3 Best Practices For Repairing Hybrid And Electric Vehicles After Automotive School
The rise of hybrid and electric vehicles is one of the most defining features of today’s automotive landscape. While this comes with a suite of benefits for industry practitioners, it also presents a slew of challenges in terms of maintenance procedures.
Adhering to standardized procedures is crucial to ensuring safety and efficiency in vehicle repair. When dealing with electric cars, prioritizing workplace safety becomes even more crucial. As a technician fresh out of automotive school, diving into repairing these advanced vehicles can be exciting and challenging. To ensure successful repairs and the safety of both the technician and the vehicle, here are three best practices to prioritize when working on hybrid and electric vehicles.
1. Prioritize Safety Procedures
Safety should always be the top priority in any automotive repair environment. Still, it becomes even more critical when dealing with hybrid and electric vehicles due to their high-voltage systems. Before diving into any repair work, technicians must adhere to comprehensive safety procedures to minimize the risk of accidents.
One crucial aspect is ensuring you are well-versed in handling high-voltage components. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as insulated gloves and safety goggles. As emphasized in automotive school, pay proper attention to the importance of appropriate high-voltage safety protocols.
In addition, it is essential to isolate the high-voltage system before beginning any repair work. Follow manufacturer guidelines meticulously to disconnect the high-voltage battery and ensure all safety interlocks are engaged. A precautionary measure protects the technician and the vehicle’s electronic systems.
2. Ensure Batteries Maintain Optimum Temperatures
Electric vehicles rely heavily on their battery systems. Overheating these batteries during repair can lead to severe consequences, including reduced battery life and compromised safety. As a budding hybrid and electric vehicle mechanic, you must know the potential risks of mishandling high-voltage batteries.
Avoid exposing batteries to extreme temperatures during the repair process to prevent overheating. This includes refraining from welding or using heat-producing tools near the battery pack. It’s also crucial to allow the battery to cool down before initiating any repair work.
Additionally, following manufacturer specifications for battery cooling systems is imperative. You must ensure that cooling systems function correctly and are not obstructed during repairs. Failure to maintain optimal temperatures during the repair process can result in irreparable damage to the battery and, consequently, the entire vehicle.
3. Automotive School Educates on the Use of Appropriate Tools
Working on hybrid and electric vehicles requires specialized tools designed to handle the unique components of these advanced systems. During and after your hybrid and electrical mechanic training, familiarize yourself with the tools manufacturers recommend for working on electric drivetrains, battery systems, and other high-voltage components.
Investing in high-quality, insulated tools is non-negotiable. These tools are designed to prevent electrical conductivity and reduce the risk of electrical shocks during repair work. Moreover, using manufacturer-approved diagnostic equipment is crucial for accurate troubleshooting and efficient repairs.
Regular training on the latest tools and equipment in the electric vehicle repair domain should be a continuous part of a technician’s education. Staying up-to-date with technological advancements ensures you are well-equipped to handle the challenges of hybrid and electric vehicles in the ever-changing automotive landscape.
Are you ready to enroll in our hybrid and electric vehicle training?
Contact ATC Surrey for more information.
