Common Hybrid Vehicle Issues You May Encounter as a Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Mechanic
Hybrid vehicles have become a source of pride for car manufacturers and owners, with the potential to leave a positive impact on the environment. The hybrid vehicles of today promise to reduce emissions, reduce fuel consumption, and reduce the cost of fuel for drivers. However, as with internal combustion engine vehicles, hybrids have common issues that owners and mechanics alike will need to confront. Hybrid vehicle technology is still evolving, and as a result, hybrid vehicles still experience a few recurring problems.
At ATC Surrey, you’ll receive hands-on training on servicing hybrids, performing general maintenance tasks and much more. Upon completing the program, you’ll be prepared to service hybrid vehicles and conduct repairs for common issues with confidence.
Read on to learn more about the prevailing hybrid vehicle issues you might encounter during your career!
Encountering Battery Issues After Your Automotive Hybrid Technology Training
Hybrid and electric vehicles face significant challenges when it comes to battery performance. During your auto mechanic career, you’ll notice that many of the hybrid vehicles entering your auto shop for repairs will be experiencing issues surrounding their battery. Even though the hybrid vehicle concept has evolved, batteries tend to be a major concern, as they are still being perfected in terms of weight and capacity. After completing your automotive hybrid technology training, you may notice that some battery issues force the hybrid’s engine to work harder than usual, while the battery itself may malfunction and fail all together. What’s more, some hybrid vehicle batteries won’t be able to work towards their optimal level of performance in extreme weather conditions. Whether it’s too hot or too cold, the battery may need to be replaced as a result of prolonged exposure to these temperatures.
Evaporative Emissions System Problems are Common
Emissions issues are common when it comes to a hybrid vehicle’s Evaporative Emissions (EVAP) system. As a hybrid and electric vehicle mechanic, you’ll notice that many hybrid vehicle owners face this problem, one which often triggers an illuminated Check Engine light. During your career, it’ll be up to you to diagnose the problem and trace it back to the EVAP system. An EVAP system is a closed system that works to capture vapour escaping from the fuel tank, preventing it from going back into the atmosphere. Common issues with the EVAP system can be traced back to a fuel tank leak, issues with the vent valves, a leak in the EVAP hose, or a missing or loose fuel cap. When one of these problems occurs, replacement parts are typically required, especially when valves or lines fail.
Look For Oxygen Sensor Issues
Throughout your automotive hybrid repair career, it’s likely that you’ll frequently encounter issues with hybrid oxygen sensors. When an oxygen sensor malfunctions, it can cause harm to the hybrid vehicle’s engine. Oxygen sensors are designed to regulate the amount of oxygen within a vehicle’s air-fuel mixture, monitoring the amount of unburned oxygen released in the exhaust system.
When oxygen levels are higher than normal, it can cause major issues with fuel economy, defeating a hybrid’s purpose as a fuel-saving vehicle. As oxygen levels rise, hybrid owners might notice it’s costing a lot more to fill up their tanks. Thus, when hybrid drivers enter your shop to determine why they’re consuming more gas than they should, it could be related to faulty oxygen sensors. As a mechanic, check the oxygen sensors first to determine whether they require replacement.
Are you interested in a hybrid and electrical mechanic course?
Contact ATC Surrey for more information!
