Bangkok: In response to the increasing popularity of hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles in Thailand amid fluctuating oil prices and advancing automotive technology, there is a surge in advice shared on social media about maintaining these vehicles. However, the accuracy of these tips can often be questionable. To address this, the "Sure Before Sharing" center of MCOT Thai News Agency, along with Mr. Surin Singhaoh, a technical expert from Toyota Motor Thailand Co., Ltd., has provided clarity on six common maintenance tips circulating online.

According to Thai News Agency, these experts aim to demystify the widespread advice by addressing several claims about hybrid vehicle maintenance. Here is a detailed look at each of the six tips:

1. Battery Management: Contrary to popular belief, letting the battery run completely dead is not an issue with hybrid vehicles. The hybrid system's electronic control unit ensures the battery's state of charge is maintained between 30% and 70%, preventing it from fully depleting.

2. Regular Engine Start: It is true that starting your car every 3-5 days is beneficial. This practice warms up the engine to prevent damage from inactivity and recharges the 12-volt battery, especially if the vehicle uses additional electrical devices.

3. Regenerative Braking: The notion that lightly tapping the brakes assists in battery recharging is false. The vehicle's logic automatically manages regenerative braking, which is activated by simply releasing the accelerator.

4. Overnight Charging: Concerns about charging plug-in hybrids overnight are unfounded. The onboard charger system safely manages the power supply, allowing for overnight charging without battery damage.

5. Mode Switching: For plug-in hybrid users, switching between hybrid modes is valid advice. Regularly using hybrid mode ensures engine components are lubricated, extending the engine's lifespan.

6. Inverter and Battery Filter Maintenance: It is important to regularly clean the inverter panel and hybrid battery filter, as dust and debris can clog these components, affecting battery cooling.

Additional expert recommendations include adhering to the manufacturer's fuel requirements and ensuring accurate maintenance to optimize vehicle performance. By supplementing shared information with these insights, hybrid vehicle users can maintain their vehicles effectively and safely.