Oil Changes for your Hybrid Vehicle
The hybrid vehicle is a great way to travel, especially if you are looking for ways to make less of an impact on the environment. Or, perhaps want to cut down a bit on your gasoline usage. However, while you may not be using as much fuel, your hybrid vehicle still requires much of the same maintenance as a traditional vehicle. You still must keep the engine running smoothly and the filters changed. And you must ensure the tires are properly inflated, and the lights, wipers, and other parts of the car working correctly.
For the record, while a hybrid car works using an electric motor powered by a rechargeable battery it also has a combustion engine powered by gasoline. As such, this means that oil changes are still a part of vehicle maintenance.
FAQs about Hybrid Cars and Oil
How often do hybrid vehicles need the oil changed?
Perhaps surprisingly, the intervals between oil changes with a hybrid are similar to traditional vehicles. Typically, a hybrid can go a minimum of 5,000 miles between oil changes. However, as with non-hybrid vehicles, the length of time between oil changes depends on the type of oil used. Opting to use a quality synthetic oil can make the frequency much longer. Some hybrid owners can go as many as 10,000 miles between oil changes!
What type of synthetic oil is best for hybrids?
Because this will vary from vehicle to vehicle, it is best to check your manual. But in most cases, a 0W-20 is recommended over a 5W-20 or similar. Your hybrid typically requires a lower-weight oil to get the proper amount of lubrication. At AMSOIL dealer The House of Syn, choose from a variety of synthetics perfect for your hybrid. For example, choose the XL OW-20 Synthetic, an SAE 0W-20 LS-VW Synthetic European oil, or an OE 0W-20 Synthetic oil. You’ll find the perfect AMSOIL product for your hybrid.
What are the benefits of using synthetic oil in my hybrid?
Your hybrid runs at a lower temperature than a traditional combustion engine. Consequently, the amount of wear and tear is reduced in hybrid engines. Likewise, there is less sludge formation, and your engine will last longer. But using the right oil is key. Also, in hybrids, use synthetic transmission fluids to prevent oxidation while protecting the various electrical and conductive components.
What about the cost?
While synthetic oil does cost a little more than a conventional oil, it should be noted that because you can go much longer between oil changes, the cost is not significantly different. And, if you learn to do the oil change yourself (there are numerous YouTube videos you can learn from) you can take the DIY approach. In addition, if you purchase your oil directly from The House of Syn (or sign up to be a Preferred Customer or an AMSOIL dealer) you can save on the cost.
Do I need to go to a specific garage for my hybrid vehicle’s maintenance?
Many of the maintenance tasks associated with a hybrid are the same as with a traditional vehicle and can be done at your regular garage. However, those updates and maintenance jobs specific to a hybrid are often best done at a shop that specializes in hybrids.
Owning a hybrid doesn’t necessarily mean no car maintenance, but it does mean being intentional with what products you choose. Talk to an AMSOIL dealer House of Syn to determine the best products for your hybrid.
