Hybrids Require Attention To Details

As contractors add hybrids to their companies’ fleets, they are finding that servicing these high-voltage power vehicles requires special attention. From jacking and lifting vehicles to replacing battery packs and fluids, manufacturers of hybrids encourage owners to strictly adhere to the guidelines provided in the owner’s manual and to have their vehicles serviced only by technicians who are properly trained and certified.  

Hybrids are different. Because a hybrid car uses both a gasoline engine and an electric motor powered by high-voltage batteries, there are unusual features under the hood. As an example, there are few if any belts to check and sometimes, no power steering pump. In addition, hybrid transmission fluid, which needs to be checked, is very different than that used in conventional transmissions.

To further understand the different service requirements of hybrids, carefully read the manufacturer’s repair manual. Compared to most gasoline-powered vehicles, some additional checks and inspections must be performed on hybrids. And, it’s even more important to pay attention to details, such as the proper weight engine oil, hybrid specific coolant, transaxle fluid and correct tire pressure. Even the refrigerant oil used in the air-conditioning systems must be a special non-conducting type due to high voltage systems in most hybrids.

A hybrid vehicle’s cooling system also requires special attention. Because electronic modules for the electric motors run hot, hybrid vehicles have dedicated cooling systems for these components. There’s also a dedicated air-circulating system to cool the batteries. Filters for these systems need to be checked regularly and replaced when needed for the system to operate properly. Cars.com recommends that hoses, clamps and coolant level of the electronics cooling system be checked periodically and the system serviced according to the manufacturer’s specified intervals.  

But that’s not all. Some hybrid vehicles have two air conditioning systems—one to cool the passenger compartment and another to cool the high voltage components. On these vehicles, the system that cools the battery and electronic components also has a filter than needs to be checked and serviced on a regular basis. These unique features are among the reasons that hybrid owners need to rely on specially-trained technicians to insure proper care of their vehicles.

On the other hand, routine maintenance for hybrids is not that different from regular vehicles. Scheduled maintenance includes the usual oil and filter changes, checks of transmission fluid and engine coolant levels and condition, as well as service at the recommended intervals. In addition, regularly inspecting brakes, rotating tires and checking tire inflation, wipers, filters and fluids are necessary to keep your hybrid vehicle performing at peak efficiency.  

Arrange Service with Qualified Shops

Hybrids present special challenges to service technicians. Technicians must be careful when jacking and lifting hybrid vehicles to prevent damaging the high-voltage cabling underneath the vehicle. Similarly, technicians need to know that during routine service such as oil changes or any type of service, the ignition system should be disabled to prevent the engine from starting unexpectedly, causing expensive damage or injury.  

Hybrids’ powerful and large battery packs, which can sometimes be as much as 200 pounds, also require special attention. Compared to a regular car battery that has 12 volts available, a hybrid’s battery can have over 300 volts available, which can be dangerous if not handled properly. The high voltage wiring is encased in bright orange casing.

Technicians who are trained to work on hybrids are knowledgeable about the unique high-voltage power systems and how these affect the vehicle. They also are familiar with the proper equipment, tools and procedures when working on these specialty vehicles, as well as the safety precautions.

Hybrids continue to attract the interest of businesses because of their environmental and fuel efficiencies. When it comes to servicing your hybrid, it is best to have the work done by specially-trained technicians to keep your vehicle operating at peak efficiency.    

Laura Walter is corporate marketing manager for Enterprise Fleet Management, a division of Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Walter can be reached at 877.233.5338 or www.enterprise.com/fleets.  

Tags: 2008 February Issue, costs, environmental, management,

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