PHEVs require maintenance for both internal combustion engine (ICE) components and electric systems, with some components needing more frequent attention compared to EVs or traditional hybrids. Key areas include:
Internal Combustion Engine Components
- Oil changes and engine fluids: Like conventional vehicles, PHEVs need regular oil changes (every 3,000–5,000 miles), along with spark plug and filter replacements.
- Engine belt and timing components: Must be inspected periodically due to wear and tear.
Hybrid-Specific Components
- Battery health: Requires monitoring to avoid extreme charging (0% or 100%) and exposure to temperature extremes. While minimal maintenance is typical, coolant levels and software updates need checks.
- Inverter coolant: Specific to hybrid systems, requiring regular inspections to prevent overheating.
- Regenerative braking system: Reduces brake pad wear but may require checks for brake binding and fluid quality.
- Charging port and high-voltage wiring: Inspections ensure safe operation and connectivity.
Comparative Considerations
- EV components (e.g., motors) in PHEVs require less maintenance than ICE parts, but hybrid systems add complexity not found in pure EVs.
- Brake longevity: While regenerative braking extends pad life, PHEVs still need more frequent brake inspections than EVs due to combined ICE usage.
PHEVs demand dual maintenance regimes, combining traditional ICE upkeep with hybrid-system checks.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/are-there-specific-components-in-phevs-that-require-more-frequent-maintenance/
