Tag: hybrid

Its got to be the plug. Its about the plug!

Charge image 2About the plug

A friend passed along a New York Times article titled Should I Get a Hybrid or Go Full Electric? The title is linked. After reading it, and combined with additional information that was already running around my head, I emailed him back remarking that its all about the plug!

Two hybrids

The article explains the two types of hybrids: conventional and plug-in. Conventional hybrids have a battery that powers an electric motor to augment the gasoline engine. It also incorrectly seems to suggest that energy from braking alone charges the battery, when in fact the gasoline engine charges the battery continuously.

A plug-in hybrid has a larger battery that can powering car solely with electricity for short distances, on average 40 to 50 miles. And they can be charged using the same Level 1 or Level 2 chargers that EVs use. High power Level 3 charging is off the table, which the article misses.

But this is not intended as a critique of the article…

So, back to the point. The battery in a plug-in hybrid will be charged by the gasoline engine if its power is drained, operating exactly as a conventional hybrid.

Imagine you are the owner of a plug-in hybrid. Theoretically, if you drive less than the battery’s range, you can go indefinitely with using any gasoline. What’s needed now is a convenient place to plug in, and the willingness to, in effect, manage an EV!

Further, in the scenario described, a plug-in hybrid needs to be plugged in daily. A full EV only needs a charge maybe once or twice a week!

This is what was rummaging through my mind. The European auto market is down, way down, and only one segment one segment is up, albeit slightly. And its the conventional hybrid market.

Its all about the plug!

Plugging in is the change. As a people, we’ve grown accustomed to driving and stopping randomly for a fill-up. The plug is the change of religion. Everything else is essentially the same: a steering wheel, accelerator pedal, brake pedal, and on and on and on.

Hybrid Charging Station SignIn the interim, the EV market continues to grow, and despite problems in Europe, faster than anyone imagined, exposing more and more drivers to the “new” religion.

The last hurdle will ultimately be more places to actually use the plug!

Heck, even EVs have warning lights. Lots of them. See our page here.

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Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2024/09/its-got-to-be-the-plug-its-about-the-plug/

Battery charge and warning symbols count on our page now at 14

Battery Charge and Warning Symbols

After a Volvo symbols update, our EV, Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Battery Charge and Warning Symbols page now holds 14 images! And it is hardly the most prolific page! This is primarily because the automotive industry lacks discipline — or someone to apply that discipline — and continues the absurdity that is automotive dashboard symbols, telltales and indicators. Our pages now hold well over 1,000 distinct versions!

Hybrid battery holding chargeHybrid battery chargingThe Volvo update added two black and white versions (right), bringing the total to six of the 14. We certainly feel obligated to include them, as a driver needs to know that they are looking at exactly what they see on their instrument panel in order to feel confident about the information being given to them.

And note that the second symbol with the padlock is said to be an indicator that the hybrid battery is holding its charge! Isn’t that what its supposed to do??

Despite calls for uniformity and promises of such, auto manufacturers continue to forge their own paths when designing indicators. The addition of information displays on instrument panels has prompted the new assortment of black and white entries. Fortunately, this usually — but not always — include a text message explaining what the indicator is trying to tell the driver.

We’re pretty comfortable saying that oftentimes these messages are less than helpful.

You can see our EV, Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Battery Charge and Warning Symbols page here.

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Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2024/08/battery-charge-and-warning-symbols-count-on-our-page-now-at-14/

Hybrid Vehicle Operation Mode Dashboard Indicators

EV Mode Indicators

EV mode indicatorHybrid mode standbyThis and the images that follow below are Hybrid EV Mode Indicator symbols. They are related to the operational state of a hybrid vehicle. The first two indicate that the EV Mode is switched on and operating when in green, but is unavailable when shown in gray scale. Availability depends on factors such as the state of the battery’s charge, outside temperature, vehicle speed, etc., depending on manufacturer.

  • Before moving on, is one of these truly your symbol??
  • If not, you can return to our main Picture Symbols page and scan again!

EV mode unavailable indicatorThe same basic image as above with a line drawn through it indicates that EV mode is not available, again because the proper conditions are not met. It may also mean that a destination may have been chosen in navigation that exceeds the hybrid battery range.

eDrive indicatorThe text only symbol, eDRIVE, is found in hybrid systems that switch between using the internal combustion engine, the high voltage battery, or a combination of both automatically when conditions warrant. It will be displayed when the vehicle is under battery power alone.

eBoost indicatorThis text only symbol, eBoost, will be displayed when a hybrid vehicle is under extreme acceleration, such as in passing situations. It indicates that the high voltage battery is in full use to support or Boost the acceleration.

