How Long Do Hybrid Car Batteries Last?

So, how long do hybrid batteries last? Standard parallel Ni-Cad batteries, for instance, are hardy yet uncomplicated, easily capable of operating under normal use for over 175,000 miles. Ni-Cad hybrid batteries, however, are much more susceptible to break down when used in extreme environments, particularly when temperatures fall into the negatives. (If you’re in San Antonio, you don’t have as much to worry about, luckily.)

How Long Does a Hybrid Battery Last? 

So, how long do hybrid batteries last? Standard parallel Ni-Cad batteries, for instance, are hardy yet uncomplicated, easily capable of operating under normal use for over 175,000 miles. Ni-Cad hybrid batteries, however, are much more susceptible to break down when used in extreme environments, particularly when temperatures fall into the negatives. (If you’re in San Antonio, you don’t have as much to worry about, luckily.)

Plug-ins and most new hybrid cars typically utilize lithium-ion batteries, which don’t suffer from the same downsides as Ni-Cad counterparts. Lithium-based hybrid batteries keep their cycle counts—the number of times the battery has been drained to 0% and recharged to full—in check by limiting the battery usage to low-speed driving. They offer a higher energy density, which attributes to its natural robustness in the cold, heat, and under heavy load. Most modern lithium-ion batteries, including the ones inside the Ford Focus Electric, have liquid-cooling and dedicated heating systems to keep the pack running at an optimal temperature.

Although the replacement of lithium-ion car batteries is more expensive, new ones can usually run for more than 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Older hybrid batteries may kick the can around 150,000 miles, though it’s also dependent on the age and model.

Some “series hybrids” are also fitted with more unique batteries similar to those found in electric vehicles. Essentially EV batteries, they remain efficient by limiting the use of a gas motor, resulting in a longer lifespan on par with that of a Li-Ion battery.

How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Hybrid Battery?

How much will you have to spend when it comes time to replace your hybrid battery? Again, this varies greatly by make and model, availability, determined issue, and battery type.

• If your hybrid battery is acting up yet remains relatively new, it may just need to be taken apart and cleaned. You’ll need to visit a dedicated EV repair shop for assistance, or simply ask your car dealer for advice.
• Some batteries simply can’t be repaired, meaning a full replacement of either the cells or the entire pack is in order.
• New lithium-ion batteries can run anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 or higher, excluding the cost of labor. 
• Ni-Cad batteries are slightly cheaper, though not by much. You can also source a used hybrid car battery from vehicles that have been in crashes, which would be considerably cheaper. 

Any way you put it, expect to shell out a good amount of money to replace your hybrid vehicle battery once it’s run its course. Fortunately, your hybrid battery lifespan is generally quite robust, so this should certainly not be a frequent occurrence. 

Proper Hybrid Car Maintenance is Key

As is the case with all vehicles, performing routine maintenance on your hybrid car is the easiest way to ensure it lasts well into its teenage years. Maintaining hybrids and EVs requires a certain set of skills and tools, so it’s also important to leave it in the hands of a qualified EV service technician.

If you need assistance with your hybrid battery or service for your Ford Maverick, Escape Hybrid, or Explorer Hybrid, give the experts at San Antonio’s Northside Ford a call at (210) 525-9800. Our Ford service center can either point you toward a certified hybrid technician or perform the repairs in-house at our San Antonio shop. Just schedule an appointment and we’ll get to work! You can also learn more about proper vehicle maintenance in the meantime.