Fixed Ops Magazine - 2023 Vol 20 06 - 49

Many of these vehicles/powertrains appear at dealership
repair shops all over North America. Our field
research at BG, confirms that owners of HEVs/PHEVs
purchase and drive these vehicles primarily for the fuel
economy and reduced emissions. Like all vehicles, HEVs
and PHEVs require vehicle maintenance to maintain the
fuel economy and emissions efficiency.
THE RISING TREND
OF HEV AND PHEV SALES
Research shows 7.9% of 2023 model year U.S. sales have
been hybrids compared to 6.7% for model year 2022 vehicles.
As consumer awareness of environmental concerns
and the benefits of electric propulsion continues
to rise, it is expected that the trend will persist.
This surge in HEV and PHEV sales represents a shift towards
cleaner transportation. For dealerships, this shift
presents a unique opportunity to expand their service
offerings, particularly in the realm of preventative maintenance.
By adapting to the unique maintenance needs
of these vehicles, dealerships can tap into this expanding
and often overlooked market to establish themselves as
trusted partners for eco-conscious customers.
OPPORTUNITIES IN PREVENTIVE
MAINTENANCE
Oil Changes: HEV and PHEV vehicles
have two main sources of power: an
electric motor and an internal combustion
engine. In most cases these internal
combustion engines are smaller than traditional gasoline
and diesel powered engines, but they still require
engine oil to operate properly and at peak performance.
Most HEVs/PHEVs have 7,500-mile drain intervals; dealerships
can educate their customers about this ongoing
need to keep their HEV and PHEV vehicles operating
efficiently.
Transmission
Services: HEVs and
PHEVs most often use Continuously
Variable Transmissions (CVTs) or dual-clutch
transmissions, which require
annual maintenance. The median age
of registered HEV/PHEV vehicles is 5.5 years old with
60K-70K miles on the odometer. These stats are perfect
for a transmission fluid exchange. Dealerships can
offer transmission fluid changes and inspections to ensure
optimal performance and longevity. Highlighting
the importance of these services can help customers
avoid costly repairs down the road while generating additional
revenue for dealerships.
Cooling System Services: Efficient cooling
systems are crucial for the proper
functioning of hybrid and plug-in hybrid
vehicles. Regular maintenance of the
cooling system, including checking for leaks, ensuring
proper coolant levels, and inspecting the electric cooling
fan, can prevent overheating and expensive component
failures. Based on the average age 5.5 years old
and 60K-70K miles, nearly all HEVs/PHEVs also need
NOVEMBER DECEMBER 2023 || FIXED OPS MAGAZINE
49
Fixed Ops Magazine - 2023 Vol 20 06

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Fixed Ops Magazine - 2023 Vol 20 06
