Singapore is making efforts for a greener city. But, you are likely to see more hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) on the street. However, owning these eco-friendly vehicles means navigating a service landscape. This landscape differs significantly from traditional petrol or diesel cars. Because hybrids and EVs need special attention, proper equipment, and qualified technicians should work on them. Given that technology is popular and rules are strong in Singapore, all car owners need to be aware of these differences. This article analyzes the major differences between servicing hybrid and EV vehicles and servicing ICE cars in the local setting.1. Looking After High-Voltage Batteries:
The main contrast is that a high-voltage battery system powers EVs and hybrids. You need special equipment, appropriate knowledge, and safety gear to work on these batteries. While lead-acid batteries power ICE cars, EVs depend on lithium-ion packs that somebody must routinely pay attention to, checking their condition, charging, and how they keep cool. Due to Singapore’s tropical weather, how a building is managed for thermal comfort is very important. High-voltage component handling workshops have to be certified.
2. Regenerative energy system:
EVs and hybrids recover their energy. They do so using regenerative braking. Although it cuts back on brake wear, the system requires advanced sensors and electronics. Servicing regenerative braking includes testing the electronic braking system, checking the right brake fluid, and doing necessary calibrations. Because every mechanic in Singapore has not been trained for this, you should choose a center where technicians are trained to maintain EVs.
3. Forgetting to change the engine oil:
Because they have no engine, EVs are not required to change their oil, saving owners both time and money. Even though hybrids contain a combustion engine, they still need to have their oil replaced at times. It significantly changes the routine for when aircraft are serviced. Since they need little maintenance, EV owners in Singapore enjoy savings on routine visits and eventual maintenance expenses, a big advantage of Singapore’s expensive living costs.
4. Cooling Systems in Batteries and Electronics:
In Singapore’s hot climate, regularly check your EV or hybrid’s cooling system for leaks, monitor pump performance, and verify consistent temperature levels to prevent overheating, ensure longevity, and maintain optimal performance and reliability of your vehicle always.
5. Tools and Software Specific for Diagnostics:
To service EVs and hybrids, technicians sometimes use unique tools from the vehicle’s maker to understand the health of the battery, update the software, and fix faults. EVs need advanced software rather than the OBD-II readers in ICE vehicles. In Singapore, authorized service centers located by Tesla, Hyundai, and BYD are equipped with the necessary tools, but some small workshops do not have them.
6. Transmission and Drive Systems:
Since EVs have just one driving gear, they do not require the complex gearboxes found in similarly powered ICE cars. Because of this, the car requires transmission fluid changes and related services less often. Even with hybrids, especially those that use a plug-in system (PHEVs), you should keep an eye on CVTs or dual-clutch transmissions. Handling transmission jobs in a hybrid vehicle usually means working with technicians who understand both types of propulsion—they are rare, but their number is on the rise in Singapore.
7. Charging System and Port Maintenance:
In contrast to petrol cars, EVs must maintain charging ports and onboard charging systems and support the standards used by public charging points. Problems charging your phone can be caused by faulty connectors, misaligned software, or anything foreign found in the port. Given the growing number of EV chargers in Singapore (such as through SP Group and Shell Recharge), EV service centers must find and repair any problems quickly.
8. Ensuring the Vehicle’s Weight and Suspension
Because of their battery pack, electric vehicles, and hybrids usually weigh more than other types of vehicles. Having extra weight in your vehicle can cause bushings, struts, and shocks to wear out more quickly. In Singapore, suspension service or replacement mechanics should be aware of the impact of load to ensure safety for the vehicle’s passengers and users.
9. Taking Care of Your Air Conditioning:
EVs usually use the air conditioner to keep the battery from overheating. The same design makes AC servicing useful for comfort and keeping your battery healthy. Periodically changing the filters and replenishing the refrigerant now matters a lot. Workshops have to recognize that these two fields overlap to prevent damage to the cooling system.
10. Fewer Moving Parts, Different Wearing Patterns:
At the same time, vehicles of this type still need to be checked for steering, tires, brake fluids, and essential electronics. Owners in Singapore report less vehicle damage yet must head to service centers able to diagnose EV concerns such as increased tire wear because of instant torque.
11. Testing the Break System and Brake Fluid:
Regenerative braking saves your pads, but you still need to keep the hydraulic systems well-maintained. Brake fluid can perform poorly if it absorbs moisture. Even when brake pads look new, tested intervals for EVs must still be followed in the country’s moist weather.
12. Following Certification and Regulation:
The Singapore government, through the Land Transport Authority (LTA), ensures that there are strict regulations when it comes to EV maintenance and repair. You should ensure the workshop you choose is certified and has all the proper tools. Because of the Electric Vehicle Common Charger Grant, a longer list of service centers is on its way to being compliant.
13. Emergency Shutoff and Safety Course:
Technicians servicing EVs must know about emergency shutoff switches, how to use insulated tools, and the need to use PPE. All EV workshops should use guidelines from ISO 6469. Improper handling of high-voltage components may harm both technical workers and vehicle owners.
14. Being Qualified from a Workshop and Meeting LTA rules:
In Singapore, only vehicles can be serviced at workshops licensed by the LTA and equipped with EV training and tools. Tesla, Hyundai, and BYD have their own service centers, but more independent workshops are now getting ready to serve EV customers. Both the EEAI and ECCG are encouraging users and workshops to work toward a future where electric vehicles are the norm.
Ending Note!
People and companies need to change their thinking and training to service these vehicles in Singapore. Many traditional workshops struggle with EVs because they cannot diagnose advanced electrical parts of these cars like installers can. Besides, they reduce the work required for upkeep and support more environmentally friendly operations. As more EVs are sold, certified centers will appear to help meet their service demands. By servicing your car at a shop trained in EV and hybrid systems, Singaporean drivers can feel safe, confident about its performance, and comfortable in the city’s fast-changing auto market.