How To Maintain A Hybrid Car

How To Maintain A Hybrid Car

Hybrid and electric vehicles are growing increasingly popular, and it doesn't take a genius to figure out why. There are so many benefits associated with switching to a hybrid. Perhaps the biggest selling point of these vehicles is the reduced impact they have on the environment, especially in this era of emissions concerns.

Hybrid cars are also likely to cost less to operate in the long run. Sure, the upfront purchase cost may be slightly more expensive than traditional models, but the a Hybrid costs no more to maintain and the fuel savings you pick up over time are likely to more than recoup the initial outlay.

However, with their complex engines and components, hybrids vehicles can often seem like a whole different kettle of fish. If you are on the hunt for new cars in Brisbane and have your eye on a hybrid, it's important to recognise these vehicles have unique maintenance requirements.

Here are some of our top tips for looking after your hybrid car.

Keep an eye on your tyres

Good tyre maintenance is a given for anything with four wheels, but it's especially important if you really want to see the benefits of owning a hybrid car. Maintaining correct tyre pressure is one of the keys to fuel efficiency.

Even if you drive the latest hybrid car boasting top-of-the-range fuel economy, having your tyres over- or under-inflated can compromise on performance. You should also make sure you have the right tyres fitted for your car.

Hybrids vehicles are known to have lower rolling resistance than traditional models, so make sure you check with your car service centre that you have the best tyres for your hybrid.

Get to know the battery

The battery should always be near the top of your car maintenance checklist, especially if you own a hybrid car. As these vehicles depend heavily on electricity to run, it's even more important to keep the battery in top condition.

Give your battery extra attention in cold weather - although this is unlikely to be a major problem in sunny Brisbane! The batteries in hybrid cars work best when warm, so make sure you get it warmed up sufficiently before setting out on a particularly chilly day. 

Cold weather can also affect the battery's charge. Make sure you keep a decent charge on it at all times, and never let it drain out. The battery is designed to last pretty much most of the car's life - around ten years - so you should get plenty of activity out of it before getting it replaced.

Routine engine checks

As part of a hybrid car's engine is driven by fuel, many of the regular maintenance checks associated with petrol cars also apply to them. This includes the crucial job of checking the engine oil. However, as a hybrid car runs on both electricity and fuel, its engine is likely to wear at a slower rate than a standard petrol car.

Keep a regular maintenance schedule

One of the best ways to prolong the life of your car, regardless of its type, is by implementing a comprehensive care schedule. Buying your hybrid from a reputable dealer such as Motorama can help you keep on top of your car's maintenance.

For example, their capped servicing price plan for all new cars ensures that there won't be any surprises in service costs for the first few years of your car's life.