Hybrid Vehicle Services

An Hybrid electronic vehicle has two engine components in one:

• A regular Internal Combustion Engine(ICE)
• and an electric vehicle component

Both working in harmony to reduce your gas consumptions.  Like with all vehicles, you should follow a regular maintenance schedule so your hybrid runs as efficiently as possible, for as long as possible.

A hybrid relies on both gas and electric power. The electric engine typically kicks in when the car is moving at low speeds or idling. 

Because it uses a gasoline engine, you need to keep your gas engine maintenance routine. Check and change your oil (usually synthetic), your fluids, filters, spark plugs and all the rest. 

You’ll notice that you have to change these things much less because the gasoline engine isn’t in use as much. At Federal we will let you know the suggested mileage for regular maintenance, accounting for the harsh driving conditions in Trinidad and Tobago.

The reliance on electric power means that your battery is being used more, but there isn’t any special maintenance to be done on a regular basis. 

• The electrical components in hybrid cars are designed to be maintenance-free, and thus don't require any of specialist maintenance. 
• Most manufacturers also offer warranties on the battery. 
• That said, you should check the battery, power cords and connections during every engine tune-up, to ensure that everything is in proper working order (included in our inspection Service)

Hybrid vehicles come with a regenerative braking system that makes your brake pads and rotors last much longer. Exactly how long will be up to your model and driving habits. 

• Maintain your brake inspection schedule just as often as with a normal gasoline powered vehicle.  However, know that you should expect the components to last a longer time between replacements.

Enormous amount of heat is generated because of the regenerative braking system and hence the cooling system should be in prime condition at all times. Note the extreme climate conditions in Trinidad and Tobago put additional strain on the Hybrid's cooling system.

We recommend a regular cooling system inspection.  Check individual hoses, pipes and clamps and any additional air filters used in the motor and battery heating and cooling system.  As well as battery fans.

Hybrid cars work at their peak when they are driven in conditions they were designed for - inner city, high traffic, stop and go conditions.

If you want to feel the powerful roar of an engine and be faster than anyone else, sell your hybrid and buy a regular internal combustion engine vehicle.

Hybrids employ sophisticated electronics with wiring systems and electronic components that are more complex than that of a regular ICE car.  You want your Hybrid Vehicle serviced at a shop that has trained technicians, proficient in dealing with such components.

At Federal, we have: 

• Hybrid Vehicle trained technicians
• the necessary specialized tools and diagnostic equipment, 
• and the experience.

 Don't risk your vehicle at a shop that is not qualified to work on your vehicle.  Trying to save a few dollars may end up costing you significantly more in the long run.  Contact our Federal Service Manager today to discuss your Hybrid Vehicle needs.