable hybrid car repair shop

Electric and hybrid cars have highly sophisticated electrical components that are more complex than regular gas-powered vehicles. Since some mechanics might not be familiar with hybrid technology, it's good to find a repair shop specializing in hybrid cars whenever you need repairs or maintenance. A reliable repair shop uses high-quality parts and can help keep your hybrid vehicle running smoothly and efficiently for an extended time.

Conclusion

Maintaining your hybrid ride doesn't have to be a daunting task. Follow these essential tips, and you can be sure your hybrid vehicle will run efficiently and effectively for some years to come.

However, taking good care of your hybrid car is just one way to protect your ride. Accidents can still happen no matter how top you are on your car maintenance. Therefore, consider getting auto insurance to ensure you are covered for unexpected events.