Hybrid Vehicle Maintenance Tips

Apr 29, 2024

Maintenance checklist for hybrid vehicles in Canada

Hybrid cars have gained popularity recently due to their fuel efficiency, eco-friendliness, and advanced technology.

In March 2024, electric vehicles met the threshold of 10 percent of vehicle sales in Canada for the first time.

Like any other vehicle, hybrids need regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and a long lifespan. This blog post will discuss the essential maintenance practices that will keep your hybrid car running smoothly for years.

Three main takeaways about hybrid vehicle maintenance:

Just like gas-powered vehicles, hybrid cars need to follow a maintenance schedule. They also still need oil changes!
The most expensive repair or replacement is the hybrid battery.
If you neglect to take care of your hybrid and experience issues, your provider will likely not provide claims support.

What’s on this page
Do hybrids cost more to maintain?
Do hybrids need oil changes?
What to expect with hybrid car maintenance
Hybrid vehicle maintenance schedule
How long does a hybrid car battery last?
Will insurance cover hybrid battery replacement?
Hybrid car maintenance FAQs

Do hybrids cost more to maintain?

Hybrid vehicles have different maintenance costs compared to traditional gasoline-powered cars. Although they usually require similar routine maintenance tasks like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections, there are some differences.

One factor to consider is the complexity of hybrid systems. Hybrids have a gasoline engine, an electric motor, a battery pack, and sophisticated control systems. This complexity can sometimes lead to higher repair costs if something needs to be fixed with the hybrid components. However, hybrids have regenerative braking systems that can reduce wear on brake pads and extend their lifespan. Also, because hybrids rely partially on electric power, they require less frequent fuel and oil changes, which can offset some maintenance costs.

Overall, whether hybrids cost more to maintain depends on various factors such as the specific make and model, driving habits, and how well the vehicle is maintained. It's always a good idea to research the maintenance costs of a particular hybrid model and consider factors like warranty coverage and fuel savings over time.

Do hybrids need oil changes?

A hybrid car runs on both gasoline and electricity. While it saves money on gas, it doesn't eliminate oil changes. Even though a hybrid car uses an electric motor, it still has a traditional combustion engine that requires regular maintenance, such as oil changes.

The oil change frequency depends on your vehicle model and can be found in your owner's manual. Typically, hybrids need an oil change every 5,000 to 8,000 kilometres.

What to expect with hybrid car maintenance

Here are seven key areas of maintenance you can expect to take care of.

Battery health: The hybrid car's battery pack is vital for fuel efficiency and longevity. Regularly check the battery's charge to ensure it's functioning optimally, and schedule a battery health check with a certified technician to identify issues early.
Fluid checks and changes: Hybrid cars need fluids to lubricate, cool, and function smoothly. Regularly check and replace engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid based on the manufacturer's recommendations to reduce friction, prevent overheating, and maintain efficiency.
Tires: Proper tire maintenance is crucial for safety and fuel efficiency in hybrid vehicles. Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure, rotate regularly for even wear, and invest in low-rolling-resistance tires for better fuel economy without compromising performance. Don’t forget those winter tires!
Brakes: Hybrid cars have regenerative braking that captures energy while slowing down. Inspect brakes regularly and replace worn brake pads for optimal performance and safety.
Engine: Hybrid cars use electric motors for propulsion but still have internal combustion engines that need maintenance. Follow the recommended schedule for tune-ups, spark plug replacements, air filter changes, and fuel system cleanings to maximize fuel efficiency and smooth operation, especially during highway driving.
Technology and software: Hybrid cars use advanced onboard computers to manage power distribution, enhance performance, and optimize fuel consumption. Stay updated with software upgrades offered by the manufacturer to address potential bugs, improve system reliability, and unlock new features.
Drive train: Have a certified technician inspect your hybrid car's drivetrain components, including the electric motor, transmission, and power electronics, for wear or malfunction. Early detection of issues can prevent costly repairs and ensure efficient and reliable performance.

Hybrid vehicle maintenance schedule

Creating a maintenance schedule for hybrid vehicles is crucial for optimal performance, longevity, and safety. Here is a comprehensive guide to hybrid vehicle maintenance:

Every 5,000 kilometres:

Check your engine oil regularly and monitor oil levels. If necessary, add oil as per the manufacturer's recommendations.
Inspect all the components of your hybrid system, including battery connections, cooling systems, and electric motors.
Perform a tire inspection by checking the tire pressure and tread depth. If the manufacturer recommends it, rotate your tires.

