Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Maintenance in Marion, IL

The second quarter of 2024 saw a rise in hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) sales in the U.S. If you’re among the countless drivers in Marion who’ve invested in these models, proper maintenance should be at the top of your list. Are you ready to take the best care of your ride? Here’s everything to know about hybrid and EV maintenance.

Key Differences: Hybrid vs. EV Maintenance

When it comes to maintenance, hybrids and EVs differ in various ways.

Close up ona white honda vehicle hybrid charging port.

Schedule Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Maintenance

Engine Maintenance

Hybrid models typically come with an electric motor and a gasoline engine, so they require you to regularly visit your favorite mechanic in Marion, Illinois, to maintain both systems. EVs lack a traditional combustion engine, so they don’t need maintenance services such as transmission fluid and oil changes, which allows you to make fewer trips to your preferred auto dealership.

Brake System Maintenance

EVs and hybrids leverage regenerative braking, enabling their traditional brake components to last longer. Hybrids have gasoline engines, prompting them to use their conventional brakes more than their electric counterparts. This means that if you own a hybrid, you’ll need brake maintenance services more than an EV driver.

Battery Maintenance

While hybrid vehicles have smaller batteries than EVs, they only last about eight to 10 years, and replacing them can be expensive. EVs are equipped with large battery packs that often last 10 to 15 years. Many EV manufacturers also provide up to eight-year warranties for the EV batteries, making maintenance more affordable for drivers.

Exhaust System Maintenance

Hybrid vehicles have an exhaust system with catalytic converters and other components, which may fail or get clogged, requiring frequent repairs. EVs don’t have exhaust systems, which eliminates the need for this maintenance service.

Maintenance Costs

Hybrids usually have dual systems and more moving parts that could break down at any time. This makes maintaining these vehicles more expensive than EVs, which have fewer moving components. The amount you’ll pay for hybrid or EV maintenance will depend on the auto repair shop you choose in Marion, Illinois.

Essential Maintenance Tips for Hybrid Vehicles

Do you want to get the most out of your hybrid vehicle? Consider these effective maintenance tips:

  • Battery health: Use the diagnostic tools provided by your manufacturer to check the health of your hybrid model’s battery. If there’s a problem, reach out to a trusted dealership, such as Ike Honda, to schedule a battery health check with one of our certified technicians.
  • Tire maintenance: Proper tire maintenance enhances your safety whenever you take the wheel and lengthens the tires’ lifespan. We recommend rotating your tires every 5,000-8,000 miles to promote even wear and inflating them to the correct pressure.
  • Oil changes: For hybrid models, oil changes are essential after 7,500-10,000 miles. While the ideal oil change interval depends on your model and the manufacturer’s guidelines, never miss an appointment to ensure proper engine function.
  • Coolant checks: Your hybrid model has two cooling systems, which you should check regularly. This prevents the car’s battery from overheating and keeps problems such as poor performance and costly engine replacements at bay.
  • Software updates: Your hybrid’s applications should be updated regularly, as they can impact the performance and reliability of the engine, infotainment system, and other components. Some manufacturers may let you receive important software updates remotely, but others recommend visiting authorized dealers to get them.

Essential Maintenance Tips for EVs

You can use these strategies to properly maintain your EV:

  • Recommended maintenance schedule: EV manufacturers provide a maintenance schedule that you can use to keep your vehicle in peak condition. Sticking to your schedule can help identify potential problems early and fix them.
  • Battery maintenance: To reduce strain on your EV’s battery, ensure its charge is always between 20% and 80%. Emptying the battery can minimize its life span, while charging it to 100% daily can accelerate battery degradation over time.
  • Tire maintenance: The wear rate of EV tires is estimated to be up to 30% faster than that of gas-powered vehicles. Extending the life span of your EV tires calls for routine tire care, prioritizing services such as wheel alignment, tire rotation, and proper tire inflation.
  • Regular servicing: EVs don’t require servicing as often as their hybrid or gas-powered competitors — you can wait up to two years or after hitting 18,000 miles. Even so, it’s advisable that a mechanic checks your car at least every six months just to make sure it’s roadworthy.
  • Charging equipment maintenance: Your charging equipment is the secret to enjoying a smooth charging process. Inspect the charger regularly to identify and address common issues such as loose connections, corrosion, and damaged plugs.

Common Warning Signs: When Your Hybrid or EV Needs Attention

Watch out for these warning signs to know if it’s time to get an auto repair:

  • Decreased fuel efficiency implies your hybrid’s battery might be failing.
  • Dashboard warning lights indicate the car’s electric system or battery is faulty.
  • Erratic charging behavior suggests a failing battery.
  • Unusual grinding and cranking noises when starting the hybrid or EV can signal mechanical issues or a failing starter.

Should you notice any of these signs, visit Ike Honda, the best Honda auto service centers in Marion, Illinois. Our professional experts can inspect your ride, diagnose the issue, and fix it at your convenience.

Environmental and Cost Benefits of Proper Maintenance

Maintaining your hybrid and EV presents various environmental and cost benefits. Ensuring your car is in good condition translates into lower greenhouse gas emissions, which improves air quality and helps in climate change mitigation.

Proper hybrid and EV maintenance minimizes damage and extends the vehicle’s life span. This saves you money that would otherwise go to endless repairs or buying a replacement.

Quality Hybrid and EV Maintenance in Marion, Illinois

If you’re looking for top-tier auto repair in Marion, Illinois, our team at Ike Honda is ready to help. Schedule your service appointment today and let us handle your servicing needs. If you want to save a few bucks, explore our current service specials and choose an offer that suits you best.

Honda Accord plugin hybrid by Magnus Johansson is licensed with CC BY 2.0