Hybrid & Electric Vehicle Repairs: A Complete Guide
It's no secret that hybrid and electric vehicles have been taking the world by storm. As we transition into the digital age, even our methods of transport are becoming more efficient and eco-conscious. Electric vehicles have become prevalent in modern day society, and for good reason. Their contribution to minimising personal and national carbon footprints has been astronomical. Countries across the world are offering schemes and incentives to encourage individuals to make the switch to electric.
But, with any vehicle comes the possibility of damage, wear & tear and possible vehicle repairs. Our blog takes a closer look at hybrid and electric vehicles, alongside some of their most common problems, and what you can do to avoid them. To learn more about electric vehicle repairs, carry on reading.
Understanding Hybrid & Electric Vehicles
With their low running costs and increasingly long ranges, more and more people are making the switch to electric vehicles. But why? Read on to understand more about the future of transport.
Electric & Hybrid Vehicles: What’s the Difference?
Electric cars, or EV's (Electric Vehicles) are vehicles that run solely on electricity. They are charged through a wire that connects to a power socket in your home, however we may be seeing examples of wireless charging in the future. Some EVs can be charged through solar power, but many are powered through electricity from the national grid. The electricity is stored in the car's batteries, which is then used to power the car.
Hybrid vehicles, on the other hand, are powered by a combination of both electricity and petrol fuel. These models typically have a petrol engine and an electric motor, which work in combination to power the vehicle. In some hybrid vehicles, the petrol engine's sole purpose is to recharge the car's electric batteries. Hybrid vehicles are better for the environment than petrol and diesel cars, but they do still release some emissions, and require petrol.
There are many benefits to choosing electric and hybrid vehicles, including:
● Improved fuel efficiency
● Reduced fuel costs and consumption
● Eco-friendly and better for the environment
● Quieter operation
Common Problems With Hybrid & Electric Vehicles
While electric vehicles are on the rise, it's still important to take care of them and ensure you are regularly servicing your vehicle. You may not recognise that there is an issue with your electric vehicle until it's too late, so regular servicing is essential for the health of your EV. We've outlined some of the most common problems that can occur in electric or hybrid vehicles, so that you are aware of some potential issues that may occur.
Battery Degradation
When it comes to electric and hybrid models, battery degradation is one of the most common problems that individuals will encounter. Taking care of your vehicle's battery is essential to maintaining its fuel economy and overall health. A worn down battery can be detrimental to your car's mileage and overall performance.
Depending on your make and model, using the right techniques to charge your vehicle, and not wearing down the battery is essential. Additionally, ensuring you check the battery health and take your vehicle in for regular servicing will help it to stay healthy and functional for longer.
Brake System Malfunctions
Brake system malfunctions are another potential problem in EVs and hybrid cars. It can be the result of various factors, such as other system failures, a lack of proper maintenance or a design flaw within the vehicle itself. If these problems aren't addressed, your vehicle could lose all braking power over time. If you feel like your brakes are sticky, particularly stiff or loose, then there may be a problem with your vehicle.
To prevent issues occurring with your brakes, regular servicing is crucial for spotting potential issues early. By addressing potential problems sooner rather than later, you can reduce the likelihood of brake system malfunctions.
Reduced Fuel Efficiency Over Time
Hybrid and electric cars are great for those who want to drive their vehicle a lot without causing as much harm to the environment, but there is a risk of reduced fuel efficiency over time. These problems are related to the vehicle's battery and its performance, which can be impacted by excessive use and drainage. To avoid this, things like regular inspections, tire pressure checks, brake fluid checks and spark plug checks are crucial. In order to keep your car battery running smoothly, and operating at maximum capacity, regular servicing is crucial too.
Catalytic Converter Issues
Hybrid cars can be susceptible to problems with their catalytic converters. These components of cars are essential for controlling emissions and maintaining proper fuel efficiency. A malfunctioning catalytic converter can cause increased emissions, and completely mitigate the environmentally friendly nature of hybrid vehicles. This adds to the maintenance and cost of owning a hybrid vehicle, and is definitely something you want to avoid.
Warning Signs To Look Out For
In some cases, there aren't visible signs that something is wrong with your vehicle, which is why regular vehicle servicing is so important. However, there can be warning signs that a problem has arisen. Some key things to look out for that indicate a problem with your vehicle include:
● Dashboard Warning Lights - This is always a sign that something isn't right with your vehicle. Whether you're driving a petrol, diesel, hybrid or electric vehicle, dashboard warning lights are a clear sign. They should be clear about where the issue is, and indicate this to you clearly. If you spot a dashboard warning light, be sure to take your vehicle into the garage as soon as possible.
● Performance Changes - performance changes are a more subtle issue that you might spot, but they are important nonetheless. You may notice that your vehicle's range, charging time and energy usage is changing, it could be a sign that there is a problem with your vehicle.
● Unusual Noises - Any kind of squealing, squeaking, scratching, or other unusual noises coming from your vehicle is a clear sign that there's an issue with your vehicle. It could be something like worn brake pads, or other internal issues. Whining and humming sounds that are unusual could also indicate a problem with the vehicle's engine.
● Charging Problems - If your vehicle is not charging properly, failing to charge, or charging inconsistently, you should have the vehicle serviced, or there may be a problem with your charging port.
● Overheating & Physical Problems - If you start to notice physical problems with your vehicle, such as overheating or strange physical symptoms, there could be internal issues occurring. Fluid leaks and blockages within your car could be causing problems to occur.
Acorn Tyre Services: Premium Garage Services & Qualified Vehicle Mechanics
Looking after your vehicle is essential. Not just to prolong its lifespan, but to ensure that you and other road users are safe. Driving a car with any kind of problems can be a risk to other road users and to yourself. To protect yourself, keep a lookout for key signs that something is wrong, and ensure your car is in tip top shape.
Having your car regularly serviced can help you avoid nasty problems or worsening any current issues. Here at Acorn Tyres, we offer an excellent range of garage services and handy repair services, should you need any vehicle repair. To learn more about our services, or how we can help you, feel free to get in touch with us today.
