All posts tagged battery

How Servicing a Hybrid Is Different Than a Traditional Vehicle

by Anica Oaks on 2016/04/22 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off on How Servicing a Hybrid Is Different Than a Traditional Vehicle

Hybrid automobiles have experienced a dramatic rise in popularity over the past decade. Although today’s hybrid vehicles look virtually identical to traditional cars, they have a more sophisticated drivetrain. Here are some of the main differences when it comes to serving a hybrid car.

Longer-Lasting Brake Pads

The majority of modern hybrids feature regenerative braking technology. When activating the brakes, the electric motor engages into what is called reverse mode, which uses the kinetic energy of a hybrid vehicle’s braking system to recharge the car’s batteries. This means that significantly less wear and tear is placed upon the brake pads, and you will have an additional source of electricity to charge your battery.

Hybrid cars also have a backup system of friction brakes just in case the regenerative brakes don’t provide enough stopping power. Hybrid owners will not need to replace their brake pads nearly as often. However, the braking system still should be inspected at least twice a year by a licensed professional who knows how to work with hybrid braking systems.

Battery Replacement

Unlike a traditional automobile, a hybrid vehicle implements the use of a small electric engine and a battery pack. While the electric motor requires very little attention, the battery pack may fail after about 100,000 miles. Luckily, replacement batteries can now be purchased at a specialty automotive parts store. The battery is engineered with a complex wiring system, so the best approach is to allow an Arnold Motor Supply professional or one in your area to perform the installation. Keep in mind that some hybrid batteries also have an air filter that must be replaced, though in the long run these vehicles will require decidedly less maintenance.

Extended Oil Change Intervals

Hybrid engines are designed to perform efficiently. Because of the electric motor’s assistance, the gas engine does not have to work as hard. Although the engine will definitely require an oil change, the interval will be much longer than normal. In fact, you can safely drive 10,000 miles between each oil change. If the oil needs to be changed, the vehicle’s oil life monitor will give you a prompt service warning.

Requires a Skilled Mechanic

Hybrid engines are a bit more complex than the typical gas engine. Unless you are a highly trained automotive technician, you may not be able to perform all of the recommended maintenance. To protect the various components from excess heat, hybrids are designed with multiple cooling systems. While regular vehicles use an alternator, a hybrid is equipped with a special AC-DC converter. Not only are some of the tasks complicated, but they are also quite dangerous. Mechanics must use an extra degree of caution when working around electrical parts.

As you can see, a hybrid vehicle has a lot of differences underneath the surface. The good news is that a hybrid is not much noticeably more expensive to maintain in the long run.

Snow Approaches: 4 Winter Weather Checks for Your Car

by Anica Oaks on 2015/11/04 in Auto Care with Comments Off on Snow Approaches: 4 Winter Weather Checks for Your Car

Before winter weather and heavy snows hit, it is vital for automobile owners to check some things on their vehicles. By being prepared, drivers can prevent a breakdown in frigid temperatures. Many automobile products can be purchased ahead of time to fit into any budget.

Coolant and Windshield Washer Fluid Levels

Checking the fluid levels of the coolant and in the washer bottle is an important part of maintaining a vehicle for winter. Antifreeze may not sound important, but it is the fluid that keeps a vehicle cool. An automobile can overheat in the winter without proper coolant levels, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure.

Tires

Every driver should regularly check their tire pressure and the tread level on their tires. A low tire can not only cause more fuel to be consumed, but it can also cause a vehicle to slide on ice more easily. It is easier to get an under-inflated tire stuck in deep snow.

Restock Emergency Kit

The U.S. Government suggests that one of the most important things that drivers can do is to prepare their emergency road kit with items needed for snow and ice. Adding a bag of sand and salt to the car can help when getting stuck in the ice or heavy snow. A shovel, warm clothing, extra blankets, and food rations are other items that should always be in an emergency kit during the winter.

Hoses and Belts

Hoses and belts can easily rip or break from dry rot. The cold temperatures of winter make it more difficult for hoses and belts to maintain their shape because of contraction during freezing temperatures. Any hairline cracks, bulges, or weak spots will burst or rip when the temperatures drop and the snow flies.

Windshield Wipers

Every driver wants to maintain clear vision while they are driving. Regularly replacing windshield wipers by purchasing them at a local store (including with coupons for Sears.com) is a huge part of keeping a good view. Drivers should think about replacing their wipers every fall to make sure they have excellent visibility when the weather turns cold.

Battery

A car or truck battery is stressed to the max when the temperatures drop. The cold can zap the energy in a battery quicker than anything else. Drivers should always make sure the terminals are clean and free of corrosion before the snow hits.

Getting a vehicle ready for snowy weather is a simple process as long as the driver follows the above strategies. Keeping a car or truck prepared for winter is a crucial part of being safe. Many products can be purchased ahead of time like windshield wipers and coolant.