Essential Maintenance Tips for Hybrid & Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Hybrid and electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular with drivers looking for better fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and the latest automotive technology. But while hybrid and electric vehicles typically require less routine maintenance than traditional gas-powered vehicles, they are not maintenance-free.

Hybrids and EVs have fewer traditional engine components, but they still rely on tires, brakes, cooling systems, fluids, suspension components, software, and sophisticated electrical systems. Maintenance requirements can also vary significantly between makes and models, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule.

If you drive a hybrid or EV in Spanish Fork or throughout Utah County, here are some important maintenance items to keep in mind.

1. Take Care of Your Hybrid or EV Battery

The high-voltage battery is one of the most important components in a hybrid or electric vehicle. These battery systems are designed to last for many years, but proper care can help support their performance and longevity.

Depending on the vehicle, battery maintenance may include:

• Following the manufacturer’s recommended charging guidelines.
• Avoiding extreme temperatures whenever possible.
• Keeping the battery cooling system maintained.
• Having warning lights or battery-related concerns diagnosed promptly.
• Keeping vehicle software updated when updates are recommended.

Important: Charging and battery recommendations vary by manufacturer and model. Always follow the guidelines provided for your specific vehicle.

2. Don't Forget About Tire Maintenance

Tire maintenance is especially important on hybrid and electric vehicles. EVs and many hybrids can be heavier than comparable gas-powered vehicles because of their battery systems. Instant electric motor torque can also contribute to tire wear.

Regularly:

• Check and maintain proper tire pressure.
• Rotate your tires according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Have your alignment checked if you notice uneven tire wear or the vehicle pulling to one side.
• Inspect your tires for uneven wear, damage, or low tread.
• Use the correct tire size and type recommended for your vehicle.

Proper EV tire maintenance can help improve handling, tire life, and overall efficiency.

3. Keep the Brake System in Good Condition

Hybrid and electric vehicles use regenerative braking to help recover energy and send it back to the battery. Because regenerative braking can reduce the amount of work performed by the traditional friction brakes, brake pads may last longer than they do on some conventional vehicles.

That doesn't mean the brake system should be overlooked.

During regular maintenance, your technician should inspect:

• Brake pads
• Brake rotors
• Brake fluid
• Calipers and other brake components

Brake components can still wear, corrode, or develop problems even when they aren't used as frequently. Regular hybrid and EV brake inspections help ensure your vehicle can stop safely when you need it to.

4. Maintain the Cooling System

Many hybrid and electric vehicles use specialized cooling systems to regulate the temperature of important components such as the battery, electric motor, inverter, and other electronics.

Depending on the vehicle, the cooling system may require:

• Coolant level inspections
• Leak inspections
• Coolant replacement or service
• Inspection of hoses and related components

Overheating can cause expensive damage to high-voltage components, so don't ignore coolant leaks, overheating warnings, or dashboard warning messages.

5. Replace the Cabin Air Filter

The cabin air filter is easy to overlook, but it plays an important role in maintaining the air quality inside your vehicle and helping the HVAC system operate efficiently.

A clogged or dirty cabin air filter can restrict airflow and may cause your heating and air conditioning system to work harder.

Check your owner's manual for the recommended replacement interval.

6. Keep Up With Software Updates and Diagnostics

Today's hybrid and electric vehicles rely heavily on computer systems and software. These systems can control everything from battery management and charging to regenerative braking, safety systems, and vehicle performance.

Software updates may address known issues, improve system operation, or add enhancements.

If you notice warning lights, unusual performance, charging problems, or other electrical concerns, have the vehicle properly diagnosed by a technician with the appropriate hybrid and EV diagnostic equipment and training.

7. Inspect Your EV Charging Equipment

For electric vehicle owners, charging equipment is an important part of vehicle ownership.

Periodically inspect your home charging equipment, cables, connectors, and charging port for signs of damage or excessive wear.

Keep the charging connection clean and dry, and don't use damaged charging equipment.

If your EV begins experiencing intermittent charging problems, slow charging, or charging failures, the problem may involve the vehicle, charging equipment, electrical supply, or another component. Proper diagnosis can help determine the cause.

8. Don't Forget About Fluids

One common misconception about EVs is that they don't use fluids. While a fully electric vehicle doesn't have engine oil like a traditional gas-powered vehicle, it can still have several fluids that require inspection or replacement.

Depending on the make and model, these may include:

• Coolant
• Brake fluid
• Gear or transmission fluid
• Other manufacturer-specific fluids

Hybrid vehicles may have additional maintenance requirements because they combine an internal combustion engine with an electric drive system.

Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for your specific vehicle.

9. Have the Rest of the Vehicle Inspected

Having an electric motor doesn't mean the rest of the vehicle is maintenance-free.

Your hybrid or EV still has suspension components, steering components, wheel bearings, tires, brakes, and other systems that can wear over time.

Regular inspections can help identify:

• Uneven tire wear
• Suspension problems
• Alignment issues
• Worn wheel bearings
• Brake problems
• Damaged hoses or components
• Other developing mechanical issues

Catching a small problem early may help prevent a more expensive repair later.

How Often Should a Hybrid or EV Be Serviced?

There isn't one maintenance schedule that applies to every hybrid or electric vehicle. Service intervals vary by manufacturer, model, driving conditions, and vehicle age.

Your owner's manual is the best place to start. Your technician can also help you understand which maintenance services are appropriate for your particular vehicle.

Even if your hybrid or EV seems to be running perfectly, routine inspections can help identify problems before they become major repairs.

Hybrid & EV Maintenance in Spanish Fork, Utah

Hybrid and electric vehicles may have fewer traditional maintenance needs, but regular EV maintenance and hybrid vehicle service are still important for safety, reliability, and long-term performance.

From tire and brake inspections to cooling systems, fluids, suspension, and diagnostic services, staying ahead of routine maintenance can help you get the most from your vehicle.

If you drive a hybrid or electric vehicle in Spanish Fork, Springville, Payson, or throughout Utah County, don't wait for a warning light to tell you something is wrong. Following your manufacturer's maintenance recommendations and having your vehicle inspected regularly can help keep you safely and confidently on the road.

Drive a hybrid or EV? Proper maintenance today can help protect your investment for the miles ahead.

** Here at Dickerson we may not be able to help with all EV or Hybrids.