If you are considering a hybrid vehicle, you are probably thinking about the cost of ownership. Will a hybrid car cost me more to own?
The maintenance for this type of vehicle is really about the same as for any vehicle. Whether it’s a car, truck, or SUV, the gasoline engine uses the usual maintenance procedures. You will still need to change the oil, fluids and filters in accordance with the production schedule.
Continuous maintenance always reduces the total cost of ownership. It is better to spend a little now than to have a catastrophic failure in the future, because you did not change the oil for twenty thousand miles.
Brake service as needed is part of your normal service. It all applies to your hybrid vehicles.
When buying a hybrid car, especially if you are considering a used model, the most important factor to consider is the battery. You want to make sure from a reliable source that the battery is in good condition.
In the early hybrid models, up to eight thousand dollars could be spent on batter replacement. In the latest models, the cost is still about two thousand dollars.
Ask a certified store to check the batteries if you plan to purchase an existing model. The only real preventative service you can do is move normally. By this I mean that this is not a hot rod, stay away from the gas pedal, you do not need to drag the race car. And just be sure that everything else is serviced regularly.
Check with your local dealer to find out what warranty is left on the hybrid drive system of the car you’re considering. Make sure that warranty goes with the car. Meaning that no matter who the owner is, the warranty follows the car, not the owner.
If you are considering a new car, be sure to read your warranty in small print. Make sure that you carry out all scheduled maintenance so as not to void the warranty due to lack of maintenance. Hybrids are awesome cars, and today they have awesome technology, and you will help preserve the environment for future generations.
Like any car, if you are investing, you will want to take care of them. Technology in cars today is the best in history, so caution with your car will provide you with years of quality driving. Drive friendly and safe!
-Jack Wilson