With hybrid cars becoming more popular in Australia, many people are curious about how hybrid cars work, how long their batteries last, and how much it costs to replace them. Hybrid cars offer a great way to save on fuel, but they come with their own unique questions. One of the biggest concerns for hybrid car owners is the hybrid battery—how long does it last, and what happens when it needs replacing?
In this blog, we’ll dive into how hybrid cars work, how long a hybrid battery lasts, signs of a bad battery, the cost of replacement, and the importance of checking a car’s history before purchasing.
How Do Hybrid Cars Work?
Hybrid cars combine two power sources: an electric motor and a petrol engine. The electric motor powers the car when you are driving at slower speeds, while the petrol engine kicks in when more power is needed, like when driving on highways. This makes hybrids more fuel-efficient compared to traditional petrol cars because they don’t rely solely on petrol.
Additionally, hybrid cars use regenerative braking, which allows the car to capture energy when you brake and use it to recharge the battery. This means you don’t need to plug in the car to charge it like you would with an electric vehicle.
How Long Does a Hybrid Battery Last?
The lifespan of a hybrid battery depends on several factors, including the make and model of the car, how it’s driven, and the climate in which the car operates. On average, a hybrid battery lasts about 8 to 15 years or around 160,000 to 200,000 kilometres.
Hybrid car manufacturers generally offer warranties that last for 8 years or 160,000 kilometres, which should give you peace of mind. However, once the warranty period is over, the battery may start to degrade, and you’ll need to monitor it for any signs of failure.
Many hybrid owners in Australia report that their cars perform well beyond the warranty period, but if you live in a very hot or cold climate, the battery could wear out faster.
How Do You Know If a Hybrid Battery Is Going Bad?
Hybrid batteries don’t fail suddenly; instead, they gradually degrade over time. However, there are a few warning signs that can alert you that the battery might be on its last legs. Here are a few common symptoms:
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Decreased Fuel Efficiency: One of the first signs of a failing hybrid battery is a noticeable drop in fuel efficiency. If your hybrid vehicle is consuming more petrol than usual, it could indicate that the battery isn’t holding its charge as well as it should.
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Erratic Battery Charging: If the battery level drops quickly after charging or doesn’t seem to charge properly, this is a warning sign. Hybrid batteries are designed to hold a charge for a longer period, so quick drain-offs indicate a problem.
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Strange Noises: If you start hearing unusual noises, especially from the engine or battery compartment, it could mean that the hybrid system is malfunctioning.
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Warning Lights: Most hybrid cars will alert you with a warning light on the dashboard if the battery is going bad. If you see a battery warning light or check engine light, don’t ignore it—get the car checked by a professional.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Hybrid Battery?
In Australia, the cost of replacing a hybrid battery can vary significantly based on the car's make and model. On average, hybrid battery replacements can range from $2,000 to $6,000. For example, replacing the battery in a Toyota Prius might cost around $2,500 to $4,000, while a battery for a Honda Civic Hybrid might be on the higher end.
Although replacing a hybrid battery may seem expensive, it’s important to remember that the battery is built to last for many years. Plus, the fuel savings you get from driving a hybrid can help offset the cost of replacement in the long run.
Some hybrid car owners opt for reconditioned or second-hand batteries, which are usually cheaper than brand-new ones. However, these may not last as long and might not come with a warranty, so weigh your options carefully.
Check Car History Before Buying Any Car in Australia
Whether you’re buying a hybrid or a regular car, it’s always a good idea to check the car’s history before making any decisions. A car history check, often known as a REVS Check (currently changed to PPSR Check), will provide important information such as:
- If the car has been involved in any accidents
- If it has any outstanding finance
- If it’s been reported stolen
This step is crucial to ensure you’re buying a reliable car. You can perform a REVS Check in NSW or other parts of Australia to gather all the necessary information about a vehicle before purchasing.
Also, if you are planning to buy a car on finance, it’s important to understand the terms and conditions. You can read more about why buying a car on finance is important and how it can affect your financial situation.
Conclusion
Hybrid cars offer many benefits, especially when it comes to fuel efficiency and environmental impact. However, one of the main concerns for hybrid car owners is the longevity and cost of replacing the hybrid battery.
On average, a hybrid battery lasts 8 to 15 years, and if properly maintained, it can continue to serve you for a long time. If you start noticing any signs of battery failure, such as decreased fuel efficiency or erratic charging, it’s important to get it checked as soon as possible. The cost of replacing a hybrid battery in Australia can range from $2,000 to $6,000, but this cost is often outweighed by the long-term fuel savings.
Finally, don’t forget to check the car’s history before purchasing any vehicle, especially if it’s a hybrid. A car history check, and some conduct VIN check, will give you peace of mind and help ensure that you’re making a smart investment.
By taking these steps, you can enjoy the many benefits of owning a hybrid car in Australia without worrying about unexpected surprises down the road.