The arrival of hybrid and electric cars has brought with it many questions. Do they break down less? Is it extremely expensive to replace the battery? Are the same spare parts used as for a regular car? Between rumors and real data, it's easy to get lost.
That's why today we're going to separate myths from truths, with simple explanations and practical advice that will help you whether you already own one of these cars or are thinking about making the leap.
1) Myth: “An electric vehicle doesn't need maintenance”
The truth is: they need fewer things to check, but they are not care-free.
They don't use engine oil or fuel filters, and their mechanics are simpler than those of a gasoline or diesel car. However, they still have tires, brakes, shock absorbers, a climate control system, and an auxiliary battery (the typical 12V type) that need to be maintained.
👉 Tip: Think of maintenance as an ever-changing list of parts, not something that disappears. You save on some services, but new ones appear, like battery cooling.
2) Myth: “Brakes last forever”
The truth is: they last longer, but they are not eternal.
Regenerative braking means that in the city, the electric motor slows a large part of the car, which greatly reduces wear on the brake pads. But that doesn't mean they shouldn't be checked: moisture and lack of use can also damage them.
👉 Tip: If you drive mostly on highways or motorways, check your brakes as you would with any conventional car.
3) Myth: “If the battery breaks, I’m ruined”
The truth is: it's true that the battery is the most expensive part of an electric vehicle, but its price is coming down.
Furthermore, you no longer always have to replace the entire battery: refurbished batteries or module repairs are available, which significantly reduce the cost. And manufacturers typically offer warranties of 8 to 10 years, which covers most drivers.
👉 Tip: If you're buying a used electric car, always ask for a "battery health" report, which indicates how much capacity it has left.
4) Myth: “Any workshop can repair it”
The truth is: not all workshops are prepared.
Working with high-voltage components requires specialized training and appropriate tools. While more and more workshop networks are investing in this, it's not yet universal practice.
👉 Tip: Look for certified workshops or technicians specializing in hybrids and electric vehicles, especially if the problem affects the battery or electronics.
5) Myth: “There are no alternative replacements”
The truth is: it depends on the type of part.
For wear parts like filters, windshield wipers, or tires, there are replacements equivalent to the originals. However, for more delicate components such as inverters or battery modules, it's usually best to use original or officially refurbished parts.
👉 Tip: Cheap isn't always expensive, but with critical electrical parts it's best not to take risks.
6) Myth: “Fast charging damages the battery”
The truth is: it's not that dramatic.
Fast charging generates more heat and, if used constantly, can accelerate wear and tear. But manufacturers are already designing their batteries with cooling systems that control this.
👉 Tip: Ideally, charge at home at a slower rate (using a typical plug or wallbox) and leave fast charging for long trips.
7) Brands that are paving the way
- Toyota and Lexus → pioneers in hybrids, with very long warranties on batteries.
- Nissan and Renault → with models like Leaf and Zoe, very popular in Europe.
- Tesla, Hyundai-Kia and BYD → leaders in pure electric vehicles, with an ever-increasing presence in Spain.
- Spare parts manufacturers such as Bosch or Valeo → already offer training and parts adapted to this new market.
8) Practical tips if you are thinking of switching to hybrid or electric
- Always ask about the battery warranty.
- If it's second-hand, ask for the battery status report.
- Calculate the savings carefully: although the purchase is more expensive, maintenance and "fuel" (electricity) are usually cheaper.
- Check that there are nearby workshops prepared to service this type of car.
Fewer parts to replace, but more information to have
Hybrid and electric cars are neither as cheap to maintain as sometimes claimed, nor as impossible to repair as feared. The key is to be informed, choose quality replacement parts, and rely on qualified workshops.
Electrification is transforming the automotive world, and both drivers and workshops have an opportunity: to learn to navigate this new landscape. In the end, what matters remains the same as always: safety, reliability, and peace of mind on the road.
