subject: How Auto Repair Is Different On Hybrid Vehicles [print this page] Those looking to save money at the gas pump have been happy to find the hybrid vehicles on the market. These vehicles use a gas and electric motor to power the vehicle down the road. The vehicle normally starts using the electric motor and alternates between gas and electric as it is driving down the road. The switch tends to happen whenever the vehicle feels that there is not enough electrical power or if the acceleration calls for the power only combustion can provide. The thing many people worry about when purchasing these vehicle is in terms of auto repair. Only knowing gas engines can leave you unprepared for what you will face when repairing your hybrid vehicle. Here are some things to keep in mind.
How Hybrid Vehicles Work
As a new hybrid vehicle owner, it is a good thing to know how these vehicles operate. As you are driving, the vehicle is constantly charging the battery for use while in electric mode. Every time you step on the brakes to slow down, the vehicle will charge. It makes it possible to get the results needed to save at the filling station. As long as you are making sure to invest in general car maintenance, the battery will last a long time. Replacing the battery is a large expense, but the technology is being innovated to help these cells last even longer.
Integrated Transmissions
Part of what helps to power the electric motor is the integrated transmission. Unlike other transmissions, this transmission actually benefits from downshifting. The turning of the gears as the vehicle slows down allows the battery to charge even more. Even when you are not stepping on the brakes, it is possible for the vehicle to get the charging help it needs to power along down the road. The ability to get this means these vehicles can only be made using automatic transmissions. It is just one more part of hybrid vehicles which is completely automated. It also means that there are fewer major repairs as long as you are following the maintenance schedule.
The Trade-Off of Fuel Efficiency
One of the biggest drawbacks to owning hybrid vehicles is the trade-off that comes along with fuel efficiency. At stake to most people is the power that is available when driving these vehicles. Because of the battery powered electrical engine, it is not possible to have a gas engine that offers a lot of power. It is the reason why the industry has been so slow to take hold.
As more power is being made available while still getting good gas mileage, more people have been buying hybrid vehicles instead of combustion. Keep in mind that as long as you are maintaining the engine properly with the help of ASE master technicians, it is possible to still get a decent amount of power out of your vehicle. This makes it easy to get down the road at a fair clip. Even if it means you will not be tearing up the asphalt, you will appreciate the difference it means when looking at the price of gas and the general upkeep of the vehicle overall.
by: Tony Rammer
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