Introduction:

With gas prices on the rise, more and more people are looking into buying hybrid cars. Also, because hybrid vehicles are much more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly with other top-notched features, it’s no wonder that their popularity has increased manifolds in recent years.

But as with any new technology, there are bound to be some problems and issues. And just like standard vehicles, hybrids require a regular visit to a professional auto repair shop to maintain their optimal performance.

In addition to general maintenance, here are some of the most common problems that hybrid car owners face.

Most Common Hybrid Car Problems:

Weak Batteries:

The battery is a significant common component in both standard and hybrid cars. But unfortunately, hybrid batteries tend to be weaker and have shorter lifespans than their standard counterparts. The problem is that the battery powers not just the lights and accessories but also the electric motor. This puts a lot of strain on the battery, leading to it dying prematurely.

Replacing a hybrid battery is much more expensive than replacing a standard car battery. So it’s essential to take good care of your hybrid battery and regularly check it by a professional auto repair near me.

Catalytic Converter Issues:

Replacing a catalytic converter isn’t a minor service and can be pretty expensive irrespective of the type of car you own. But this is especially true for hybrids, as they tend to have more complex and sensitive catalytic converters than traditional cars.

Faulty Oxygen Sensor:

Just like the oxygen sensor in a standard car, the oxygen sensor in a hybrid monitors the level of unburned oxygen released through the exhaust. High levels of oxygen in the exhaust can indicate that the fuel isn’t being appropriately burned, which can lead to decreased fuel efficiency with more frequent trips to the gas station.

Although hybrids are known to have excellent fuel efficiency, a faulty oxygen sensor can quickly offset any fuel savings, and replacing the sensor is way more expensive than you’d think.

Evaporative Emission System Failure:

Hybrid drivers may also experience problems with their evaporative emission system. This system is responsible for controlling fuel vapor, and when it fails, it often requires a complete replacement.

Low Gas Mileage on Highways:

Hybrid cars capture energy from braking and coasting and use it to recharge the battery. This process is known as regenerative braking, one of the main ways hybrids conserve fuel.

However, this process is less effective on highways where there isn’t much opportunity to brake or coast. As a result, many hybrid owners find that their fuel economy drops significantly when driving on the highway.

This isn’t necessarily a problem with the car, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re planning to do a lot of highway driving in your hybrid.

How to Minimize Common Hybrid Car Problems?

Although hybrid vehicle issues can very well be expensive to fix, a regular and disciplined maintenance schedule can help you avoid or, at the least, minimize many of these problems.

Like any other standard vehicle, hybrids need regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine maintenance to keep them running smoothly. Therefore, schedule specific maintenance check-ups for your hybrid and replace parts as needed. Also, ensure that you consult a qualified hybrid auto mechanic with the experience and expertise to maintain your car correctly. This will help extend your hybrid’s life and keep it running smoothly for years to come.

Same Day Auto Repair shop in Sand Springs is a qualified, experienced hybrid auto repair shop. We provide complete hybrid maintenance and repairs, including car oil changes, tune-ups, brakes, and transmissions.

If you’re experiencing any problems with your hybrid car, or if it’s due for routine maintenance, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Our team of qualified mechanics will be happy to help keep your hybrid running smoothly.