Since its introduction in 1997, Toyota’s Prius model has been beloved for its value, fuel-efficiency, and role in helping the environment. The Prius (available at Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA) is one of the best-selling hybrid vehicles on the market. Because it relies more on an electric battery than gas, you might have questions about battery power. Peruzzi Toyota is here to break it down for you.
There are two kinds of Prius, the standard hybrid and the plug-in (PHEV) model aka the Prius Prime. The regular Toyota Prius is powered by a combination of gas and electricity charged through its regenerative braking. The plug-in model can store more energy in the battery, further reducing the need for gas. The question for both types of Prius is… how long does the battery last, and what impacts it?
Toyota states that the average battery life for a Prius is 100,000-150,000 miles or between 8 and 10 years. However, just like anything, the way you treat your vehicle will have an effect. If you’re in an accident, for example, the battery cell may become damaged.
A few things will indicate if your battery is heading south.
- Running rough. The hybrid battery transfers power to the wheels; if they “feel” awkward on the road, it could be a sign of a failing battery.
- Doesn’t hold a charge. Like any kind of battery, as your hybrid battery ages, you may find yourself needing to charge it up more frequently than before.
- Decreasing fuel-efficiency. The whole point of a hybrid is to reduce the need for gas. If you notice your fuel usage creeping back up, the battery may be responsible.
Cold weather can also impact your Prius battery, draining it a bit faster than in temperate weather. And letting your vehicle “sit” for too long doesn’t do it any favors, although a warm climate will allow the Prius battery to hold a charge for anywhere from 3-6 months. If temperatures are colder, halve that number.
If you determine that you need a new battery, expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000. That’s still a lot less than the battery required for high-end hybrids made by Porsche and Ferrari. Once again, Toyota delivers value for their customers.
Got more questions about the Toyota Prius or Prius Prime? Peruzzi Toyota is always here to answer them for you.
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