TROY, Mich. – To address the growing number of hybrid vehicles making their way into the aftermarket’s independent repair shops, the Bendix Training Team has developed a comprehensive program called the Hybrid Brake Service Class. 
According to J.D. Power & Associates, hybrid vehicles are expected to account for approximately 7 percent of the car market by 2015. And, though brake maintenance isn’t needed as often on hybrids due to regenerative braking, it’s critical that proper maintenance and repair procedures are followed.
The all-new Bendix Hybrid Brake Service Class is designed to give shops an advantage in the marketplace. It will cover basic hybrid operation, hydraulic system and ABS operation on the Gen 1 Civic, Prius Gen II and Ford Escape 2005-2007 models.
“This course is designed to address basic brake operation and repair on hybrids,” said Jim Kelley, director of sales, North America for Friction Materials LLC, “but will also cover the opportunities that will come with hybrid repair and help ensure shops are ready for this technology.”
According to Bendix, the seminar will give techs and repair shops the ability to:
• Work on vehicles with high-voltage battery packs using proper safety precautions;
• Understand how a hybrid vehicle operates;
• Know the base hydraulic, ABS and regenerative braking strategies used in a hybrid vehicle;
• Service and bleed the hybrid base brake system; and
• Have the proper diagnostic and service tools available.
The three-hour course – led by Chuck Kennedy, technical training manager and Bendix Answerman for Friction Materials LLC – has already been presented to a group of 236 technicians.
“Both the WD host and the techs who attended it gave us tons of great feedback,” said Kennedy. “This class is a great addition to our current roster and should be for years to come, especially as hybrids continue to grow in popularity.”
Distributors and shop customers interested in learning more should contact their Friction Materials sales representative or email [email protected].
