Getting Collision Repair for Hybrid Vehicles in Fayetteville, NC

Not every body shop is equipped to handle hybrid vehicles, as they come with unique challenges. Choosing the right collision repair in Fayetteville, NC, will ensure that your mechanics can overcome those challenges. Take a closer look at the complexities of repairing hybrids and the types of repairs you may need from Reed-Lallier Body Shop. 

Why Repairing Hybrids Is a Challenge

Unless you choose an experienced hybrid vehicle collision repair center like Reed-Lallier Body Shop, there may be some issues along the way. The biggest obstacle is the fact that hybrids and plug-in hybrids have more complex electrical components and equipment. 

If the technician repairs or incorrectly diagnoses an electrical part, it can affect the hybrid’s ability to function at all. 

Expensive Batteries

Another consideration is that hybrid batteries can be expensive, easily costing several thousand dollars. Sometimes, a good technician can save the battery, but that’s not always possible. At the very least, you need someone familiar with hybrid batteries to inspect them after a collision. 

Crash Procedures

Yet another challenge is that hybrid automakers typically have specific protocols for first responders. Those protocols mean that you may have to wait longer for the car to get to the body shop and be repaired. 

Common Post-Collision Repair Issues in Hybrids

There is a lot of overlap between collision repair in Fayetteville, NC, for hybrid vehicles and traditional gas-powered ones. But there are also some systems that are more likely to need repairs on hybrids, including the following. 

Cooling System

Hybrids tend to have a more complex cooling system compared to traditional cars. This means that the system is harder to repair or replace, leading to increases in cost as well. 

High-Voltage Batteries

As mentioned, the batteries in hybrids are unique. On top of their structural and functional complexities, they have a high voltage. Their voltage can lead to serious injury or even death if mishandled. For your safety, hybrids disable the voltage system in a collision. You’ll need a trained technician to correct the issue. That’s part of the reason this can be such an expensive repair. 

Painting

Just like any auto, hybrids are likely to need a fresh coat of paint after an accident. But experienced auto shops doing hybrid collision repair in Fayetteville, NC, know that you need to use lower curing temperatures. That’s because the battery can be damaged if it is exposed to temperatures above 140 degrees Fahrenheit. As such, body shops have to adjust their default curing process slightly for hybrids, at least the temperature used. 

What Else to Know About Repairing Hybrids After Collisions

An experienced auto shop doing hybrid collision repair in Fayetteville, NC, will know that hybrids have to be towed on flatbed trucks. If they are towed with a traditional tow truck, this can lead to damage. 

Technicians also know that they must wear gloves while repairing hybrid vehicles. This is due to the number of high-voltage components, including the battery. Additionally, technicians have to disassemble the electrical propulsion system before they can work on it. Reassembly can be challenging for those without much experience.

Trust Reed-Lallier Body Shop With Your Hybrid Collision Repair in Fayetteville, NC 

Reed-Lallier Body Shop in Fayetteville, NC, has experience working on hybrid vehicles. We will give your hybrid the special care it needs following a collision, getting it back to working order as quickly as possible.