4 habits toward a healthy hybrid vehicle

The number of Filipinos who are considering switching to hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) is gradually rising. HEVs appear to be a better alternative because of their fuel-efficient and self-charging systems, especially in the current situation of rising fuel prices and environmental crisis.

However, some car enthusiasts are put off by HEV's maintenance requirements, which are actually not that far from those of a traditional car. No vehicle is completely safe from the road risks caused by the rainy season, whether they be electric, hybrid, or traditional vehicles. It is important to regularly check and maintain your car to ensure safety.

Here are four habits, courtesy of PSBank and Toyota Motor Philippines, that every HEV owner should practice to minimize road risks.

Check the tires and brakes and see if there are any leaks

Rainy season makes tires and brakes highly prone to damage. To avoid potential issues and accidents, check your tires for any holes or suspicious rapid loss of air pressure before hitting the road. HEVs have regenerative braking systems, which benefit from more heat and friction. Check your brakes or take your HEV to a nearby dealer for a quick checkup.

Check the rubber seals around the doors, windows, hood, trunk, and taillights and clear out any debris to prevent water pooling that could lead to leaks.

Be aware of battery health

The battery life of a car can be reduced to one or two years in cold and wet weather. If there are any indications of drying out or bloating, make plans for a replacement immediately. The battery can also be easily tested using a multimeter.

The heat produced by an HEV's electric battery pack for its regenerative braking system could affect the temperature of the electric motor's clamps, pipes, and hoses.

Strictly follow maintenance schedule

The simplest way to ensure that your vehicle is in good shape and will not break down while driving is to keep track of its mileage and maintenance schedule. The usual frequency of routine maintenance is every three months or 5,000 kilometers, whichever comes first.

Acquire car insurance

There are limitations to how you can maintain your car, and there are still chances of experiencing unforeseen car trouble and inconveniences. In these situations, a car insurance provider is your partner, and having dependable car insurance can help avoid trouble and extra expenses. Since insurance can also be pricey, take advantage of auto loan promos that offer free insurance.

Philippine Savings Bank (PSBank) and Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) have partnered to launch the Say Hi to Hybrid Auto Loan promo that offers lower rates for Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8V Hybrid and Toyota Corolla Altis 1.8V Hybrid CVT.

“This latest partnership with PSBank is exciting for us because having comprehensive car insurance alongside lower rates is important for our customers. Cars are huge investments for our clients and it is important that they have peace of mind when it comes to being prepared for unforeseen circumstances,” TMP Assistant Vice President and Marketing Services Head Elvin Luciano stated.

Every purchase of any participating model comes with a free one-year comprehensive insurance. To learn more about the Say Hi To Hybrid Auto Loan promo, visit any PSBank branch or log on to the PSBank website. The promo runs until August 30.

“Through this partnership with Toyota, we fulfill our brand promise of ‘Simple Lang, Maasahan’ by providing our customers with easy access to eco-friendly HEVs and easing the worries about maintenance with free insurance,” PSBank Senior Vice President and Marketing Division Head Emmanuel Tuazon said.

Photo from PSBank