The role and lifespan of batteries differ between a hybrid car and a gasoline-engine vehicle. To avoid sudden battery problems, it is a good idea to have the correct knowledge about when to replace the battery in your hybrid vehicle. In this blog, we will explain the battery life of hybrid vehicles, how to determine when to replace them, and how to make them last longer.
Two types of batteries are installed in hybrid vehicles
Before moving forward to the replacement case of Batteries in Hybrid Cars, you should know the types of batteries in hybrid vehicles. Hybrid cars have two types of batteries. The first is the main drive battery. It is a high-voltage battery that drives the motor and starts the engine. It varies depending on the vehicle model but is usually installed under the vehicle, such as in the center console.
The second is the auxiliary battery. It is responsible for starting the hybrid system and supplying power to electrical equipment when the hybrid system is not running. Some models have it installed in the engine compartment, but many models have it installed in the trunk or under the rear seats, so it will be difficult to replace it yourself, like in an engine car.
1. When to replace the battery in a Hybrid Car
Of the two batteries in a hybrid car, the main drive battery generally does not need to be replaced. On the other hand, auxiliary batteries are the same 12V lead-acid batteries as gasoline engine vehicles, so they need to be replaced periodically. Because they do not have a role in starting the engine, which requires a large current discharge, the load on the battery is small and they last longer than gasoline engine vehicle batteries (which last 2-3 years), but they still reach the end of their life in 3-5 years.
If the battery dies, the hybrid system will not start and the car will not move even if the main drive battery has sufficient capacity. The auxiliary battery of a hybrid car should be replaced regularly.
If you are in a situation like this, you should contact a Hybrid Car Specialist in Dubai. And, I know the place in Dubai where you can go without hesitation, it is the only Hytec Auto Garage located in a prime location so you can get in ASAP.
2. Determine When to Replace the Battery in a Hybrid Car
If you can recognize the signs that your auxiliary battery is nearing the end of its life, you can determine when it needs to be replaced, but this is said to be difficult to determine in hybrid vehicles. For example, in engine vehicles, signs such as slow opening and closing of power windows are evident, but in hybrid vehicles, because the power is supplied by the main drive battery, in most cases the battery reaches the end of its life without the user noticing any warning signs.
If you don’t realize that your auxiliary battery is reaching its end of life and it dies, your smart key will no longer respond, and you will be unable to open the doors or trunk, or activate the hybrid system to start the car.
In many hybrid vehicles, the auxiliary battery is located inside the vehicle and is difficult to remove unless you are used to it. Also, since it is difficult to check it frequently, we recommend that you consider replacing it at a car dealer, repair shop, or battery store once every 3 to 5 years, which is the general lifespan.
3. Make your Hybrid Car Battery Last Longer
To extend the life of your hybrid vehicle’s auxiliary battery, try to drive it for at least an hour once every one or two weeks and charge it. If a battery is left discharged for an extended period of time, it will no longer perform as well as it did before, even when recharged. Sulfation can also cause a decrease in performance.
Sulfation is a phenomenon in which lead sulfate crystallizes on the surface of the electrodes. The crystallized lead sulfate reduces the reaction area between the electrodes and the electrolyte, making it difficult for the charge/discharge reaction to occur. If the battery is left undercharged, sulfation will progress, so it is important to regularly top up the charge and charge the battery while driving.
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Regular Inspections are Necessary
Some vehicles are equipped with an open auxiliary battery in the engine compartment. In this case, you can perform maintenance yourself, including checking the battery fluid level. In addition, check the battery case for deformation or damage, leakage, and loose or corroded terminals. If you have time, having the battery inspected internally by a battery dealer, such as with a tester or hydrometer, will help prevent sudden problems.
On the other hand, in many car models, the auxiliary battery is installed inside the vehicle and is a VRLA type (sealed and has no fluid plug for refilling), so there is no need to check the fluid level. Also, since it is located in a place that is difficult to remove, it is not easy to check it with a tester.
Considering that the lifespan of an auxiliary battery is 3 to 5 years, we recommend that you consider replacing it when you have your hybrid vehicle inspected to prevent the battery from suddenly dying.
Summary
Of the two batteries in a hybrid vehicle, the main drive battery generally does not need to be replaced, but the auxiliary battery has a lifespan of 3 to 5 years and does need to be replaced.
Unlike gasoline vehicles, hybrid vehicles do not show signs that the battery is nearing the end of its life, and it is said that it is difficult to determine its lifespan.
To prevent the battery from suddenly dying, have it inspected regularly at a repair shop, battery store, etc., and replace it early. It is also recommended that you consider replacing it when you have your car inspected. Call Hytec Auto Garage and experience the difference today.
