As Winter creeps in, it’s time to learn more about how your battery may be affected by cold weather and what you can do to avoid costly repairs. From your hybrid’s gas mileage, to even a dead hybrid battery, we’ll explain how to combat the cold weather’s unforgiving effects on your battery.
How Cold Weather Affects Your Hybrid Battery
If you have a newer battery, chances are you’re less likely to experience issues with your hybrid battery in cold weather. However, if you have a battery that is older than 5 years, you could experience issues with the performance of your hybrid vehicle. Some signs to look out for during the colder months are:
- Decreased Fuel Economy
- Vehicle Using Electric-Mode Less
- Dead Battery (in older batteries)
Although the concerns are similar to a standard combustion vehicle’s battery, there are a few exceptions when “winterizing” your hybrid vehicle. While fuel economy is the biggest concern for your hybrid battery in cold weather, don’t forget to watch for any signs your hybrid is running differently than in regular temperatures.
Preparing Your Hybrid For Winter
If you live in a state that expects cold temperatures from November to March, you’ll want to focus on steps to winterize your hybrid vehicle. Ensuring a fine-tuned hybrid is key in the longevity of a healthy hybrid.
- Check Tire Pressure. Tire pressure affects your fuel economy more than you’d expect, so it’s important to keep a close eye on it, especially before the weather turns.
- Get a Tune Up. Having your fluids properly maintained and at the right levels is also important. Be sure to get regular oil changes, especially during cold weather.
- Warm It Up. This goes for standard combustion engine vehicles as well. Warming your vehicle up before driving it will help its performance during the cold months. It’ll also be more comfortable of a drive for your morning commutes.
For more answers on your hybrid battery or hybrid vehicle in general, be sure to follow our blog where we discuss common issues and how to protect your hybrid. If you are in need of service, The Hybrid Geek offers specialized services for Honda, Lexus, and Toyota hybrid vehicles. Call us for your Free Consultation or State of Health Check at (919) 996-0626 or fill out our contact form here.
