Imagine for a moment that the worst thing that could possibly happen to your hybrid vehicle does happen. The hybrid battery is dying, if not already dead. The car won’t start anymore. This scenario is actually more common than you might realize. In 2012, Honda was brought to court in the United States due to problematic batteries which were hurting fuel efficiency, and not lasting as long as advertised. However, even without extenuating circumstances, everlasting batteries don’t exist, and so you can expect that your hybrid vehicle battery pack will one day run out of juice. When that day comes, here is what you will need to know.
What exactly is the cost of batteries for hybrid cars?
Although most hybrid vehicle batteries come with an eight year or 100,000 mile warranty, some hybrid batteries last for as few as six years. If you must purchase a new battery outside of warranty, then it’s important to remember that the cost of batteries for hybrid cars varies by make and model, but on average a pack costs between $3,000 and $4,000. Fortunately, third-party automotive experts can sometimes offer more cost-effective, and more powerful, alternatives. You could try to think of this hybrid battery cost in a positive light. Many hybrid drivers save up to $3,400 in taxes in the U.S. due to tax incentives attached to purchasing a hybrid vehicle.
How do I know if I need hybrid battery repair?
Hybrid technology is easy to love, because the transition between fuel use and battery use is almost undetectable. However, if your car seems to announce that transition, has a chronically low battery life display, or simply won’t start, you may be in need of battery repair. The best way to determine whether your batter requires repair or replacement is to bring it into the dealership.
When should I get a hybrid battery replacement?
Considering the cost of batteries for hybrid cars, the only time that you should be replacing the battery is if a mechanic has confirmed that the existing battery is not holding a charge like it should, is operating inefficiently, or is dead, in which case you will be quite aware that there is a problem. There is no need to replace a battery that is functioning as intended.
More than two million hybrid vehicles were sold in 2012 in the United States, and not only have they have saved their owners on fuel, but they have made their mark as an environmentally responsible alternative to traditional vehicles. Hybrid car batteries are without a doubt a significant advancement in automotive technology, but they’re not without potential flaws. If you intend on keeping your hybrid car for a very long time, it’s important know what to expect, and to be prepared for battery pack repair, or replacement. Great references here.
