Maximizing Your Electric and Hybrid Vehicle's Lifespan

June 6, 2024

Maximizing Your Electric and Hybrid Vehicle's Lifespan: Essential Maintenance Tips

Maintaining your electric or hybrid vehicle is crucial to ensure it runs efficiently and lasts as long as possible. At Wayside Garage, we specialize in providing top-notch maintenance services for all types of vehicles, including electric and hybrid models. In this blog post, we'll cover essential maintenance tips to help you get the most out of your investment.

Understanding Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Maintenance

Many people believe that electric and hybrid vehicles require less maintenance compared to traditional gas or diesel engines. While it's true that these vehicles have fewer moving parts, they still need regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly.

Key Maintenance Areas for Hybrid Vehicles

Hybrid vehicles, like the Chevy Volt, combine a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor. This setup means they have all the usual components of a gas-powered car, plus additional systems that need attention. Here are some key areas to focus on:

1. Engine Oil: Hybrid engines don't run all the time, which can cause more sediment and fuel to accumulate in the engine oil. Regular oil changes are essential to keep the engine clean and running efficiently.

2. Cooling Systems: Hybrids often have multiple cooling systems for the inverter, battery, and engine. Regularly checking and maintaining these cooling systems is crucial to prevent overheating and costly repairs.

3. Fluid Checks: All fluids, including coolant and transmission fluid, can deteriorate over time. Regular checks and replacements help maintain optimal performance and prevent issues like electrolysis, which can damage high-voltage systems.

Essential Maintenance for Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles (EVs) like the Chevy Volt are primarily powered by batteries, which require specific care to ensure longevity and performance. Here are some maintenance tips for EV owners:

1. Annual EV Inspection: At Wayside Garage, we offer a comprehensive annual inspection that includes checking fluids, hoses, and undercarriage components. This inspection helps identify potential issues before they become major problems.

2. Brake Service: Electric vehicles use regenerative braking, which means brake pads may last longer, but the calipers and pistons still need regular servicing to prevent them from seizing up.

3. Filters and Tires: EVs and hybrids have specific filters for the battery compartment that need regular cleaning or replacement. Additionally, because these vehicles are heavier due to the battery, they require special tires that can handle the extra weight and reduce road noise.

Proactive Maintenance Saves Money

While electric and hybrid vehicles can be economical in the long run, neglecting regular maintenance can lead to costly repairs. Simple services like fluid exchanges, tune-ups, and inspections can save you from expensive replacements and keep your vehicle running efficiently.

Trust Wayside Garage for Your Vehicle Maintenance Needs

At Wayside Garage, our ASE certified hybrid and EV technicians are dedicated to providing the best service for your vehicle. We offer pre-scheduled reservations to ensure your maintenance needs are always met promptly. Contact us today at (831)-899-2425 or visit our website to schedule your next service.

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Brake inspection, Car safety, Brake maintenance, Brake pad replacement, Wayside Garage

WHEN SHOULD I GET MY BRAKES INSPECTED?

By Stacey Diaz • October 14, 2025

Not sure when to check your brakes? Learn the signs and timing for brake inspections — and why October is a smart time to visit Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA.

ARE MY BRAKES SAFE?

By Stacey Diaz • October 14, 2025

October is more than just pumpkin patches and crisp fall air. For many families in Monterey, it's also the start of darker evenings, wetter roads, and more time on the road. That’s why October is the perfect time to think about one of the most important safety features on your vehicle: your brakes. At Wayside Garage, we participate in the Brakes for Breasts campaign every October. It's not just about brake repair — it’s about raising awareness, supporting breast cancer research, and keeping our community safe on the roads. ________________________________________ What Are the Signs Your Brakes Might Need Attention? Your brakes are your first line of defense in an emergency. If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it’s time to get your brakes checked: • Squealing or grinding noises • A soft or “spongy” brake pedal • Car pulling to one side when braking • Vibration or shaking when you press the brakes • Increased stopping distance Ignoring these signs can lead to expensive repairs down the road — or worse, a serious accident. We always say: if it feels off, bring it in. ________________________________________ Why Brake Inspections Matter More in Fall With more rain, shorter days, and holiday travel ahead, your brakes are under more stress in the fall. At Wayside Garage, we see an uptick in emergency brake repairs this time of year — many of which could have been avoided with a quick inspection. Our certified technicians will perform a comprehensive brake check, looking at: • Brake pads and rotors • Brake fluid level and condition • Brake lines and hoses • Calipers and hardware And if you’re part of our Wayside Garage Maintenance Plan, your brake inspections are included with your scheduled services. That’s one more reason to stay on track with routine care. ________________________________________ Brakes for Breasts: Repair With a Purpose Every October, we join auto shops nationwide for the Brakes for Breasts campaign. Here’s how it works at Wayside Garage: • You get free brake pads (you only pay for labor and any additional parts if needed). • We donate 10% of the brake job to the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Fund. It’s a meaningful way to protect your family on the road while supporting groundbreaking research that could change lives. ________________________________________ Why Choose Wayside Garage for Brake Service? We know you have options when it comes to brake repair in Monterey. So why do so many drivers trust us? • Family-owned and operated since 1946 • ASE-certified technicians who care about doing it right • Honest inspections and clear explanations • Free digital vehicle health reports • A shop built on integrity, hospitality, and professionalism When you bring your vehicle to us, you're not just another ticket — you're part of the Wayside Garage family. ________________________________________ Schedule Your Brake Inspection Today October is the best time to have your brakes checked — and support a great cause while you're at it. Whether you’re noticing a problem or just want peace of mind before the holidays, give us a call or schedule an appointment online. Let's keep your vehicle — and your community — safe this fall.