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By 2030, all new car registrations in Singapore are required to be cleaner energy models, including electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). Registrations for new Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles will cease by 2030, and they will be fully phased out by 2040. In the face of a changing car landscape, it is recommended that car owners understand the maintenance requirements of each car type to maximise their vehicle’s efficiency and longevity.
To help you prepare for your next workshop visit, we have broken down the essential differences in servicing and maintaining these three types of cars.
Petrol cars are familiar to many car owners, and the ICE engines demand regular attention due to their complexity. This creates a strict maintenance schedule that involves oil changes and spark plug replacements to keep the car running smoothly.
Regular engine oil changes are required for lubricating moving parts, reducing friction, and preventing wear and tear. A clean oil filter stops impurities from circulating through the engine and improves fuel efficiency.
Spark plugs need to be replaced from time to time to maintain efficient fuel combustion, and prevent engine misfires.
Petrol cars rely on other essential fluids for enhancing performance, such as coolants, brake fluid, transmission fluid and power steering fluid. Regular replacement of these fluids maintains them at the proper level to keep your car in good working order.
An electric motor and a large battery pack power electric cars. They have fewer moving parts than ICE vehicles, which means that the absence of an engine eliminates most conventional car maintenance issues, such as oil changes, spark plug replacement, and exhaust leaks. However, a simpler mechanical system with fewer moving parts does not mean less maintenance is required.
Regular battery diagnostics are important for detecting voltage inconsistencies between cells. Car technicians usually scan the Battery Management System (BMS) to analyse battery cell data and overall system health. Additionally, the thermal management system must be inspected to ensure the battery coolant is fresh and that the cooling pump is functioning properly, as this is particularly crucial in Singapore’s tropical climate, where heat damage can occur.
EVs use regenerative braking, a system that captures and converts a vehicle’s kinetic energy into electricity to recharge the battery, instead of dissipating it as heat. The electric motor works in reverse to slow down the car, while sending energy back into the battery. This feature reduces wear on friction brakes and extends the life of the brake pads and rotors, often two to three times longer than an ICE car. However, the brake fluid still needs flushing every 18 months or 30,000 km, as it absorbs moisture over time.
Tyre wear occurs more frequently as EVs are heavier than ICE cars due to their large battery packs. Tyre rotations, balancing, and alignment checks are important due to the suspension components sustaining higher levels of stress caused by instant torque (acceleration).
Although EV maintenance is less frequent and intensive, the focus remains on regular diagnostics, monitoring the battery system, software updates, brake fluid checks, and managing tyre wear.
Hybrid cars offer the best of both worlds, acting as a technological bridge between the ICE and EV. Since HEVs use an ICE engine with an electric motor and battery, they offer better fuel economy than ICEs by employing the electric motor at low speeds.
The petrol engine still requires standard oil and filter changes, along with spark plug replacements. Since the electric motor assists the engine, it is used less than a standard ICE car engine.
Most hybrid car batteries are air-cooled by a fan that pulls air from the car’s cabin. The fan’s cooling filter has to be cleaned, or else the battery will overheat.
Hybrid cars utilise regenerative braking, which means their brake pads last longer than in ICE cars but shorter than in EVs. Their specialised transmissions (such as e-CVTs) require specific transmission fluid checks and changes to ensure peak efficiency.
Hybrid car maintenance demands the utilisation of both traditional components and advanced electrical systems. Owning a hybrid car usually involves engaging the essential services of a specialist workshop.
Whichever type of car you own, selecting the right workshop is vital for enhancing your car’s performance and longevity. Since 2012, Hybrid Shop Pte Ltd has been specialising in battery diagnostics, conditioning, and replacement. We offer a range of servicing and repair solutions for both Hybrid and Electric Vehicles. If your car requires a routine maintenance check or more complex repairs, we are ready to assist you. Do not hesitate to get in touch with us! Contact us today for a consultation.
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Hybrid Shop Singapore is founded and led by Mr. Sky Tiek, who is a veteran in the automotive repair industry with more than 35 years of experience, ranging from race car modification to all other repair and maintenance for all car makes and models.
