The Essential Guide to Ford Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Care

If you’re a first-time hybrid or electric vehicle owner, you might have some concerns about maintenance. Fortunately, once you understand your vehicle’s needs, caring for your hybrid or EV is generally easy and affordable. Your Ford dealer can help answer your Ford hybrid maintenance questions and provide quality service for your vehicle.

 

Ford Electric Vehicle Maintenance Tips

One of the many benefits of electric vehicles is that they typically require less maintenance than gas-powered vehicles. With no internal combustion engine, you don’t need oil changes, and thanks to regenerative braking, your brakes should last longer. The battery in your new Ford EV requires minimal maintenance and is covered by an 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty. You can maximize your battery’s longevity by keeping it charged between 20 and 80 percent and avoiding overcharging.

Your Ford EV uses liquid coolant to maintain a safe temperature, so you should check the fluid and hoses regularly. Tire care is especially important. EVs deliver impressive torque; the Mustang Mach-E, for example, can produce up to 700 lb-ft of torque with the GT Performance Upgrade. This can be harsh on your tires, so it’s important to inspect them for wear and replace them when necessary.

Ford Hybrid Maintenance Tips

Hybrid powertrains combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor. In addition to reducing fuel consumption, the electric motor reduces wear and tear on the gasoline engine, which means you’re less likely to encounter engine problems. However, your hybrid still needs routine engine maintenance, such as oil changes.

A regular hybrid vehicle relies on the engine and regenerative braking to replenish the battery. The battery can run out if you let your vehicle sit unused for long periods, so it’s good to drive your hybrid regularly. If you have a plug-in hybrid, you can charge it like you would an EV, taking the same precautions to avoid overcharging. You can schedule charges and set charging limits using your vehicle’s SYNC 4 touchscreen or the FordPass app.

Services Available at Your Ford Dealer

When you need service for your Ford hybrid or EV, your dealership is the place to go. You can save money on maintenance and repairs by purchasing a Ford Protect plan. These prepaid plans can protect you from unexpected maintenance expenses and increases in parts and labor costs. Ford Protect Premium Maintenance Plans and Extended Service Plans are honored at any Ford vehicle dealership, and special plans for EVs are available.

To learn more about hybrid and EV ownership or schedule service for your Ford, contact Chestatee Ford in Dahlonega, GA today.

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