Preventive maintenance is not just about changing oil or strictly following the manual. It’s about understanding the car’s usage pattern, the aging of components over time, and the signs that indicate wear before it becomes a problem.
In electric and hybrid vehicles, many things have changed, but the logic remains the same: servicing at the right time prevents breakdowns, extends system lifespan, and helps you spend smarter — without improvisation that compromises safety.
Maintenance by mileage: what to observe at each stage
Mileage indicates mechanical and usage-related wear. Even in electric cars, many items follow the same logic as combustion models.
- **Up to 10,000 km**: alignment and balancing, tire check, brake inspection, and basic fluid checks. - **Between 20,000 and 30,000 km**: filters (cabin air and engine air, if applicable), tire rotation, suspension and steering inspection. - **Above 40,000 km**: closer attention to brakes, shock absorbers, bushings, bearings, and the air-conditioning system.
In electric vehicles, brake wear is usually lower due to regeneration, but this does not eliminate the need for periodic inspection.
Maintenance by time: what expires even with low mileage
Some components age even if the car is driven very little. Ignoring the time factor is a common mistake.
- **Engine oil (combustion and hybrids)**: loses properties over time, even without driving. - **Brake fluid**: absorbs moisture and must be replaced according to the recommended interval. - **12V battery**: suffers from time, heat, and charge cycles, including in electric cars. - **Tires**: dry out and lose grip even with good tread depth.
Driving little does not mean being free from maintenance.
What changes in electric and hybrid cars
Electrified vehicles simplify some aspects but require attention in others.
- There is no oil change for the electric motor. - The cooling system for the battery and electronics is critical and must always be up to date. - Software updates can impact efficiency, consumption, and system operation.
Maintenance tends to be more predictable, but it is not nonexistent.
Warning signs that should not be ignored
Some symptoms indicate that something is off and deserve quick inspection:
- Warning lights on or persistent messages on the dashboard. - New noises on uneven surfaces or when braking. - Vibration in the steering wheel or pedal. - Range dropping abruptly without a change in usage. - Strange smells or excessive heating after use.
Waiting for the next scheduled service can be costly.
How to save on maintenance without losing safety
Saving money is not about skipping services, but about making more efficient choices.
- Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance plan, but adapt it to your actual usage. - Rotate and properly inflate tires to reduce wear. - Avoid parts of dubious origin for safety-related items. - Address small repairs early before they turn into major replacements.
In the long run, preventive maintenance costs less than corrective maintenance.
Simple checklist for everyday use
A basic routine helps detect problems early:
- Check tires and inflation at least once a month. - Notice changes in driving behavior. - Monitor warnings on the dashboard and in the vehicle app, if available. - Keep records of services and interventions.
Taking preventive care of your car is one of the most consistent ways to ensure safety, predictability, and better use of technology — especially in electric and hybrid vehicles, where everything works in an integrated way.
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