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Jul 17, 2008 1:31 pm US/Eastern
Angie's List: Servicing Hybrids
PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ―
We've all heard how hybrids are good for the environment and get better gas mileage, but what about when your hybrid needs service or repair?
In today's Angie's List report, Jim Donovan explains why you should think twice before giving just any mechanic the green light to service your hybrid.
Just like traditional automobiles, hybrids require regular oil changes, air filter replacements, transmission fluid, coolant, and of course, maintenance on brakes and tires. That's where many of the similarities stop.
For more involved repairs, you'll want to make sure your vehicle is in the capable hands of a hybrid-certified technician
"The key difference between a hybrid and a traditional car is the electrical system. If you're going to be working on the electrical system, you need to leave that to a hybrid expert," said Angie's List founder, Angie Hicks.
That means looking for a mechanic with hybrid certification.
"Obviously the dealership where you bought the car from you're going to certified mechanics, but there has been a trend recently where a lot of independent mechanics are picking up that certification as well," said Hicks.
Servicing hybrids can be expensive too, especially when it comes to changing the batteries.
"The battery on a hybrid can be anywhere from three to five-thousand dollars but they usually last about eight years. So if you're leasing it's probably not going to be an issue for you. But if you are buying the car and you're going to keep it for a long time, you need to factor that in to your overall cost," said Hicks.
Angie's tips for hybrid auto repair:
· Find a technician who specializes in hybrid repair before you need one: Doing your homework and developing a long-term relationship with a hybrid repair specialist will help you avoid being rushed into a last-minute decision. You'll also be first in line for emergency service and cost savings.
· Check licensing & certification: Most mechanics are ase (automotive service excellence) Certified, whereas not all, but the majority of independent mechanics are not certified in hybrid repair. Hybrid dealership technicians, on the other hand, are required to complete the monthly and yearly certification courses and are up-to-speed on the latest innovations.
· Never work on the electrical system yourself: Unless you are a hybrid-certified mechanic, leave the electrical and battery repairs to the professionals who are trained to work with those deadly, high-voltage components.
· Don't be late with tire rotations: The electric engine creates more torque than a gasoline engine and can wear out tires faster.
· Charge that battery: Regularly charge your 12-volt battery if your hybrid has plug-in capability. Hybrids that don't plug in use regenerative braking energy to self charge.
· Stay up on routine maintenance: As with traditional fuel vehicles, staying current on your regular maintenance will extend the life and preserve the resale value of your hybrid.
· Warranty work: Most hybrid warranties cover eight years or 100,000 miles. Determine if your warranty requires you to use a specific repair center. If you use another source, keep all receipts in case your warranty coverage is questioned.
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