Hyundai has consistently been recognized for providing value and peace of mind to its customers. One notable way they achieve this is through their Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance (HCM) program. For those considering or already owning an electric crossover from Hyundai, understanding what this program entails is crucial. Let’s delve into the details of Hyundai’s complimentary maintenance, specifically with the electric crossover owner in mind.
Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance: The Basics
The Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance program is designed to cover essential maintenance services for new Hyundai vehicles. This program aims to lower the cost of ownership during the initial years, providing services at no cost to the owner. Typically, this includes services aligned with the normal factory-scheduled maintenance intervals for a certain period or mileage, whichever comes first.
Key features of the Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance program include:
- Coverage Period: Generally, the program covers services for 3 years or 36,000 miles.
- Services Included: The core services under HCM are Hyundai-approved oil and oil filter changes and tire rotations. It’s important to note that, explicitly stated by Hyundai, electric vehicles (EVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles are excluded from the oil and oil filter change portion of the program.
- Eligibility: The program is valid for new Hyundai models (specifically for model years 2020-2025 as per the original program terms) purchased or leased on or after February 1, 2020.
HCM Terms and Conditions: What You Need to Know
To fully understand the benefits and limitations of Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance for your electric crossover, consider these key terms:
- Exclusions for EVs: It’s critical to reiterate that the standard HCM explicitly excludes oil and oil filter changes for electric vehicles. This is logical as electric vehicles do not require engine oil like traditional internal combustion engine cars.
- Applicable Services for Electric Crossovers: While oil changes are irrelevant for EVs, the HCM program still includes tire rotations and multi-point inspections. Tire rotation is a crucial maintenance task for any vehicle, including electric crossovers, to ensure even tire wear and prolong tire life. Multi-point inspections are beneficial as they cover various aspects of the vehicle’s condition, potentially identifying issues early on.
- Service Intervals: Maintenance must be performed at normal maintenance schedule intervals as outlined in the vehicle’s Owner’s Manual. Adhering to these intervals is important to keep the complimentary maintenance valid.
- Authorized Dealers: HCM services must be performed at authorized Hyundai servicing dealers. This ensures that trained technicians and genuine parts are used for your vehicle.
- Time and Mileage Limits: Each service must be obtained within 1,000 miles or 1 month of the recommended interval. Missing these windows does not void future services, but it’s essential to stay within the guidelines for each specific service.
- Non-transferable (Mostly): The complimentary maintenance is for the original owner and is not transferable to subsequent owners, except in cases of spousal transfer.
- What’s Not Covered: HCM is designed for basic maintenance. It does not cover normal wear and tear items like air filters, cabin filters, wiper blades, brake pads, or any maintenance required due to severe driving conditions. Additionally, services listed as “inspect” in the Owner’s Manual are not covered unless they are part of the included services (like multi-point inspections as a whole).
Maximizing Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance for Your Electric Crossover
For owners of Hyundai electric crossovers, the HCM program still offers valuable benefits. Focus on utilizing the included tire rotation and multi-point inspection services. Regular tire rotations are vital for EVs due to their instant torque and often heavier weight, which can impact tire wear. Multi-point inspections can help ensure all systems, including the electric powertrain components, are checked for optimal performance and potential issues.
While electric crossovers eliminate the need for oil changes, they have their unique maintenance needs. These can include battery health checks, coolant checks for battery thermal management systems, brake system inspections (often less wear on brakes in EVs due to regenerative braking), and software updates. It’s important to understand what maintenance your electric crossover requires beyond what’s covered in the standard HCM and plan accordingly.
Conclusion
Hyundai Complimentary Maintenance offers a helpful program for new Hyundai owners, including those who choose electric crossovers. While the oil change aspect is not applicable to EVs, the tire rotations and multi-point inspections provide tangible value. By understanding the terms, conditions, and what services are included and excluded, electric crossover owners can effectively utilize the HCM program to maintain their vehicles during the initial ownership period and ensure their vehicle remains in top condition. Always refer to your specific vehicle’s Owner’s Manual and consult with your authorized Hyundai dealer for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding maintenance schedules and program details.
