Hybrid and electric vehicles (EV) have become increasingly popular due to their fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness, but many misconceptions remain regarding maintenance needs.
Hybrid and electric vehicle maintenance requires much of the same care as traditional vehicles, so this article will explore this realm to dispel myths and provide owners with a clear understanding of their vehicle’s needs.
Cooling System
Electric vehicle power electronics systems are extremely sensitive to thermal effects and must remain at an ideal temperature in order to function effectively. An improper temperature may result in control glitches and malfunctions. Therefore, an optimal cooling system must circulate coolant through the system in order to keep its optimal temperature.
Electric vehicles (EVs) use rechargeable batteries that produce heat when charging, so a cooling system must be in place to regulate its temperature and protect its electronics systems. Some EVs utilize air cooling while others rely on liquid cooling as the ultimate cooling method for their batteries and electronic components.
Air and liquid cooling systems need routine maintenance in order to avoid leaks and corrosion, according to your hybrid or EV owner’s manual. Regularly changing coolant, making sure there are no leaks, and making sure all passageways are clear will help ensure efficient vehicle operation.
Battery
A hybrid battery is a complex component that needs special care. To extend its lifespan and prevent short circuiting, regular cleaning should be undertaken to avoid dirt or grime from collecting on metal parts and short-circuiting the circuits. Furthermore, charging should occur regularly to maintain full capacity and efficiency as well as decreasing usage of in-car electronics and lights; all of this helps preserve hybrid batteries’ lifespans.
Hybrid Electric Vehicles, or HEVs, combine both gas engine and an electric motor to power their vehicle. Part of their energy comes from regenerative braking, which captures and reuses energy that would have otherwise been lost through traditional brake pads and rotors.
EVs, on the other hand, rely solely on rechargeable batteries that require frequent charging sessions as well as replacement over time. When nearing their lifespan expiration, hybrid or electric car batteries may be repaired instead of completely replacing them at an estimated cost savings.
Safety Systems
Hybrids and EVs feature many of the same safety features found in traditional gasoline vehicles, such as airbags and anti-lock braking systems. Regenerative braking systems help reduce wear on components while prolonging their lives, which adds another level of protection.
High voltage injuries remain rare among technicians working on hybrid and electric vehicles, relative to other sources of electrical hazards such as buildings or overhead power lines.
Repair technicians of hybrid or electric vehicles should follow all standard safety protocol when performing repairs, including deenergizing the battery and isolating it from the vehicle before starting work. In addition, it’s critical that high-voltage insulated gloves rated to 1000 Volt minimum Class 0 are worn when performing maintenance on these cars and that a multimeter with 1000V Category III output and noncontact infrared thermometer are used to verify isolation and ensure all high voltage circuits have been shut off before beginning maintenance operations.
Software Updates
Like your phone or computer, many hybrid and electric vehicles can receive over-the-air (OTA) software updates, enabling manufacturers to alter performance without needing to bring them into a service shop for maintenance.
This can range from optimizing driving experience and features, enabling new ones, or optimizing energy consumption and efficiency. Over-the-air updates may even solve minor bugs that would otherwise require visiting a dealership for repairs.
Some OTA updates can unlock more driving range, similar to remapping an engine. Tesla famously issued an OTA update which allowed owners to drive further on one charge after hurricane evacuations – bypassing typical battery restrictions designed to protect it and extend lifespan.
Hybrid, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and full electric vehicles (FEVs) have become more and more popular as more people move away from traditional gasoline cars, yet it’s important to remember they still require regular maintenance in order to perform at their best.
