Hybrid cars have some similarities to regular cars. For example, hybrid cars still need engine oil and a car battery to function properly. Don’t forget that hybrid cars have an internal combustion engine just like traditional cars. The only difference is that less gasoline is consumed in a hybrid vehicle.
However, it is not possible to completely rely on electricity to power your driving because it would run out quickly if you tried to do that. For this reason, you need to properly maintain your hybrid car in a similar way that you would with any other car.
This means getting regular oil changes and replacing your car battery when it goes bad. In the case of hybrid vehicles, there are two batteries to worry about.
Hybrid Battery Replacement Cost
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There is some good news and bad news about hybrid batteries. The good news is that a new hybrid battery should last you for at least 8 years or 100,000 miles. The bad news is that the cost will be between $1,000 and $8,000. The exact cost is determined by the make and model of your hybrid vehicle.
You might be wondering why a hybrid battery costs thousands of dollars while a traditional car battery only costs a few hundred dollars. Well, a hybrid car battery needs to supply more power than a regular battery because it is supplementing some of the power that would have otherwise come from the engine.
But fortunately, we’re seeing more competition when it comes to replacement hybrid batteries which is driving prices down. In some cases, it’s even possible to replace your own hybrid battery which can save you hundreds (or even thousands).
You are also able to recharge the hybrid battery too, which means you don’t have to run out and purchase a new battery whenever it runs out of power.
On top of that, hybrid vehicles use a 2nd smaller 12v auxiliary battery that is used to run the electronics in your car. While much cheaper than the main battery (approx. $60 to $150), it will require replacement every 3-5 years much like a normal gasoline or diesel powered vehicle would.
Related: Getting a “Check Hybrid System” Message? (You May Need a New Battery)
Hybrid Oil Change Cost
The frequency of oil changes for a hybrid vehicle will be about the same as they would be in a traditional car. Most hybrid car manufacturers will tell you to get an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. This may be necessary if you are using a conventional oil in your hybrid car’s engine.
However, if you switch to synthetic oil for your engine, then you can get an oil change every 5,000 to 7,000 miles instead. Remember that your hybrid vehicle will switch off the engine power whenever you’re driving at lower speeds. This means that the engine’s components won’t need to be lubricated as frequently, which allows the oil to last longer.
If you end up choosing synthetic oil, it will cost typically cost you between $40 and $80 per oil change. If you prefer to stick with the conventional oil, it will cost you between $30 and $50.
Also, listen to your manufacturer’s recommendation for the oil weight. Do not automatically use 10W30 or 10W40 like you see in regular cars. Chances are that your manufacturer will recommend 0W20. It is important the oil weight is low in a hybrid vehicle or else it won’t be able to lubricate the engine components properly.
See Also: Synthetic vs Synthetic Blend Motor Oil
Other Hybrid Maintenance Costs
The components of the vehicle which pertain specifically to the hybrid will be fine on their own. The only components that will need to be maintained and/or replaced are things like the air filter, light bulbs, cabin filter, fluids, tires, air pressure, belts, and wiper blades.
These are basically all the maintenance tasks that you would expect in any vehicle. However, some of the unique maintenance tasks may include replacing the electric motor’s brushes or replacing the suspension’s shocks. The only large maintenance expenses will be when you must replace the hybrid car battery or some other major component. Fortunately, most of these bigger components will last for at least 80,000 miles. By that point, you’ll likely be ready to trade or sell your vehicle.
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