Car Shops Adapt to Hybrids

The number of registered hybrid vehicles has increased 38% since 2006, and that number should only grow in the years to come. Because of the specialized technology in their cars, hybrid owners have been instructed to avoid independent auto repair shops in favor of mechanics at the dealer.

The Automotive Service Councils of California, a trade group representing independent auto mechanics, is trying to change that perception. As the group points out, part of their job is to keep up with an ever-changing industry.

Car dealers require that their mechanics be trained in servicing and maintaining any hybrid cars they sell, which means the factory provides their training. In order to stay competitive, though, independents provide a number of opportunities for their employees to stay up to speed on the latest technologies. This includes sending employees to training sessions and using computerized guides.

Still, as far as you, the consumer, are concerned, be sure to check with independents to make sure their mechanics have training in hybrids before bringing your car in for repairs. Alternative-fuel cars only comprise 1% to 2% of business for most of these mechanics, but hybrids are also relatively young cars right now. As they age, the need for repairs will rise.

Until the day when hybrids make up a large chunk of vehicles on the road and independents all have hybrid experts on staff, it’s probably not the worst idea to take your hybrid to the dealership for repairs and maintenance.

Car Shops Get a Handle on Hybrids (Sacramento Business Journal)