Toyota Hybrid and EV Care: Essentials for Maintenance

Toyota EV maintenance differs from combustion engine maintenance in some ways, as does maintenance for Toyota hybrid vehicles. You can get maintenance for any type of Toyota vehicle from your Toyota dealer, but you’ll need to be aware of what your car needs so you can visit the dealer for the right services at the right intervals.

Think About Oil Changes

Electric cars don’t need motor oil as their powertrains have very few moving parts. However, hybrid vehicles have a combustion engine alongside their battery, so hybrids need oil changes around as frequently as non-hybrid and non-electric vehicles. This could be anywhere from every 5,000 miles to every 10,000 miles. Your owner’s manual will let you know how frequently your Toyota model needs new oil.

Get Battery Care

If you’ve got a hybrid or electric vehicle for the first time, then you’re used to replacing the battery in your car every three to five years. You don’t need to do this with hybrid or electric vehicles. An EV or hybrid vehicle’s battery can last from 100,000 to 150,000 miles as long as you take care of it well.

Visit the dealer to have the battery checked on regularly and avoid leaving your vehicle in extreme temperatures if possible. Aim to park in a garage or indoor parking structure, as this should help protect your battery from extreme temperatures.

Never Skip Brake Maintenance

Like all cars, hybrid and electric vehicles need brake service regularly to ensure every aspect of the braking system is working well. However, you should be aware that some hybrid vehicles have longer-lasting brakes than other cars. This is because some hybrids use regenerative braking, and that helps the brakes last longer. Regardless of what type of car you have, visit the dealer for regular brake maintenance.

Take Care of Your Tires

The tires on your hybrid or electric vehicle are the same as those on any other vehicle, so they need to be well-maintained. Check your tire pressure often and correct it as needed, as driving with inadequately inflated tires can reduce your fuel economy. Be sure to also get tire rotations every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to prevent uneven wear that shortens the tires’ lifespan.

Follow the Recommended Maintenance Schedule

When you get your new Toyota hybrid electric vehicle, read the owner’s manual with care. You’ll find a recommended maintenance schedule in this manual. Stick to it as closely as possible to avoid issues. Your vehicle may need service less often than a gas or diesel vehicle, but the maintenance it does need is vital to its performance and longevity. You can also discuss a maintenance schedule with your dealer.

Come to Ken Ganley Toyota PA in Pleasant Hills, PA, for all your hybrid and EV maintenance. 

Tags: EVs in Pleasant Hills PA, Toyota Hybrids
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