Every 10,000 kilometres:

Perform a brake inspection to check the condition of the brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid levels. If the brake pads are worn, replace them.
Inspect the suspension system for damage or wear, including the shocks, struts, and suspension components.
Monitor the battery's health using diagnostic tools or software provided by the manufacturer.

Every 20,000 kilometres:

Replace engine oil and oil filter according to manufacturer specifications.
Flush and replace engine coolant to prevent overheating and corrosion.
Inspect transmission fluid levels and condition, replace if necessary, and replace the engine air filter to maintain optimal air intake and fuel efficiency.

Every 40,000 kilometres:

Perform a comprehensive inspection of the hybrid battery system, including cells, modules, and connections.
Inspect the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system for leaks, blockages, or malfunctions.
Check wheel alignment and adjust if necessary to ensure even tire wear and optimal handling.

Every 60,000 kilometres:

Replace spark plugs according to manufacturer recommendations for optimal engine performance.
Flush and replace brake fluid to maintain brake system performance and prevent corrosion.
Conduct a performance test of the hybrid system to detect any potential issues or malfunctions.

Additional Maintenance:

Depending on the manufacturer's warranty and battery lifespan, consider replacing the hybrid battery as recommended.
Stay updated with manufacturer-recommended software updates for the hybrid system to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.
Regularly inspect and replenish the emergency kit in your vehicle, including jumper cables, flashlight, first aid kit, and other essentials.

Following this maintenance schedule diligently will help ensure your hybrid vehicle remains in top condition and provides optimal performance, efficiency, and safety as you drive.

How long does a hybrid car battery last?

Hybrid car batteries last around 160,000 to 240,000 km. Driving habits, weather, and maintenance affect their lifespan. Manufacturers offer warranties covering premature failure or significant capacity loss. Proper maintenance is crucial to prolong battery life, such as keeping it charged and avoiding extreme temperatures. Monitoring battery health can detect issues early. If the battery fails early, it may need replacement, which can be expensive.

If you need to repair a hybrid car battery, you could be looking at $2,000-$8,000. Even though it has the option of gasoline, a hybrid cannot work without a battery.

Will insurance cover hybrid battery replacement?

The cause of the damage to the battery will help clarify if your Ontario car insurance will cover battery repair or replacement. Coverage for hybrid battery replacement depends on the circumstances surrounding the damage or malfunction of the battery.

Insurance would not cover a hybrid battery if:

David's hybrid car battery is nearing the end of its lifespan, and he discovers that his insurance policy doesn't cover the cost of replacing it. The insurance company considers the battery's failure to be a routine maintenance issue, which is not covered. David explores alternative options for replacing the battery, acknowledging that regular maintenance is essential for vehicle ownership.

You would be covered if:

Ryan owns a hybrid car and commutes daily to downtown Toronto. One morning, he crashes into a lamppost due to black ice, damaging his car's battery. He has comprehensive coverage, so his insurance covers the battery replacement minus the deductible. An insurance adjuster confirms the damage, and Ryan provides the necessary documentation and works with an approved mechanic to replace the car's battery. Within days, his eco-friendly vehicle was back on the road, and he had support from his provider for repairs.

By looking at these two examples, we can learn that you need to take care of your vehicle or miss scheduled maintenance appointments, or else your policy will not help you in the event of a car insurance claim. However, depending on your policy limits and the cause of an accident, you can get support from your insurer to help with repairs.

Hybrid car maintenance FAQs

Do hybrid cars need to be serviced?

Hybrid cars need regular maintenance, including oil changes, brake inspections, tire rotations, and fluid checks. Specialized attention may also be required for hybrid-specific components. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity and prevents potential issues. Follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedule to keep the hybrid car running smoothly.

Do hybrid vehicles require more maintenance?

Hybrid vehicles require maintenance similar to gas cars but may need additional maintenance for hybrid-specific components such as the electric motor, battery, and regenerative braking system. These components may require specialized diagnostic tools and expertise for servicing, making maintenance slightly more complex than gas cars. With proper care, hybrid vehicles can offer reliable performance and fuel efficiency.

What is the most expensive repair on a hybrid?

Despite technological advancements, replacing a hybrid battery remains one of the costliest repairs for hybrid vehicles, costing around $2,000 to $10,000. Battery packs are complex and essential for electric propulsion systems. Over time, they can degrade due to age, usage patterns, and environmental conditions.

Just like fuel cars, hybrids need regular maintenance

Maximizing your hybrid car's efficiency, performance, and longevity requires proper maintenance. Don't forget to get hybrid car insurance to ensure you are covered for any unexpected events.

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