How Long Do Hybrid Car Batteries Last?

More and more drivers around Clear Lake and Houston are choosing vehicles that are more efficient and better for the environment. If you are not quite ready to go the electric vehicle route, hybrids are a great alternative. They are designed to maximize every drop of fuel without requiring you to adjust your driving habits. 

If you have been considering a hybrid vehicle, you may have questions regarding hybrid car battery life. How long do hybrid car batteries last? We explore the basics in the guide below. 

Hybrid Car Battery Life

Did you know that hybrid vehicle manufacturers in the United States are legally required to provide a warranty on high-voltage hybrid battery packs for at least eight years or up to 100,000 miles? This warranty must also be transferred to the new owner if the vehicle is sold during that time. Hybrid batteries are known for their exceptional longevity, but it is possible that they will fail due to unforeseen circumstances. There are ways you can help to extend your hybrid car battery life. 

Factors that Reduce Hybrid Car Battery Life 

There are a few factors that can cause your hybrid battery to wear down prematurely. Common culprits include: 

• 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

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

Another common question we receive from Pearland shoppers is, “If a hybrid battery dies, can you still drive the car?” The answer actually depends on which battery has failed. Most hybrid models are equipped with two different batteries. There’s the hybrid battery and a much smaller battery that is tasked with powering the electronics in your vehicle. If it’s the smaller battery that has failed, you can certainly still drive the vehicle. If the larger hybrid battery has failed, you will need to bring your vehicle in for service before hitting the roads of Webster and beyond. 

Contact Big Star Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat Clear Lake for More Information

How long do hybrid batteries last? With proper care, you can expect a healthy battery to last for many years to come. If you have additional questions about hybrid ownership, do not hesitate to reach out to the team at Big Star Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat Clear Lake for details.