Do I need a hybrid mechanic?

When you drive a hybrid, you know that your vehicle has some unique benefits and maintenance requirements. So what does this mean when it comes to vehicle maintenance, repair and maintenance? Can any mechanic work on a hybrid? While a standard mechanic probably won't turn you down, you'll get the specialized help you need from hybrid certified mechanic. Find out more about the service your hybrid needs.

Repair and replacement of the hybrid battery

Hybrid batteries are different from standard car batteries because they are powerful enough to supplement fuel consumption and recharge every time you brake. This also means that they require a special level battery service and attention. Here's a look at how hybrid batteries differ from standard batteries:

• Power, size and care: Unlike a standard car battery, a hybrid battery is much larger and more powerful. For mechanics not properly experienced with hybrid systems, this can make maintenance dangerous, difficult to replace, and easy to damage. 
• Cost: Because they are much larger, longer lasting, and more powerful, hybrid batteries tend to be more expensive than standard car batteries. 
• Rreplacement frequency: Luckily, hybrid batteries are usually covered by a warranty of at least 100,000 miles. Newer hybrid vehicles may even have a battery warranty that matches or exceeds 150,000 miles. Depending on your driving style and car maintenance procedures, it should last you several years longer than a standard car battery.
• Iinverter: Your hybrid car has an inverter that switches your car to gas when your battery is low. Good battery maintenance also includes inspecting and adjusting the inverter when it needs maintenance.

To maintain your hybrid battery warranty, you may need to have your hybrid vehicle properly serviced by a certified technician.

Hybrid electrical service

Powerful batteries also mean a gentle power supply for hybrid vehicles. Mechanics need to take extra precautions when working with hybrids, as many are equipped with automatic start and shutdown systems. This system is designed to extend battery life, but it can also overload the transmission and starting system. The hybrid autostart system combined with a powerful battery can create problems for an inexperienced mechanic doing electrical work. 

The hybrid expert also knows how to monitor the electric motor to make sure your car has everything it needs to run properly from the battery.

Standard car services

In addition to special hybrid care, you will need to care for standard car maintenance services to make your hybrid work as it should. 

• Change of oil – Although your battery dependency may slightly reduce the load on the engine, your hybrid vehicle will still need regular oil changes.
• Tire services – Filling, rotating and changing tires for hybrid vehicles is the same as for standard vehicles. 
• Filling and flushing with liquid – Flushing and filling with fluid are essential elements for every vehicle. However, depending on your hybrid, your fluid flush and top-up needs may differ from a standard vehicle. Speak to a professional or refer to your owner's manual for instructions on how to care for fluid levels. 
• Air filters – Your hybrid vehicle will still need a standard air filter change and a cabin filter change as part of a routine maintenance. 

Despite the need for standard services, your vehicle will still benefit from a mechanic who knows the ins and outs of hybrid vehicles.

Hybrid brakes - regenerative braking and care

Hybrid vehicles have regenerative brakes that absorb the energy needed to stop the vehicle and use it to recharge the battery. With regenerative braking, hybrid brakes are designed to last much longer than standard brakes. However, if a problem does occur, your vehicle will require qualified assistance from a technician familiar with hybrid regenerative brakes. 

Maintenance and replacement of Chapel Hill hybrid tires

If your hybrid vehicle is serviceable, have it serviced at your nearest Chapel Hill Tire Service Center. Our technicians are hybrid certified and ready to service hybrid vehicles in Raleigh, Durham, Carrborough and Chapel Hill. Book an appointment here online to get started today!

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