Enrolled in Hybrid and Electrical Mechanic Training? A Day in the Life of a Hybrid Mechanic
Today, hybrid vehicles are becoming increasingly popular, creating many opportunities for automotive professionals specializing in hybrid technology. Hybrid vehicles are equipped with both a gas-consuming engine and an electrical one. Given their use of fuel, there are many similarities when it comes to the maintenance of hybrid vehicles and gas-powered vehicles. However, not only do hybrid vehicles utilize a unique braking system, they’re also equipped with an electrical system that only a certified mechanic can navigate.
If you’re considering a career as a hybrid mechanic, your skills will enable you to service a range of hybrid vehicles, equipped with advanced knowledge of their unique technology. Below, discover what a day in the life of a hybrid mechanic might look like.
As a Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Mechanic, You May Conduct Routine Maintenance
After completing your hybrid and electrical mechanic training, a typical day on the job might include several different routine maintenance appointments. While general mechanics might be able to perform some routine work on hybrid vehicles, only hybrid-certified mechanics will be able to complete more specialized repairs or maintenance. As a hybrid mechanic, you may perform routine maintenance tasks such as engine oil changes, transmission fluid changes, tire rotations, inspections of brake pad wear, and more.
There are a few things to note when it comes to performing routine maintenance on hybrid vehicles. For one, because hybrid vehicles typically utilize a regenerative braking system in addition to a hydraulic system, the brake pads and rotors experience less wear and tear. While these components don’t need to be replaced as often as in conventional vehicles, regenerative brakes still require lubrication, descaling, and bleeding to keep them working properly. Additionally, the tires on a hybrid vehicle tend to wear out faster, as electric engines create more torque than regular engines. Thus, it’s important to never miss a tire rotation when servicing a hybrid.
Servicing a Hybrid Vehicle’s Electrical System
As a hybrid and electric vehicle mechanic, you’ll also have the unique skills necessary to service a hybrid vehicle’s electrical system. Throughout the day, you may be performing repairs on customers’ hybrid vehicles that are experiencing problems, and many of these problems may come down to the electrical system. Hybrid vehicles contain a high-voltage battery pack, which powers an electrical system extending throughout the vehicle. This battery pack is typically non-serviceable, but it lasts for a much longer period of time than conventional batteries. However, if a hybrid battery pack is air-cooled, its air filter may require regular cleaning or replacement.
Following Safety in Hybrid and Electrical Vehicle Servicing
When working to repair electrical problems in a hybrid vehicle, hybrid mechanics will need to wear thick, insulated gloves in order to ensure a safe repair, and disconnect all sources of power (including the battery) before beginning to work on the vehicle. Otherwise, technicians run the risk of electric shock. After completing your hybrid technology training, you’ll be well-versed in the safety practices that should be followed when servicing hybrid vehicles, enabling you to complete repairs beyond the scope of a general mechanic.
Ready to enroll in a hybrid and electrical mechanic course?
Get certified to work with hybrid vehicles with a program at ATC Surrey!
