
What Are Short Trips and Why Are They Bad for Your Car?
Do a lot of short-distance driving? It could be harming your car. Learn what short trips are, why they’re bad for your vehicle, and how to help prevent damage.
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Going electric is only growing with today’s hybrid and electric vehicles’ improving power and technology. Just like their gas-powered counterparts, these vehicles require regular maintenance to perform at their best. At your local Tires Plus, our technicians can help with standard services like taking care of brakes, tires, wheel alignment, and manufacturer suggested maintenance. Need more specialized service? Our technicians have the training to perform conventional and low-voltage services for electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles.
Store-by-store capabilities may vary for some limited services. Contact your local Tires Plus for more EV service details.
Because most EVs do not use the complex engine systems found in gas-powered vehicles, maintenance costs can be lower. But keep in mind you still have to schedule standard maintenance such as wheel alignment services and brake services, as well maintenance for the EV and hybrid batteries that power your vehicle.
Read more on how to budget for car maintenance and repairs >
With just a look under the hood, you’ll notice electric and hybrid vehicles are quite different from your traditional car. Hybrids work by using both a traditional internal combustion engine and the additional power of a battery and an electric motor. And on the other hand, most battery electric vehicles don’t use any gas at all! With benefits like lower yearly maintenance and slashed vehicle emissions, there’s a reason we’re seeing more of these vehicles on the road.
For standard services, like wheel alignments, tire rotations, and brake inspections, electric and hybrid vehicles need to come in just as often as any other vehicle. Hybrids additionally need oil changes so be sure to check your owner's manual or ask a Tire’s Plus professional if you’re unsure. However, there are places where these vehicles need less upkeep. Most hybrids and EVs use regenerative braking so the brakes typically see less wear but still need to be regularly inspected. Still, keeping up with regular maintenance and service at the first sign of trouble is the best way to take care of your vehicle and prevent major issues.
Learn how to find your manufacturer recommended maintenance schedule >
Do a lot of short-distance driving? It could be harming your car. Learn what short trips are, why they’re bad for your vehicle, and how to help prevent damage.
If you’re considering an electric car, you may have questions about batteries, like how long do battery packs last? Learn all about EV batteries in this guide!
An oil change is one of the most basic services a vehicle needs. Learn how often to schedule oil changes as part of your maintenance schedule.