At Lexus of Valencia, we know southern California weather is only getting hotter. When the heat is doing its worst, protect your Lexus hybrid battery by following these steps. Doing so will prolong the life of your vehicle and its hybrid power system.
What Does Heat Do to My Battery?
Hybrids use both nickel-metal hydride and lithium-ion batteries. Summer heat takes its toll on both.
Conventional batteries suffer from evaporative wear as the heat slowly saps the battery’s water and electrolyte supplies. Lithium-ion and conventional batteries suffer from self-discharge in higher heat, degrading battery life and long-term battery health; both should be kept at temperatures below 78 degrees whenever possible.
How Can I Keep My Car Safe?
Most hybrid car batteries have built-in hardware to help manage temperature, but there are things you can do as a driver to lend a hand. Hybrid batteries are often placed under the backseat, so keeping the internal cabin temperature low is essential.
Air conditioning helps when the car is in motion, and leaving the window cracked open can improve airflow when parked. Where you park matters, too; garages are your safest bet since they shield the car from sunlight, but parking in the shade or buying a sunshade from our Lexus parts department is better than nothing.
If your car is a plug-in hybrid, charge during off-peak hours. Not only is this less expensive, but it also helps to prolong battery life versus charging during hotter daylight hours.
Get Lexus Hybrid Maintenance at Lexus of Valencia
If you suspect that the heat has damaged your hybrid battery or seek preventative maintenance, make an appointment with our Lexus service experts at Lexus of Valencia. Conversely, you can stop by to learn more about the advanced new hybrid technology powering the latest Lexus hybrids and take one for a test drive for yourself!
