How often should you service your plug-in hybrid?

Plug-in hybrids pair an electric motor with a combustion engine, so they need checks on both. Here’s how often to service your plug-in hybrid – and what to look out for.

Plug-in hybrids give you the best of both worlds, combining an electric motor with a petrol or diesel engine. This means they need a mix of electric and conventional car maintenance.

As your car gets older, things like the engine oil, brakes, tyres and battery can all need attention. How much you drive and how you use your car can also affect when different parts need checking or replacing.

Regular servicing helps catch problems early and keeps your plug-in hybrid running smoothly and safely.

This guide explains how often you should service your plug-in hybrid, what’s checked during a service and the warning signs to look out for.

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How often should you service your plug-in hybrid?

Most plug-in hybrids should be serviced once a year or every 10,000-20,000 miles, whichever comes first. Every car is different, though, so make sure you look over your owner’s handbook to find out what the manufacturer recommends for your vehicle.

Why is it important to service your plug-in hybrid?

Servicing your plug-in hybrid is important to keep both its combustion engine and high-voltage electric system running safely and efficiently. Regular maintenance can also help protect the battery and ensure your car continues to perform as it should over time.

Keeping up with servicing may also be a requirement of your warranty, while helping to spot potential issues early and reduce the risk of costly repairs further down the line. Overall, regular servicing can help extend the life of your plug-in hybrid and maintain its value.

What does a routine plug-in hybrid service include?

Here are seven key things you can expect to be included in a routine plug-in hybrid service:

1. Old engine oil is replaced and a new oil filter is fitted for the petrol or diesel engine.
2. Brake fluid, coolant, transmission fluid and screen wash are checked and topped up if needed.
3. Brake pads and discs are checked for wear, along with the condition of the brake fluid. Thanks to regenerative braking (a system that recovers energy when you slow down), brake wear can be reduced, but it’s still important to check for issues such as brake binding.
4. The condition and performance of the main hybrid battery are assessed.
5. The charging inlet and high-voltage cables are checked for signs of damage, wear or debris.
6. The inverter cooling system, which helps manage heat generated when converting power for the electric motor, is inspected.
7. Diagnostic checks are carried out to identify any fault codes relating to the hybrid powertrain or warning systems.

What determines how often you should service your plug-in hybrid?

Here are four factors that determine how often you should service your plug-in hybrid:

1. Most plug-in hybrids need servicing based on either how far you’ve driven or how much time has passed. Even low mileage, oil and other fluids can deteriorate over time.
2. Frequent short journeys, long motorway trips and regular use of the combustion engine can all affect how quickly certain components wear.
3. Plug-in hybrids have additional components, including a high-voltage battery, charging system and regenerative brakes, which need to be checked as part of routine maintenance.
4. Your vehicle handbook will set out the recommended servicing intervals. Following this schedule can also be important for keeping your warranty valid.

What are the signs you should get your car checked outside of the usual servicing window?

Your plug-in hybrid may need servicing if you notice any of the following warning signs:

• Your electric-only driving distance drops sharply for no clear reason.
• The petrol engine turns on immediately during low-speed driving or idle, even when the battery gauge shows a full charge.
• The car rejects a home or public charger.
• You hear a persistent, whirring cooling fan running in the boot or rear seat area after the car turns off.
• A red or amber warning symbol appears, such as the master warning triangle or a high-voltage battery alert.

What happens if you delay servicing your plug-in hybrid?

Delaying your plug-in hybrid’s servicing usually won’t cause sudden failure, but it can lead to:

• Its engine oil breaking down over time, reducing protection for the combustion engine
• Worn brakes, tyres or other components going unnoticed
• Problems with the hybrid battery, charging system or cooling systems being missed
• Small issues developing into more expensive repairs
• Reduced fuel economy and overall performance
• Potential problems with your warranty if you don’t follow the manufacturer’s recommended servicing schedule

How much does plug-in hybrid servicing cost?

On average, servicing a plug-in hybrid costs between £90 and £215 for an interim and minor service, and £185 to £350+ for a full service, according to car servicing and repair company Kwik Fit.

Plug-in hybrid servicing FAQs

Do plug-in hybrids need servicing every year?

Like all cars, plug-in hybrids need regular servicing – often annually or at set mileage intervals – to maintain warranty coverage and ensure safety.

Do plug-in hybrids need MOT tests in the UK?

Yes. Plug-in hybrids must have an MOT test every year once they are over three years old, just like a petrol, diesel or electric car.

How often do plug-in hybrid batteries need checking?

Batteries for plug-in hybrids should be checked during the car’s regular service, using diagnostic tools to monitor battery health.

Can you service a plug-in hybrid at any garage?

No. Plug-in hybrids should be serviced by garages that are trained and equipped to work on high-voltage electrical systems, including independent garages with the right diagnostic tools and qualified technicians.

Are plug-in hybrid servicing costs cheaper than petrol or diesel cars?

No, plug-in hybrids can cost more to maintain and service because they have both a combustion engine and an electric motor and battery, meaning more components need to be checked.

Does servicing a plug-in hybrid improve battery life?

Servicing your plug-in hybrids won’t make the battery younger or extend its natural lifespan, but it can help prevent unnecessary wear and keep it working efficiently for longer.

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