A common misconception in the automotive industry is that hybrid cars require vastly different routine maintenance than conventional vehicles. This is quite far from the truth. Hybrid vehicles have all of the same parts and systems that standard vehicles have since both types of vehicles sport internal combustion engines. Naturally, hybrid vehicles have electric systems as well which also require maintenance, but not nearly often as you might think.
The Hybrid Advantage
Again, most hybrid vehicle maintenance tasks are in line with conventional vehicles. The main difference we notice is that this maintenance, if anything, is needed less frequently for hybrid vehicles than it is for standard vehicles. This is often specifically true with engine maintenance. The combustion engines of hybrid vehicles undergo less wear and tear due to the fact that the electric motor takes over when idling and at low speeds. For this reason, hybrid vehicle owners only need to change their oil roughly every 5,000 miles, instead of 3,000 miles like many conventional vehicles.
Due to the regenerative braking system present in hybrid vehicles, their brakes often last longer as well. In some cases, brakes can even last up to 90,000 miles.
Standard Vehicle Maintenance
While there are parts of a hybrid that may last a bit longer, others will have the exact durability as their conventional counterparts. For example, you can expect to change your cabin air filter roughly every 15,000 miles. Additionally, you will want to be sure to get a tire rotation every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. This advice is valid for drivers of conventional, hybrid and electric vehicles.
Hybrid Specific Maintenance
Traditionally, additional maintenance to the hybrid specific parts of hybrid vehicles is not needed. The only thing to have in the back of your mind is the life of the main battery. These can cost a few thousand dollars to replace. However, they usually take at least 100,000 miles to fail. Luckily, they are often covered under warranty as well.
Maintain Your Hybrid Vehicle with Churchill Auto Care
If your hybrid vehicle needs maintenance, give us a call! We offer excellent service at a fair price for all of your automotive maintenance and repair needs. To schedule an appointment, please visit our site or give us a call at (301) 620-7620.