Hybrid & EV Car Maintenance — What Perth Hills Drivers Need to Know
Hybrid and electric vehicles are becoming a common sight across the Perth Hills — and for good reason. They’re quiet, efficient, and designed for long-term reliability. But while they need less frequent maintenance than traditional petrol cars, they’re not “set and forget.”
At Auto Response in Stratton, our technicians are trained in both hybrid and EV diagnostics — helping local drivers keep their advanced systems running safely and efficiently.
Here’s what every hybrid and EV owner should know about proper maintenance.
1. Battery Health Matters — But It’s More Than Just Charge
Your hybrid or EV battery is built to last — often 8 to 10 years or more — but its condition depends on how it’s used and maintained.
Temperature, charging habits, and software updates all impact performance over time.
During a hybrid or EV service, our team:
Checks battery cooling systems and fans
Monitors charge balance and voltage performance
Tests high-voltage cables and connections
Ensures your battery management system is functioning correctly
Even a simple issue like a blocked cooling fan can shorten battery life — which is why regular check-ups are essential.
2. Hybrid Engines Still Need Oil Changes
One of the most common misconceptions about hybrids is that they don’t need oil changes.
While your petrol engine runs less often, it still operates under high load — especially in stop-start traffic or hilly terrain like Perth Hills.
Skipping oil changes can cause sludge build-up or poor lubrication.
At Auto Response, we use manufacturer-approved synthetic oils and service schedules designed specifically for hybrid systems, ensuring smooth transition between electric and petrol power.
3. Brakes Last Longer — But Need Regular Checks
Hybrid and electric vehicles use regenerative braking, which helps recharge the battery while slowing the car.
This means your brake pads and discs wear more slowly — but they still require inspection.
Why? Because corrosion and moisture can affect braking performance over time, especially if the car sits for long periods.
We clean and inspect braking systems as part of every hybrid and EV logbook service to ensure consistent, safe stopping power.
4. Cooling Systems Keep More Than Your Engine Cool
Both hybrids and EVs rely on multiple cooling systems — not just for the engine, but for the battery pack, inverter, and onboard electronics.
Overheating can lead to reduced performance or expensive electronic damage.
Our technicians check and top up specialised coolant fluids and inspect all electric drive cooling circuits for leaks or corrosion.
5. Software & Diagnostics Are Key to Long-Term Reliability
Modern hybrids and EVs depend heavily on software. Fault codes, firmware updates, and communication between sensors all affect how efficiently your car runs.
At Auto Response, we use dealer-grade diagnostic equipment to perform full system scans, identify potential issues early, and apply necessary updates.
That’s why we say — “we don’t guess; we diagnose properly.”
Why Hybrid & EV Servicing Is Best Left to Trained Technicians
Hybrid and EV systems operate at voltages up to 650 volts — not something any mechanic should handle without the right equipment or qualifications.
Our Stratton workshop is equipped and trained for:
Hybrid battery conditioning
EV diagnostics and fault testing
High-voltage safety procedures
Cooling system and electrical repairs
We service leading models like Toyota Prius, RAV4 Hybrid, Hyundai Ioniq, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, and more — following all manufacturer servicing standards.
Book Your Hybrid or EV Service in Stratton
Whether you drive a plug-in hybrid or a full EV, you can count on Auto Response for expert, manufacturer-compliant servicing right here in Stratton and the Perth Hills.
