How to Maintain a Hybrid Car, So the Battery and Engine Stay Optimal!

Now, more and more Indonesians are starting to use hybrid cars for family vehicles and personal mobility. The combination of electric power and gasoline engines makes hybrid cars a solution for those who want to save fuel while being environmentally friendly.

If you are a user of hybrid cars or are interested in buying one, you need to pay attention to its maintenance. Because it uses a dual system of electric motors and internal combustion, the maintenance of hybrid cars is different from conventional cars or pure EVs.

A hybrid car has additional components such as a hybrid battery, inverter, and a special cooling system, all of which require extra attention. Here are some tips for maintaining your hybrid car to ensure its longevity, efficiency, and to extend the life of its battery and electrical components.

1. Regularly Check Oil and Engine

The hybrid engine still uses regular engine oil, but the replacement interval can vary depending on conditions. The ideal interval for oil replacement is every 10,000–15,000 km or according to the manufacturer's recommendation. Make sure to only use oil labeled “Hybrid Engine Approved” and avoid counterfeit oils.

Using the wrong oil can adversely affect the performance of the electric motor connected to the engine. Therefore, always use the appropriate products and types of oil for your hybrid car. In addition to oil, also check the spark plugs and oil filter to keep the combustion process optimal.

2. Pay Attention to the Battery Cooling System

Weather and temperature are the biggest challenges for the battery components of a hybrid car. The cooling system of a hybrid car uses a special coolant that circulates through channels around the battery module.

Make sure the coolant in your hybrid car is replaced every 40,000 km. Additionally, clean the air vents from dust. If the air circulation is blocked, the temperature can rise and shorten the lifespan of your hybrid car's battery.

3. Avoid Flooding and Do Not Wash the Car Carelessly

A hybrid car has a complex electrical system that includes high-voltage batteries, inverters, and various sensitive connectors. These components are equipped with protective systems, but they still risk damage if exposed to large amounts of water. Therefore, avoid driving through puddles or flooded areas as much as possible.

Additionally, when washing the car, it is recommended not to spray high-pressure water directly onto the underside of the body, the engine compartment, or the area around the battery. Use a gentle washing method and ensure all electrical components are well protected. If in doubt, it is best to wash it at an official workshop.

4. Regularly Check the Regenerative Brake System

The braking system in a hybrid car not only slows down the vehicle but also generates energy to be stored again. Therefore, components such as brake pads in a hybrid car usually last longer. However, regular checks should still be performed, especially on wheel sensors and electronic control systems.

5. Avoid Overcharging The Battery

Overcharging can accelerate battery cell degradation and reduce energy storage capacity. If this bad habit is allowed to continue, the performance of the electric motor in the hybrid car may decline.

To prevent this, make it a habit to drive regularly so that the charging and usage system of the battery remains balanced. Also, avoid leaving the hybrid car in a fully charged state for long periods, especially in high-temperature places.

6. Service at an Official Hybrid

A hybrid car is not the type of vehicle that can be serviced anywhere. Take your hybrid car for maintenance at an official workshop. Official workshops have special scanning tools that can read the condition of the battery, inverter, and even the ECU software. Certified technicians also know how to handle high-voltage systems safely.

Driving Habits That Make Hybrid Cars Last Longer

Sometimes the lifespan of a vehicle is not only determined by its components but also by the driving style of its user. That is why the durability of each person's hybrid car can vary. Here are some driving habits that you can apply to make your hybrid

Tips Sahabat