Combustion engine operation indicatorThis symbol, also in black and white features a drawing of an internal combustion (IC) engine with an embedded circular arrow. It indicates that the hybrid vehicle is operating on the IC engine alone.

Battery hold indicatorThis image indicates that use of the high voltage battery is on hold. The vehicle will operate using the IC engine predominantly in order to maintain the charge level in the high voltage battery. It too is in black and white.

Automatic hybrid operationAutomatic hybrid operation indicatorThese two are related as they both indicate that hybrid operation is in automatic mode. The second adds a slightly misshapen triangle underneath which indicates that the navigation system is active and that navigation data is being taken into consideration.

Auto charge modeCharge modeEV modeThis set of indicators come from Honda Motors Corp. found in their Hybrid vehicles: Auto Mode, Charge Mode, and EV mode. In Auto Mode, the vehicle selects which propulsion source is most appropriate, the electric motor, the gasoline engine, or a combination of the two and automatically switches to it. In Charge Mode, the engine starts and the High Voltage battery charges. In EV mode, the vehicle is propelled exclusively by the electric motor, so long as the battery has sufficient charge. And to the extent of battery charge, these modes can be chosen at will by the driver.

Battery assist 1Battery assist 2Battery assist 3These final three images are associated with what is termed a Mild Hybrid System, which uses a smaller, 48-volt battery to assist the driveline. The first image is displayed when the battery is supplying power. The second indicates that the battery is supporting high acceleration. The third image indicates that power from the mild hybrid system is unavailable.

The images are truly meaningless without explanatory text. A knobby outside circle with another circle inside? And what do the two lines top right and the three bent ones lower left mean? The last one is essentially a cross out and is the only one of any use — if you already know the meaning of the first two!

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Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2021/09/hybrid-vehicle-operation-mode-indicators/

Hybrid Operation Indicator

Hybrid Operation

This is a Hybrid Operation Indicator symbol. It says that a hybrid vehicle is being powered by both the gasoline and the electric motors, rather than the electric motor alone (see Electric Vehicle (EV) Mode).

  • Before continuing, is this truly your symbol?? If yes, continue on below.
  • Otherwise you can return to our main Picture Symbols page and scan again!

Its appearance is that of the outline of a car with the letters HV inside.

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Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2019/06/hybrid-operation-indicator/

Lincoln Videos: Handling Dead Key Fob Batteries

How to Open, Start and Replace Fob Batteries in Lincoln Vehicles

We now have ten videos offering help to Lincoln drivers who’s key fobs or remote controls have gone dead

There is some crossover to some Ford models, but they have their own page here!

Just added a video covering all Lincoln models.

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Here is an update for MKX drivers.

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Here’s a 2017 Lincoln MKZ — watch for the quirks!

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This video stars the updated (2017) Lincoln Continental.

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This video is for Ford Mustang, Fusion and Edge, including the hidden key hole, but also covers 2014 and newer Lincoln MKZ and MKZ Hybrid.

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This video will help with Lincoln Navigator as well as the Ford Taurus, Flex and Expedition.

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Video help for the Lincoln MKT and 2013 MKZ Hybrid as well as the Ford Explorer, Edge and Fusion.

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A video exclusive to the Lincoln MKC.

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A video of us replacing the batteries in an early style Ford or Lincoln dead key fob or remote control, updated.

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And another video of us replacing the battery in a different Ford/Lincoln key fob or remote control.

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This one has us replacing the battery in the newest Ford and Lincoln key fob.

Models covered include the Aviator, Corsair, MKC, MKX, MKT, Nautilus, Hybrid, Navigator, MKZ, and Continental.

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Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2018/09/lincoln-video-help-with-dead-key-fob-batteries/

Ford Videos: Handling Dead Key Fob Batteries

How to Open, Start and Replace Fob Batteries in Ford Vehicles

We now have twenty videos offering help to Ford drivers who’s key fobs or remote controls have gone dead.

There is some crossover with Lincoln models, but they have their own page here!

This video updates (in 2021) keyless start Ford SUVs with a dead key fob battery — all of them…

This video updates keyless start Ford trucks with a dead key fob battery for 2021.

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This video compilation covers all push button start Ford sedans with dead key fob batteries. The video will get you in and started.

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This one covers the new Ford Ranger model. We’ll get you in and started.

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This one covers center console shift F-150 pick-ups.

