Today, we can find three distinctly different propulsion systems for cars: internal combustion, hybrid and electric. The latter at the moment is typically battery-electric with fuel cells now also becoming increasingly popular. When it comes to servicing, each of these will require their own sets of skills and tools.
Electric vehicles, especially hybrids, the skill set required to service and maintain them is different from that of internal combustion engines. A good indication of whether or not a workshop is equipped to deal with electric cars is to see if they have a couple of computers in their workshop. Most of the electronic components require diagnostic software and hardware matching the brand of car being examined. German Motors prides itself in constantly adding diagnostic tools to meet the demand from the market.
The education of the technicians needs to be challenged when picking a workshop to handle hybrid or fully electric cars. Their knowledge needs to be refresh regularly, as the new technology rapidly evolves. Asking about where and when the workshop crew has been trained should be an answer that is to be given proudly. Certificates should be on display to attest the ability to handle your vehicle.
As a vehicle owner, before any service, one should be aware of any dashboard warning lights or error messages popping up. Drivers are advised to check if there are any open recalls or service campaigns related to the vehicle. When going through the work to be performed during a service, these items should be added to the scope of work. This would indicate that the workshop team is on top of their game and thorough in their examination of the vehicle.
The layman may not be familiar with the equipment needed to service Hybrid or Battery Electric Cars. However, an innocent question regarding the safety around the high-voltage components of the vehicle may reveal what items are on hand to ensure a safe working environment.
German Motors urges owners of electric or hybric cars to refrain from trying to fix electrical components themselves. Although electricity, as a source of energy, has many advantages, but is often more dangerous to work with. Only qualified personnel should be fixing any problems with this type of car.
