Hybrid Service Guide

Hybrid cars are becoming increasingly popular - and for good reason. They offer the fuel-saving, low-emission benefits of electric vehicles, but without the range anxiety that sometimes comes with going fully electric. 

But as more drivers make the switch, a new question arises: how do you maintain a hybrid properly?

If you're unsure how a hybrid service differs from a standard one, or whether your local garage is even equipped to handle it, you're not alone. 

We will have a look at what’s checked, how often you need it, and why hybrid servicing matters.

How Is a Hybrid Service Different?

On the surface, hybrid cars look like any other petrol or diesel model. But under the bonnet, they’re doing quite a bit more. 

A hybrid system typically includes a combustion engine, one or more electric motors, a high-voltage battery, and a host of specialised electronics.

That dual setup means hybrid servicing isn’t just a checklist of traditional tasks. 

They’ll still need oil changes, brake inspections and tyre checks, but there’s also a range of hybrid-specific components that will need attention.

What’s Involved in a Hybrid Car Service?

A good hybrid service will include all the routine checks you'd expect in a standard car service, like:

• Engine oil and filter change
• Brake inspection and fluid top-up
• Tyre condition and pressure check
• Cabin and air filter replacements
• Suspension and steering system inspection

But there are several extras too. These include:

Battery Health Check

The high-voltage battery is central to your hybrid’s performance. A technician will run diagnostic tests to assess battery capacity, voltage levels and charging efficiency. For plug-in hybrids, they’ll also check the external charging port and cables.

Inverter Coolant Inspection

Hybrids use inverter coolant to keep their electric powertrain cool, separate from your engine coolant. During servicing, this is checked for levels and any signs of leaks.

High-Voltage System Inspection

Hybrid cars run on systems operating at significantly higher voltages than regular vehicles. Cables, insulation, connectors -  all are inspected for wear, corrosion or safety risks.

Regenerative Braking Check

Because hybrids often rely on regenerative braking (which recovers energy when slowing down), their brakes can behave differently. Pads might last longer, but they can also suffer from binding or corrosion due to lower use - so a proper check is essential.

How Often Should a Hybrid Be Serviced?

Most hybrids follow the same general schedule as petrol or diesel cars - usually every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first.

However, if you drive frequently or mostly in stop-start traffic (where the electric motor is more active), it’s worth considering interim services every 6 months. These can help spot issues early, especially with brake components or battery cooling systems.

Always follow your manufacturer’s guidance, as different models may have specific requirements.

Difference Between Full, Interim and Major Service

At Blackcircles.com, we offer three types of hybrid service: Interim, Full, and Major. 

Each one is tailored to suit different levels of usage, vehicle age, and service history.

So, whether you're driving short daily commutes or clocking up longer motorway miles, there's an option to match your needs.

• Interim Hybrid Service - Best suited for high-mileage drivers or those looking for a mid-year check between full services. It includes essential maintenance such as oil and filter changes, top-ups of key fluids, and safety checks across major components like brakes, tyres, and lights.
• Full Hybrid Service - Recommended annually, the full service builds on the interim by covering a wider range of checks. This includes a thorough inspection of the engine, steering, suspension, and crucial hybrid-specific components — like inverter coolant and high-voltage system diagnostics — ensuring everything is working as it should.
• Major Hybrid Service – This is coming soon.

Is Hybrid Servicing Worth It?

Absolutely. Hybrids are built for efficiency, but they’re still machines - and like any machine, they need care. Regular servicing protects not just your warranty or resale value, but your car’s long-term performance.

If you're unsure whether your last service covered the hybrid system properly, or you’re due for one soon, it’s worth speaking with a qualified technician. Ask if they’re trained for hybrid servicing. It’s a simple question - but an important one.

Hybrid cars might be the future, but looking after them well? That’s still very much in your hands.