Hybrid and electric cars offer an excellent balance between convenience, cost-effectiveness, and power. Despite the slightly more complicated nature of their engine, hybrid cars are also easy to maintain. Below are some easy-to-implement tips for Honda hybrid maintenance, from a certified Honda dealer, to keep your hybrid or electric vehicle in peak condition.
Get to Know Your Honda Service Schedule
Each Honda hybrid or electric vehicle comes with its own specific service schedule, located in the owner’s manual. This schedule sets out Honda’s suggestions for how often you should book your vehicle for service and inspection by factory-certified technicians.
Sticking to the recommended service schedule helps keep your electric or hybrid vehicle in peak condition and prevents problems that could turn into costly repairs if not caught early.
Practice Good Temperature Control to Extend Your Battery Life
Heat kills batteries! Even a modest increase in temperature can reduce the efficiency and lifespan of your vehicle’s battery. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to help keep your battery cool, including:
- Make sure to top up your vehicle’s fluids, such as inverter coolant and brake fluid, on a regular basis
- Try not to park your vehicle in direct sunlight
- Perform regular maintenance of your battery’s cooling and filtration system
- Wash debris off the body and underside of your vehicle before it gets into your battery’s filtration system
Perform a Regular Oil Check and Change
Oil is still a vital engine lubricant in hybrid and electric cars. Since oil degrades over time, regular oil checks should be a part of your maintenance schedule. Honda suggests that you change your oil every six months or 7,000 miles and that you perform a manual oil check twice a month.
If you notice that your oil is full of particulates, has changed color, or is draining more rapidly than usual, it’s a good idea to book an oil change as soon as possible.
Keep Your Battery Topped Up
Leaving your vehicle’s battery partially or fully discharged can reduce its lifespan. If you have an electric vehicle, you can prevent this with a regular charging schedule. If you have a hybrid, the best way to charge your battery is to go for a brisk drive, letting your internal combustion engine and regenerative braking top up your battery.
If you’d like to experience the power, comfort, and versatility of a Honda hybrid or electric vehicle, then contact Bristol Honda in Bristol, TN, today! Our experienced staff are waiting to help you find your perfect Honda!
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