So, you want to buy a hybrid vehicle? When the hybrid craze first swept the country, it was difficult bordering on impossible to find many quality used hybrid vehicles on dealer lots. In 2016, that’s no longer a problem, and you can find tons of used and pre-owned hybrid vehicles for sale.
Of course, not all used cars are created equally. In addition to all the normal research and due diligence that’s required whenever purchasing a used car, there’s one more important question to ask before buying a used hybrid — the state of the hybrid battery.
How Long Does a Hybrid Battery Lifespan Last?
So how long does a typical hybrid battery last? Unfortunately, that number can vary widely. Fortunately, the overwhelming majority of electric batteries for hybrids come with an eight year/100,000 mile warranty, and some states require even more generous warranties for hybrid drivers.
Even so, there’s no telling how long a used hybrid battery will last. Some drivers have to buy a replacement battery after just six years, while others coast along for more than a decade. For instance, the Honda Civic hybrid battery life falls about within the normal range of six to 10 years. So if you’re looking at a used hybrid from 2004, it’s possible that Honda Civic hybrid battery life is fast running out.
Usually, a new hybrid battery replacement will cost anywhere from $2,500 to $4,000. So if your used hybrid battery fails a year after purchase, then your used car will suddenly cost a lot more than you bargained for. That doesn’t mean you should steer clear of buying used hybrids, only that you need to bargain better…
Do Your Homework: Hybrid Car Battery Replacement
If you’re interested in buying a used hybrid, it’s absolutely crucial that you ask about the state of the battery. Ask questions like, is the battery still under warranty, and can the warranty be transferred? How old is the battery? Is this the original battery, a refurbished battery, or a hybrid battery replacement?
If possible, you can even try to have the cost of a replacement battery deducted from the price. Work on your negotiating skills and see if the owner can help pay for the cost of a new Honda hybrid battery, and if not, try and get some extra money knocked off the sale price.
In any case, never forget to ask about the hybrid battery when looking for used hybrids.
