Do Hybrid and Electric Cars Need Maintenance? Here’s What Most Drivers Don’t Know

You’ve made the smart move. Whether it was for the fuel savings, environmental impact, or just to experience the future of driving, you’ve gone hybrid or electric. But here’s the million-dollar question we hear all the time at Chancy Auto: 

“Do electric or hybrid cars really need maintenance?” 

It’s easy to assume that with fewer moving parts and no traditional engine, your vehicle might just take care of itself. But the reality is — while maintenance for hybrid and electric vehicles is different, it’s definitely not nonexistent. 

Let’s bust some myths, clear up confusion, and help you keep your EV or hybrid running like the high-tech machine it was built to be. 

Hybrid and Electric Maintenance: Less, But Not None 

It’s true — EVs and hybrids typically require less frequent service than gas-powered vehicles. They don’t need oil changes, spark plugs, or fuel filters. That’s great news. But here’s where it gets tricky: a lot of EV owners assume that means they can skip service altogether. 

That’s a dangerous myth. 

What you’re really doing is swapping one kind of maintenance for another. Hybrid and electric cars still rely on tires, brakes, coolant systems, suspension components, and complex software systems — all of which need regular check-ups. 

And for hybrids? You’ve got both worlds under the hood: electric and gas-powered. That means dual systems = dual responsibilities. 

What Kind of Maintenance Do Hybrids and EVs Actually Need? 

Here’s a quick breakdown of the top things we see in the shop when working on electric and hybrid vehicles: 

Battery System Health Checks 

Your EV or hybrid battery isn’t just one big unit — it’s a complex system. These batteries contain hundreds of individual cells, managed by an onboard system called the Battery Management System (BMS). This system constantly monitors temperature, voltage, and performance to keep things running smoothly. 

Over time, factors like extreme heat, repeated fast charging, or infrequent driving can cause cells to degrade unevenly. That degradation can reduce range, slow charging times, or even trigger warning lights. 

Tire Wear & Alignment 

Electric and hybrid vehicles weigh more than traditional gas cars. For example, a Tesla Model 3 weighs over 4,000 pounds — several hundred more than a gas-powered sedan. That extra weight puts increased pressure on your tires, especially during acceleration and cornering (instant torque = more stress). 

Here’s what we often see in our shop: 

• Premature inner edge tire wear due to misalignment 

• Feathering or cupping from unrotated tires 

• Tire blowouts on older EVs running the same set for too long 

  
  

On top of that, many EVs come with low-rolling resistance tires to increase range, but those wear out faster if neglected. 

Brake System Maintenance 

Regenerative braking is a genius piece of tech — it uses the electric motor to slow the vehicle down while recapturing energy and sending it back to the battery. As a result, brake pads and rotors on EVs and hybrids can last much longer than on traditional vehicles. 

But here’s the catch: because the friction brakes are used less often, they’re more prone to rust and corrosion. 

In places with humidity or where the vehicle sits for long periods, rotors can develop surface rust that reduces braking power or causes vibrations. Also, brake fluid still ages and absorbs moisture over time, which affects performance. 

HVAC and Cabin Filters 

Most drivers don’t realize that the HVAC system in an EV or hybrid plays a big role in energy efficiency. Unlike gas cars that use engine heat to warm the cabin, EVs rely on electric heaters or heat pumps — and those draw power from your battery. 

If your cabin air filter is clogged or your A/C system is struggling, it forces the vehicle to work harder, reducing your overall range and comfort. 

Signs your HVAC system needs attention: 

• Weak airflow or odd smells 

• A/C not cooling efficiently 

• Decrease in estimated driving range during hot or cold weather 

  
  

We recommend replacing the cabin filter annually and inspecting the system seasonally. You’ll breathe easier and drive farther — a win-win. 

Software & System Updates 

Modern EVs and hybrids run on software — not just for navigation or entertainment, but for core functions like battery management, power delivery, braking, and driver-assist features. And just like your smartphone, they need updates to fix bugs, improve performance, or enhance safety. 

Some updates happen over-the-air (OTA), but not all. Others require a qualified technician to install manually, especially in hybrid vehicles or older models. 

Are Hybrid and Electric Cars Cheaper to Maintain? 

Short answer: usually, yes — but only if they’re properly maintained. 

Studies show that EV owners can save about 20-30% in maintenance costs over the life of the vehicle. But that savings assumes you’re proactive. If battery issues or component failures go unchecked, those savings can disappear fast. 

For hybrids, the savings can be less dramatic, since you’re still servicing a traditional combustion engine and an electric system. But the good news? Preventative care goes a long way. 

Why EV and Hybrid Owners Trust Chancy Auto 

At Chancy Auto, we’re not stuck in the past. Our team is trained and equipped to handle today’s most advanced vehicles — from plug-in hybrids to fully electric sedans and trucks. 

Whether you’re dealing with software diagnostics, battery concerns, or brake system calibration, we’ve got the tools and experience to get it done right. And just like with any car we service, we treat your vehicle like it’s our own — no shortcuts, no surprises. 

Our focus on quality, trust, and attention to detail is why EV and hybrid owners keep coming back. 

Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore 

Own a hybrid or EV? Here are some red flags that mean it’s time to schedule a check-up: 

• Strange noises when braking 

• Sudden drops in range or battery efficiency 

• Dashboard warning lights (especially related to battery or charging) 

• Uneven tire wear 

• Reduced A/C or climate performance 

Final Thoughts: Maintenance Isn’t Optional — It’s Smart 

Just because you drive a high-tech vehicle doesn’t mean you’re off the hook for service. In fact, being proactive with your hybrid or EV is the smartest way to protect your investment and maximize performance. 

Let our team at Chancy Auto keep your vehicle in top shape — no matter what powers it. 

✅ Ready for your hybrid or EV check-up? 

Hybrid and electric vehicles need a shop that understands the technology behind them — and knows how to keep them running at peak performance. At Chancy Auto, we invest in the tools, training, and expertise it takes to service today’s most advanced vehicles with precision and care. 

From battery diagnostics and brake inspections to tire alignment and software updates, every service we offer is backed by a commitment to quality and attention to detail. You can count on clear communication, honest recommendations, and expert results every time.

Schedule your hybrid or EV service with Chancy Auto today — and stay ahead of the curve with a team you can trust.