Eco-Friendly Driving with Subaru: Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Care

Your Subaru hybrid vehicle contains an engine and a hybrid battery with its specialized systems, and this engine requires the same maintenance as a standard gasoline engine. Despite this, Subaru hybrid maintenance can be more economical than maintaining a standard gasoline-powered vehicle. As your Subaru dealer, we want to tell you more about these differences.

Reduced Brake Maintenance

When a gasoline or diesel-powered vehicle brakes, brake fluid is forced through the brake hoses to the calipers. The highly pressurized brake fluid forces the pins out of the calipers, and they close on the wheel rotors. The calipers contain brake pads, which have a rough covering that generates friction against the rotors and brings the wheels to a stop. The heat and friction of braking cause wear and tear on the system components.

Your hybrid uses regenerative braking, which reduces wear and tear. When you take your foot off the gas, the motor stops powering the wheels, and your vehicle slows. The kinetic energy produced by the wheel movement is collected by the motor and converted to electricity. This electricity is used to recharge the battery. Regenerative braking produces less friction, increasing the life of the brake pads, rotors, and other braking components.

Longer Oil Life

Oil is vital for the engine, as it lubricates all moving parts. This lubrication coats the components in a friction-resistant covering, protecting them from wear and tear. This helps your engine operate efficiently, so you’ll use less fuel. Oil additives break down potential engine blockages that can cause damage. The oil gradually thickens due to the accumulation of dirt and debris and generally needs replacement after approximately 5,000 miles.

Your hybrid uses its electric motor to replace the engine in certain situations. When you idle, for example, the engine switches off, and the battery maintains power. In addition, at low speeds, the battery powers the wheels. Reduced engine usage results in longer periods between maintenance and increases oil life.

Reduced Engine Maintenance

Your gasoline engine requires the same maintenance as a standard vehicle, as we saw above, but its serviceable components last much longer. This allows you additional time so you can more easily plan for scheduled maintenance like spark plug replacement, belt tensioning, and fuel injector cleaning.

Your hybrid contains many specialized components, including the electric motor and battery pack, but these systems require little or no maintenance. The battery, for example, is covered by warranty for eight years or 100,000 miles and generally doesn’t require replacement during your Subaru’s lifetime.

If you’d like to know more about your Subaru hybrid’s maintenance or to book maintenance, contact our service department today at Dean Team Subaru in Ballwin, MO.

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