# Do I need a dealership mechanic for hybrid brakes?

**URL:** <https://community.cartalk.com/t/do-i-need-a-dealership-mechanic-for-hybrid-brakes/119063>\
**Category:** Maintenance/Repairs\
**Tags:** ford\
**Created:** [June 11, 2018, 7:06pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/do-i-need-a-dealership-mechanic-for-hybrid-brakes/119063 "2018-06-11T19:06:56Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 2\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![MarieHlavin](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/m/51bf81/32.png) [@MarieHlavin](https://community.cartalk.com/u/MarieHlavin)\
**Post date:** [June 11, 2018, 7:06pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/do-i-need-a-dealership-mechanic-for-hybrid-brakes/119063/1 "2018-06-11T19:06:56Z")

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Hey! Last year I bought a 2014 Ford C-Max. I LOVE this car for many reasons, but there seems to be a bit of a learning curve with the model when I take it for maintenance. I did find a good Sears Auto dude who does my oil changes, but it now needs new breaks (pads and possibly rotors). Since the hybrid battery relies on brake function to recharge, I am wondering if I should take it to the dealership for new brakes rather than a general “after market” mechanic. Suggestions?

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**Author:** ![Nevada\_545](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/cartalk/user_avatar/community.cartalk.com/nevada_545/32/41232_2.png) [@Nevada\_545](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Nevada_545)\
**Post date:** [June 17, 2018, 9:13am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/do-i-need-a-dealership-mechanic-for-hybrid-brakes/119063/2 "2018-06-17T09:13:50Z")

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> [@MarieHlavin](#):
>
> Since the hybrid battery relies on brake function to recharge, I am wondering if I should take it to the dealership for new brakes rather than a general “after market” mechanic. Suggestions?

The hybrid electric motor is used for regeneration when slowing, similar to engine braking. The friction brakes are the same as on a conventional vehicle, they are not connected to the hybrid system.