HYBRID & Electric VEHICLES
Hybrid & Electric Vehicle Services:
- Diagnostic testing for hybrid and electric vehicle warning lights, performance concerns, and system faults.
- High-voltage battery health checks and system inspections using modern diagnostic equipment.
- Testing and replacement of conventional 12-volt batteries.
- Electric motor and hybrid drive-system diagnostics.
- Gasoline engine maintenance and repair for hybrid vehicles.
- Inspection and service of regenerative and conventional braking systems.
- Cooling-system maintenance for hybrid and electric vehicle components.
- Heating and air-conditioning diagnostics and repair.
- Tire service, computerized alignments, steering, and suspension repairs.
- Pre-purchase inspections for used hybrid and electric vehicles.
Hybrid and electric vehicles require specialized knowledge in addition to many of the same services needed by conventional vehicles. At Central Auto Repair Shop, our technicians use modern diagnostic equipment and careful service procedures to help Valparaiso-area drivers maintain and repair their hybrid and electric vehicles.
Hybrid Vehicle Care
Hybrid vehicles combine a gasoline engine with one or more electric motors and a high-voltage battery system. Along with routine services such as oil changes, brake inspections, tire rotations, alignments, and heating and air-conditioning repairs, hybrids may require diagnostic testing for their batteries, electric motors, regenerative braking systems, and related electronics.
Because the gasoline engine and electric drive system work together, a problem in one area can affect the vehicle’s overall performance, fuel economy, or drivability. Our team can evaluate warning lights and performance concerns to help identify the source of the problem.
Electric Vehicle Care
Electric vehicles do not require engine oil changes, but they still need regular care. Tires, brakes, steering, suspension, wheel alignment, cooling systems, climate-control systems, and conventional 12-volt batteries should all be inspected and maintained.
The added weight and instant torque of an electric vehicle can also affect tire and suspension wear. Routine inspections can help protect ride quality, handling, and tire life while catching developing problems before they become more expensive.
Signs Your Hybrid or Electric Vehicle Needs Service
- A hybrid-system, battery, or electric-vehicle warning light appears.
- The vehicle’s electric range or fuel economy decreases noticeably.
- The vehicle hesitates, loses power, or switches between power sources roughly.
- Charging takes longer than expected or becomes inconsistent.
- The brakes feel different or regenerative braking performance changes.
- You notice unusual noises, vibrations, or changes in handling.
- The heating or air-conditioning system stops working properly.
- Tires begin wearing unevenly or more quickly than expected.
Hybrid and electric vehicle technology can vary considerably by manufacturer and model. Call Central Auto Repair Shop at (219) 242-8213 to describe your vehicle and the problem you are experiencing. We’ll confirm how we can help and arrange a convenient time for service.
