How Long Do Hybrid Car Batteries Last?

If you plan on making a hybrid your next Long Beach vehicle, you’ve probably been researching the many benefits these models can offer. One of the most pressing topics for many Cerritos buyers is their hybrid car battery life. But how long do hybrid car batteries last? In the following guide, Lexus of Cerritos will explore how long hybrid batteries last and some signs to replace your battery. Learn more below and contact our team with any questions you might have.

Expected Hybrid Car Battery LifeSpan

The good news is that American hybrid manufacturers are legally required to provide a warranty on high-voltage hybrid battery packs for at least eight years or up to 100,000 miles. Lexus offers eight and ten-year warranties that cover between 100,000 and 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. In addition, auto manufacturers in the U.S. are legally obliged to transfer the balance of any hybrid battery warranty to a new owner. Still, occasionally high-voltage battery packs on hybrid cars can fail. Discover what you can do to extend your hybrid car battery life on Torrance roads and beyond.

Causes of Hybrid Car Battery Life Reduction or Failure

There are many reasons why a hybrid car’s battery life might not be as long as expected. Individual cells or modules can fail in the battery, and the most common reasons are:

• Poor electrical connections between cells or battery modules
• Auto manufacturing defects in battery cells
• Extreme high or low battery temperatures 
• Manufacturing differences between cells
• Mechanical damage to the battery during routine maintenance or service
• Improper serving procedures, which is why you should have your hybrid vehicle serviced by the certified Lexus service technicians on the Lexus of Cerritos service team

How to Protect Your Hybrid Vehicle’s Battery Pack

Lexus of Cerritos does not recommend that you work on your hybrid battery pack because they can be hazardous. Still, there is one significant thing you can do to protect your hybrid vehicle battery life that doesn’t include working on it yourself.

Don’t Ignore Warning Lights

Your hybrid vehicle likely has a battery monitoring system with trouble codes and warning indicators that will show on your dashboard if it detects any issues, defects, malfunctions, or failures in the battery pack and its related systems. Here are some issues to look out for:

• Abnormal Battery Temperatures: Abnormal temperatures are likely caused by problems with the dedicated computer-controlled battery cooling system.
• Imbalances Between Battery Cells or Battery Modules: The failure of just one battery cell will likely degrade the performance of the entire battery pack, so get this checked out sooner rather than later.
• Abnormally High or Low Charging Rates: Multiple factors, including ambient temperatures, can affect how quickly or slowly your battery charges. You may also find that your hybrid battery charges more slowly if you stay in your vehicle and place other loads on your battery, such as for running cabin air conditioning/heating, lights, and radio.

If a Hybrid Battery Dies, Can You Still Drive the Car?

Many Cerritos customers ask if they can still drive their car if the hybrid battery dies. Fortunately, most hybrids have two batteries: a hybrid battery and a much smaller battery to operate the electronics in your vehicle. If the smaller battery dies, it’s not a problem. You can still drive it around Cerritos. However, if the main hybrid car battery is dead, do not attempt to drive the vehicle and make a service appointment ASAP.

Explore the Latest Hybrid Vehicles With Lexus of Cerritos

Now that you’ve learned more about your hybrid car battery life, it’s time to explore the newest models with our dealership near Long Beach. Over the years, Lexus of Cerritos has been helping buyers find the most fuel-efficient options for their daily needs. Start the process by getting pre-approved with our online financial application. You can also personalize your selection with one of our genuine Lexus accessories. Discover your next hybrid around Cerritos at Lexus of Cerritos.