Hybrid cars have reigned in the automobile world by putting together fuel efficiency with eco-friendly technology. This innovation’s core is the hybrid battery, which powers the electric motor and works with the internal combustion engine. However, like every other component, hybrid batteries will also degrade over time. This leads a lot of hybrid vehicle owners to the question: is it possible to repair the battery or is a full replacement always necessary?
Well, the good news is in most cases, a hybrid battery could be repaired. Many have found battery reconditioning to be a very realistic and even cost-effective option instead of replacement. In this case, let us dig into hybrid battery repair details and how that works, discussing its various advantages etc.
Understanding the Process
Battery reconditioning is the process employed to return a hybrid battery to a near-original level of performance by targeting specific faults within the battery pack. Hybrid car batteries comprise multiple individual cells or modules. Over time, some of them tend to degrade or simply die, which will bring the capacity and efficiency of the whole battery down.
The reconditioning process aims to identify and resolve these issues through several steps:
Diagnosis
A professional mechanic will check the overall health of the battery by using state of the art equipment. This typically includes inspecting the voltage and capacity, and checking the underperforming or failed cells.
Cellular Repair/Replacement
It rejuvenates faulty cells, replacing them if needed. Deep cycling, which may involve complete discharging and recharging of the cells to bring back capacity, is also conducted. If some of those cells are beyond repair, they are replaced with new or refurbished ones.
Balancing and Reassembly
When the repair or replacement is done, the battery pack is reassembled, and cell balancing is performed to make sure all cells operate harmoniously. This helps in performance optimization and prevents future imbalance in the battery.
Testing
The reconditioned battery consequently undergoes a series of rigorous tests to make sure that its performance standards have been attained. Driving condition simulations are mostly done for the sake of ensuring reliability and efficiency.
When Should You Consider Hybrid Battery Repair?
Although every problem that arises with the hybrid battery does not indicate full replacement, in some specific scenarios, repair or reconditioning may be possible:
Isolated Cell Failures
Repairing or replacing a few underperforming cells in the battery pack allows the battery to work again and makes the replacement of the battery unnecessary.
Declining Capacity
Over time, hybrid batteries normally lose their ability to keep a charge. This is rather reversed through reconditioning, especially in structurally intact batteries.
Budget Constraints
The cost of a full replacement is not cheap. Reconditioning makes for a more affordable option, which will no doubt be luring for the economically conscious driver.
On the other hand, repair might be unsuitable for those batteries that have suffered extensive physical damage or have completely come to the end of their lifetime. In such cases, replacement would be much more advisable.
How long does a hybrid battery take to get fixed?
This depends on many variables, for example, how much damage was done or the type of battery. If the problem is light, like rebalancing or replacing a few cells, the process can be finished in a few hours. The repairs may take a day or two if the problem is big.
If your hybrid battery is in relatively good shape, then it might just be the simple reconditioning treatment that is needed to get it into top shape once more. On the other hand, batteries with generalized cell degradation or other major issues may take a bit more time and effort.
Benefits of Hybrid Battery Repair
Some of the benefits when opting for the repair or reconditioning of a hybrid battery include:
Cost Savings
Replacement of a hybrid battery can cost thousands of dollars, depending on the make and model of the car. Repairing or reconditioning the battery is often just a fraction of the cost, thus making it economical.
Impact on the Environment
Manufacturing batteries requires raw materials like lithium and nickel, obtained by mining, which can have important environmental impacts. Repairs to a hybrid battery simply reduce the demand for new batteries, therefore it ultimately saves raw materials and overall waste products. With more repurposed batteries being brought to life, fewer damaged ones end up in landfills, contributing to a sustainable future.
Longer Battery Life
Reconditioning will extend your hybrid battery’s life for up to several years, thus offering the maximum value for your invested money. It solves the problem early, saving you from expensive repairs or replacements that may come later on.
Better Performance
A reconditioned battery can regain much of its original capacity and efficiency, thereby improving the vehicle’s overall performance. It increases speed, smooths out the transition between electric motor and engine engagement, and gives better fuel economy.
The Dangers of DIY Repairs
While saving a few bucks by attempting a home repair of your hybrid battery may look quite intriguing, it is rather risky. The hybrid battery works at high voltage applications that can be highly dangerous if mishandled. Without the right tools or expertise, you could:
• cause further damage
• compromise your vehicle’s safety
• Risk severe injury and even deadly electrical shock
Because of this, such repairs are best left to qualified experts who have been trained in how to do them and possess just the right equipment for accomplishing the task.
Choosing a Professional Hybrid Battery Repair Service
What to look for when selecting a repair service?
Experience and Expertise
Make sure that the professional is trained in hybrid technology and has experience with your particular make and model.
Quality Assurance
A reputable repair shop will offer warranties on their work, giving you peace of mind about the longevity of the repair.
Diagnostic Tools
This demands the use of advanced diagnostic equipment to give proper identification of the problems in the battery and ensure fuller repair.
Customer Reviews
Search online for reviews or ask around to find a trusted service provider near your location.
Tips for Hybrid Car Battery Maintenance
The following are a few maintenance tips to increase the life of your hybrid battery and reduce the chances of repair:
Periodic Check-ups
Arrange for periodic inspections of your battery’s health with a qualified technician.
Extreme Temperature
Avoid extremely hot temperatures by always parking your vehicle in shaded or climate-controlled areas to avoid overheating.
Drive Regularly
Frequent use keeps the battery active and prevents it from losing capacity due to inactivity.
Watch out for Warning Signs
Pay attention to the warning lights on the dashboard or performance changes, including decreased fuel economy or taking longer to accelerate.
Conclusion
Hybrid battery repair is a practical, economical, and environmentally friendly alternative to replacement. By addressing specific issues within the battery pack, reconditioning will effectively restore performance and extend its life, saving you money.
However, considering the complexity of a hybrid battery, repairs are best left to the professionals. A well cared for hybrid battery will last for several years without problems. Whatever the problem in your hybrid vehicle, consult a reputed hybrid repair expert to see what works best for your needs.
For more information regarding the inner workings of Hybrid cars and their batteries, feel free to reach out to us at the Hybrid MOT Centre.
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