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This latest video covers the EcoSport.

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This video is updated for Ford Explorer drivers exclusively.

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The Ford Expedition features a new entry and start back up method for the 2018 model year.

 

This video updates the Ford Mustang exclusively.

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An update for Ford Fusion owners, post 2017 models.

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This one updates a previous video for Ford F-series Pick-up Owners.

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This video for Ford Mustang, Fusion and Edge, including the hidden key hole. It also covers 2014 and newer Lincoln MKZ and MKZ Hybrid.

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This video updates the Ford Fusion Hybrid for 2017. A new key and back up location.

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This one is exclusive to the Ford Edge.

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This video will help with Ford Taurus, Flex and Expedition and Lincoln Navigator.

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Video help for the Ford Explorer, Edge and Fusion and Lincoln MKT and 2013 MKZ Hybrid.

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This updated video covers the Ford Flex and Expedition.

 

A video of us replacing the batteries in a dead key fob or remote control, updated.

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And another video of us replacing the battery in a different Ford key fob or remote control.

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This one has us replacing the battery in the newest Ford and Lincoln key fob.

Models covered include the Ranger, Explorer, Expedition, Taurus, Fiesta, GT, F-150, C-Max, F-250, Focus, EcoSport, Mustang, F-series, Fusion, Edge, Flex,  and Hybrid.

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Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

 

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2016/05/ford-and-lincoln-video-help-with-dead-key-fobs/

Recuperative or Regenerative Brake System Indicators

Regenerative Braking

Regenerative Braking IndicatorThese are the Recuperative or Regenerative Brake System (RBS) Indicator symbols. If this symbol is illuminated on your instrument panel, the RBS is malfunctioning. This type of system is found in Hybrid and electric vehicles and uses the function of slowing down to generate electricity for the main high voltage battery.

  • Before continuing, are you sure this is your symbol?? If yes, then read on below.
  • Otherwise, you can return to our main Text Symbols page and scan again!

Regeneration iconRegeneration indicatorThe two additional version to the left are Regenerative Braking Icon Indicator symbols. they appear as a household battery with arrows circling it or circling inside it. The word ‘Regen’ appears below in one. A horizontal charge bar may appear as well. The symbol remains in gray scale until it is active, when the battery and arrows appear green.

These icons will also appear in gray scale when regenerative power is limited because the high voltage battery is near full charge or is cold.

Max regenerationMax regenerationThese also appear as household batteries, but as Max Regeneration indicators, they are meant to indicate that maximum regeneration capability has been engaged and operating. They will be accompanied by the following instrument cluster messages: Max Regeneration On when the feature is turned on, Max Regeneration Off when the feature is turned off, and Max Regeneration Unavailable when the feature is requested, disabled.

The indicator light will flash for five seconds. It appears in green on the instrument panel and in white in the message center.

Regenerative brake indicatorRegenerative brake indicator blueThese indicators come from another manufacturer, Kia, which uses arrows and the colors blue and white.  The number of arrows, 1, 2 or 3, indicates how much regeneration has been set: 1 is lowest, and we’ve chosen to show 3. In white, regeneration is not taking place. In blue, regeneration is occurring. The arrows appear in what looks like a battery box.

Regeneration boostThis is a Regeneration Boost Indicator symbol. It is seen when the driver chooses to increase the regeneration braking force. The result is that the vehicle will slow more quickly when the accelerator pedal is released. It appears as a foot on a pedal with an up and down arrow.

Deceleration stage indicatorSimilarly, Honda Motors Corp. offers the option the increase or decrease the rate of regeneration using a paddle on the steering wheel stalk. The result is the symbol to the left, a Deceleration Paddle Selector Indicator. Using the deceleration paddle selector, the driver can you sequentially shift through six stages of deceleration. The more larger V shapes are seen, the more deceleration is chosen. The M indicates that the choice has been locked in, suggesting the letter should be an L!

In the vast majority of electric and hybrid vehicles, the actual brake system is not involved. However, recuperative braking slows the vehicle and a malfunction of the system will require more use the vehicle’s brakes to come to a stop.

In vehicles where the brake system is involved,  braking performance may be affected and pedal travel may be lengthened. Any loss of brake performance presents an accident risk. Have your dealer or qualified repair shop address this as soon as possible.

Related Symbols

Brake force dist indicatorElectronically Controlled Brake WarningThe symbols to the right are also used as Regenerative Brake System Indicators. Click here to learn more.

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Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2015/12/recuperative-brake-system-indicator/