3 Preventative Maintenance Tips for a Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Mechanic
The demand for skilled hybrid and electric vehicle mechanics is increasing as the automotive industry continues its steady but assured shift toward electrification. These technicians ensure electric vehicles (EVs) deliver long-lasting and optimal performance.
While these vehicles boast advanced technology, they still require regular maintenance to prevent them from working in less-than-desired conditions. Here are three crucial preventative maintenance tips for hybrid and electric vehicle mechanics to remember.
1. Inspect and Service Cooling Systems per Your Hybrid and Electrical Mechanic Training
Regular overheating can harm EV batteries and other critical components like the electric motor and power electronics. This is why regular inspections and services of these vehicles’ cooling systems must be conducted to prevent heat-related failures. If you have experienced hybrid and electrical mechanic training, you will be fully aware of these heat-related failures and why they should be avoided at all costs.
You must check the coolant level and condition to maintain your cooling system. Also, inspect the radiator and hoses for leaks or blockages and ensure that other components like the cooling fans, pumps, and thermostats are in good working condition.
You may need to flush old coolant, replace worn components, or modify ducting for optimal airflow. Whichever route you take, always be thorough and careful to cover key areas.
2. Conduct Regular Brake System Inspections and Software Updates
Many hybrid vehicles increasingly use advanced driver assistance technology for everyday tasks like braking, lane centering, and departure. Yet, it is crucial to stay ahead of the curve and check these systems are optimal.
This includes regularly inspecting and servicing the brake system. Check vital braking components like brake pads, rotors, brake fluid levels, and condition to ensure they work correctly. If you discover signs of brake wear early, you can avoid costly repairs down the line and address potential safety risks before they advance.
Another important tip is to be updated with EV software updates constantly. These electric vehicles rely heavily on complex software systems to manage their regenerative braking and battery management, driver interfaces, and advanced driver assistance features. The updates help improve performance, unlock new capabilities, and address existing glitches.
3. Perform Regular Battery Inspections
The battery is the heart of any hybrid or electric vehicle. These high-tech EV batteries power the car’s electric motor and several other components while storing energy for propulsion. Regular inspections must be performed to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of these advanced batteries.
Several necessary measures are needed to keep the battery in optimal working condition. As a hybrid and electric vehicle mechanic, carefully examine the battery pack and check for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage to the casing and terminals.
In addition, battery capacity tests and balancing procedures are performed to maintain uniform cell voltage and extend battery life. You can identify potential issues early by conducting thorough battery inspections and taking relevant corrective measures. This will ultimately prevent battery failures that can prove costly and cause incessant downtime for vehicle owners.
Are you considering attending automotive training?
Contact ATC for more information.
