Since they were first introduced in the late 1990s, the popularity of hybrid cars has skyrocketed. Hybrid vehicles typically produce fewer tailpipe emissions than their conventional counterparts and are more fuel-efficient. Unlike EVs, they do not have range limitations.
Like conventional cars and EVs, hybrid cars need regular care and maintenance. Periodic maintenance addresses current problems before they snowball into major crises and prevents future issues.
Hybrid repair presents unique challenges. A mechanic who only repairs and maintains conventional cars and EVs may lack the skills and experience to perform hybrid maintenance. For this reason, you should look for a mechanic with experience working on hybrids.
Take your car to a hybrid car repair shop in Santa Rosa that can handle these repairs.
Hybrid Car Battery Repair
Hybrid cars utilize a 12-volt lead-acid battery that powers the electric motor, which propels the vehicle. This reduces pressure on the gasoline engine, helping improve fuel efficiency. However, hybrid car batteries can develop problems over time.
Some signs that your hybrid car’s battery is going bad include decreased gas mileage, your car running out of charge sooner than usual, and your combustion engine coming on more frequently.
Because hybrid car batteries are larger and more complex than standard batteries, hybrid car battery repair is a difficult undertaking. A mechanic with no or little experience working on hybrid car batteries can make a repair mistake that can damage your battery, and you may have to replace it sooner than you expected. This can be a big financial setback, given that hybrid car batteries are more expensive than traditional batteries.
Manufacturers offer an eight-year/100k-mile warranty on their batteries. To keep your warranty intact, always hire a certified technician for repairs.
Electrical System
The electrical system of a hybrid car uses auto-start and shut-off features to help conserve fuel and reduce pressure on the battery, increasing its useful life. A hybrid car’s electrical system should be calibrated at regular intervals, or it could cause severe damage to the car’s transmission or starter. Leave the task to a mechanic who knows the ins and outs of repairing hybrid vehicles.
Brake System
Most hybrid cars have regenerative brakes that recover some of the kinetic energy that would otherwise turn into heat and convert it into electricity. This energy is stored in the battery for future use. Regenerative brakes are usually longer lasting than conventional brakes. They, however, are also more expensive to fix and replace. To carry out brake repair, you will want a certified expert who knows how regenerative brakes work with other hybrid car parts.
GreenTech Automotive is a leading car repair shop in Santa Rosa. Whether you have a traditional car, an EV, or a hybrid, we have you covered. To make an appointment, call (707) 545-7076.