Hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more popular than ever. Whether it's for their eco-friendly design, fuel efficiency, or just the high-tech appeal, these vehicles are leading the way toward a more sustainable future. But owning one of these advanced cars means you’ll need to know a few unique maintenance tips to keep them running efficiently. Although hybrids and EVs require less maintenance than traditional gasoline-powered cars, they still need some attention to stay in top shape. Here are some key tips for maintaining your hybrid or electric vehicle.
The Battery’s Health
The battery is the heart of any hybrid or electric vehicle. Ensuring its longevity is essential if you want your vehicle to perform well over time. So, how do you take care of such a crucial component? One of the best things you can do is avoid letting the battery run all the way down before charging it. Regularly charging your battery—without waiting for it to deplete—can extend its lifespan and help you avoid the costly replacement that comes with an overworked battery.
Another important factor is temperature. Both extreme heat and cold can negatively impact your car’s battery performance. Parking in shaded areas or using temperature control systems while charging can help reduce the strain caused by harsh weather conditions.
Brake Maintenance for Regenerative Braking Systems
Unlike traditional cars, hybrids and EVs often come with regenerative braking systems. These systems help recapture energy during braking and feed it back into the battery, making your vehicle more energy-efficient. However, even though regenerative brakes wear down more slowly than traditional brakes, they still need maintenance.
You’ll want to make sure that your brakes are checked during routine inspections to prevent wear and tear on the brake pads or rotors. Since regenerative braking reduces the need for hard braking, the parts tend to last longer, but keeping an eye on them is still critical for safety and performance.
Keep an Eye on the Tires
Regardless of whether your vehicle is electric, hybrid, or gas-powered, your tires remain an essential component of vehicle safety and performance. Hybrids and EVs often weigh more than traditional cars because of their larger batteries, which can place extra pressure on your tires. As a result, tire wear can happen faster if you don’t keep them properly inflated.
Regular tire inspections are a must for maintaining good fuel efficiency and ensuring a safe ride. Be sure to check the tire pressure monthly and rotate your tires as the manufacturer recommends. By doing so, you’ll improve your vehicle’s handling and extend the life of your tires.
Fluids Aren’t Totally Out of the Picture
Even though electric vehicles don’t have as many fluids as traditional gas-powered cars, they still need some attention. In hybrids, for example, engine oil is still necessary for the gasoline part of the vehicle. While EVs don’t need oil changes, they do require regular checks for other fluids such as brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, and coolant for the thermal management system that keeps the battery at an optimal temperature.
Regularly checking and refilling these fluids ensures that your vehicle continues to perform efficiently and prevents unnecessary wear on important components.
Software Updates
One of the coolest features of modern hybrid and electric vehicles is their sophisticated technology. The technology built into these cars can make driving more enjoyable and safer, from touchscreen displays to advanced driver assistance systems. But just like your smartphone, this tech needs regular software updates to keep everything running smoothly and up to date.
Most manufacturers release over-the-air updates that you can install yourself, but some software updates might require a visit to the dealership or repair shop. Always make sure you stay on top of these updates, as they can enhance your vehicle’s performance, improve energy efficiency, and fix bugs or glitches.
Don't wait until it's too late! Schedule your next maintenance appointment at Silvhorn Automotive and ensure your hybrid or electric vehicle stays in top shape with our comprehensive inspection and repair services.
