Hybrid Car Repair in Honolulu

Hybrid cars are becoming more and more common, and for good reason. Not only do they perform the same function as standard autos, but they use less gas and are better for the environment. The Toyota Prius is probably the most recognizable hybrid car on the market, but there are now numerous options from multiple brands like Lexus, honda, Hynudai, and more.

What is a hybrid car?
For those who are new to this type of auto, a hybrid car is one that combines a gas motor and an electric one (or more) to achieve better mileage. There is a battery designed especially for hybrid cars installed into the vehicle, and this is separate from the 12V battery that is still required. The hybrid battery is recharged by both the gas motor + regenerative braking from the car as it slows/stops. This energy is stored in the hybrid battery, and the car can operate off of this stored energy up to a certain point, when the gas motor will then take over. This combination of technology allows hybrid cars to achieve mileage of approx. 55 - 57 MPG, on average. When properly maintained, these cars can give you years of trouble-free performance and enjoyment.

How do I know if I need maintenance on my hybrid car?
It's important to understand that a hybrid car needs a specialized kind of maintenance and service compared to a regular, internal combustion engine vehicle, or an electric vehicle. Since hybrid cars have both kinds of motors, you'll need to pay attention to mileage in order to know when you'll need an oil change or 12V battery replacement. However, if you are experiencing a decrease in power or mileage, this can be an indicator that you need to have a professional check your vehicle's system and determine if there's a problem to be addressed. These symptoms can mean that your hybrid battery has a decreased storage capacity and may need to be reconditioned or replaced. Masaki's Auto Repair has diagnostic tools that allow us to "speak" with your hybrid and determine exactly where the issue is and quickly implement a solution. We can also replace your vehicle's hybrid battery, or if you are the owner of an electric vehicle, we can help you maintain them as well.

It is a fact that every hybrid car's battery will degrade over time, some faster than others. Their primary batteries are nickel-metal hydride modules (NiMH). Every 60,000 – 80,000 miles, a NiMH battery needs to go through a series of deep discharge and recharge to keep it running at its optimal performance. It can never be brought back to 100% but we can commonly reach levels of 80-90% after this process. *Note* not all NiMH battery can achieve 80-90%

This process is the only assurance to lengthen the life of your hybrid battery, improve gas mileage and performance. (Similar to having a tune-up on a conventional gas operated car). This information is not shared or discussed at the car dealer service department and sales department before you purchase your hybrid car. They simply do not have this level of knowledge and equipment to perform this type of maintenance to your hybrid battery.

Masaki's Auto has the equipment, knowledge, and experience to perform this kind of preventative maintenance and repair, if needed. Our team of experts specialize in Toyota Prius cars, and not only can we recondition or replace your hybrid car battery, we are Honolulu's only certified hybrid repair shop and have have over 12 years of experience to get you back on the road quickly! Here are some other things that hybrid car-owners need to be aware of to ensure the longevity of their cars:

1. The CVT transmission/ electric/ generator motor in your hybrid car has no filter. Over a period of time, your transmission fluid acts like a sponge and collects moisture. Moisture and electric does not go well with each other. At 60,000 - 80,000 miles, we recommend that your CVT be drained and that the filter be replaced.

2. Hybrid/electric vehicles do not require much mechanical braking power to slow down your car. "Regen Braking" is what mostly slows down your hybrid car and it uses the kinetic energy from a car's momentum to recharge your hybrid/electric car’s battery. As your car ages, the guide pin for your brake calipers can get sticky or frozen due to lack of use. This guide pin should be regularly inspected and lubricated to prevent brakes from binding and losing gas mileage over time.

3. Hybrid cars have a gas engine that requires spark plugs to operate. (Same as regular gas cars). Many owners are unaware of this and may neglect their spark plugs. If your car has 120,000 miles and has never been changed, we highly recommend replacing them and can take care of this for you.

Masaki's Auto Repair is located at 2211 S. Beretania St. in Honolulu. In addition to hybrid car repair, we also offer Automotive Maintenance & Repair on non-hybrid vehicles. We have been in business in Honolulu for over 40 years, and we can address almost any repair need you have for an auto. Please check our current promotions or use the red button to request an appointment for your vehicle.