How to Maintain a Used Hybrid or Electric Car
Hybrid and electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular across the UK and for good reason. They’re efficient, environmentally friendly, and often cheaper to run than traditional petrol or diesel cars. However, maintaining a used hybrid or EV comes with a few unique considerations.
If you’ve recently bought (or are thinking about buying) a used hybrid or electric car, here’s everything you need to know to keep it running smoothly.
🔋 1. Take Care of the Battery
The battery is the heart of any hybrid or electric vehicle, and also the most expensive component to replace.
To keep it in good condition:
- Avoid letting the battery regularly drop to 0% or sit at 100% for long periods
- Use slow charging where possible to reduce strain
- Try to keep the charge level between 20% and 80% for daily use
Most modern EV batteries are designed to last many years, but good habits can significantly extend their lifespan.
⚡ 2. Keep Charging Equipment in Check
Your charging cable and port are essential for daily use, so it’s important to keep them clean and well-maintained.
- Regularly inspect cables for wear or damage
- Keep the charging port free from dirt and moisture
- Store cables properly to avoid unnecessary strain
If you notice any faults, get them checked promptly to avoid charging issues.
🛞 3. Monitor Tyres More Frequently
Hybrid and electric cars are often heavier due to their batteries, which can lead to increased tyre wear.
- Check tyre pressure regularly
- Inspect tread depth and wear patterns
- Rotate tyres as recommended
Well-maintained tyres improve efficiency, safety, and overall driving performance.
🔧 4. Don’t Skip Routine Servicing
While EVs generally have fewer moving parts than traditional vehicles, they still require regular servicing.
A typical service may include:
- Brake system checks
- Suspension and steering inspections
- Software updates
- Cabin air filter replacement
Hybrids will also have a petrol engine, so they’ll need oil changes and engine maintenance too.
🛑 5. Look After the Braking System
Electric and hybrid cars use regenerative braking, which reduces wear on brake pads but that doesn’t mean they’re maintenance-free.
- Brakes can still corrode if not used regularly
- Have them checked during routine servicing
- Listen out for unusual noises or reduced performance
Keeping your braking system in good condition is essential for safety.
💻 6. Stay on Top of Software Updates
Modern hybrids and EVs rely heavily on software to manage performance, efficiency, and safety features.
- Check for updates from the manufacturer
- Install updates when recommended
- Visit a specialist garage if needed
These updates can improve battery management, range, and overall driving experience.
🌡️ 7. Be Mindful of Temperature Extremes
Battery performance can be affected by very hot or cold weather.
- In winter, expect reduced range
- In summer, try to park in shaded areas to avoid overheating
- Use pre-conditioning features (if available) while plugged in
Protecting your battery from extreme temperatures helps maintain long-term performance.
🔍 8. Choose a Specialist Garage
Not all garages are equipped to work on hybrid and electric vehicles. It’s important to choose a team with the right training and equipment.
At Summit Garage, we have experience working with a wide range of hybrid and electric models, ensuring your vehicle gets the expert care it needs.
Need Help Maintaining Your Hybrid or EV?
Maintaining a used hybrid or electric car doesn’t have to be complicated, it’s just a little different. By taking care of the battery, staying on top of servicing, and keeping an eye on key components, you can enjoy efficient, reliable motoring for years to come.
Whether you need a service, inspection, or expert advice, Summit Garage is here to help. Get in touch today to keep your hybrid or electric vehicle in peak condition.