The Toyota RAV4 is an impressive combination of power and fuel efficiency. If you’re a proud owner of one, you probably have a lingering thought about the RAV4 hybrid battery cost. Replacement batteries are always a sizable investment, but they are necessary to ensure your car is running in optimal condition.
In this article, we will talk briefly about RAV4 Hybrid battery replacement costs, symptoms of a failing RAV4 battery, and more.
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How Much Does a RAV4 Hybrid Battery Cost?
Nickel metal hydride batteries equipped in Toyota RAV4 are configured to get through a decade of ownership. Unfortunately, there are numerous factors that can cause batteries to age prematurely, and most car owners are oblivious to them.
Replacements for the RAV4 hybrid battery cost anywhere between $3,500 and $5,000, depending on whether you purchase a brand new, slightly used, or refurbished item. Some second-hand batteries are biddable for around $1,000 in online markets, but it’s wise to invest in a brand new replacement battery to ensure you get long-lasting reliable performance.
But before you pay that hefty amount, you will want to look at your warranty. Toyota has a high mileage warranty of 100,000 miles.
Is the RAV4 Hybrid Battery Lithium or Nickel?
If you are considering getting a Toyota RAV4, you may notice that there are models using lithium-ion batteries while the rest are having nickel metal hydride batteries. You may start wondering which battery type is better. In this section, we shall discuss each battery option’s pros and cons, so you will know which one you should go with.
Older RAV4 Models Use Nickel Metal Hydride Batteries
Ni-MH batteries have nickel on one pole while the opposite pole consists of titanium and other metals. This battery type has been around since the first-generation Prius, which is Toyota’s first hybrid vehicle.
Ni-MH batteries have a great track record in terms of reliability and ease of maintenance. These batteries do well in both cold and hot weather conditions. While they are not immune to extremely hot weather, they are much more resilient than lithium-ion batteries. These standard batteries rarely had issues, and they are known to last about 200,000 to 300,000 miles within 10 to 15 years, or even more.
However, it isn’t all rainbows and butterflies with Ni-MH batteries. One disadvantage is that they are quite bulky and heavy — so heavy that Toyota had to use a tool to lift these batteries out. The biggest drawback, however, is the self-discharge, which makes storing these batteries difficult as they would get critically low when they are unused for a while.
Compared to lithium-ion batteries, they have less power per weight and slower charge and discharge rates. Another problem with Ni-MH batteries is that they could potentially develop a memory effect. If you keep charging your battery near full charge, then eventually, it may view a half-charge as empty.
Lithium-Ion batteries are the Future
Li-ion batteries are the exact opposite of nickel metal hydride. In terms of weight and size, they are much lighter and smaller, so they don’t rob passenger space. These compact batteries do not self-discharge, which means they are going to behave better when you need to store yours for a while.
Compared to nickel metal hydride batteries, they charge and discharge much more rapidly. Therefore, Li-ion batteries make braking better and deliver gratifyingly immediate power. However, Li-ion batteries grow highly unstable when the temperature starts rising, so you need to pay attention to the cooling system and make sure the battery filter is clear and clean.
Since Li-ion batteries just came out, no one knows how they compare to the longevity of Ni-MH batteries because they haven’t been in service nearly as long. Lithium batteries also cost a lot more than nickel metal hydride.
How Long Do Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Batteries Last?
RAV4 hybrid batteries are actually designed to last the life of the vehicle. Many automotive technicians can attest to seeing hybrid cars lasting as much as 300,000 miles on the same battery. However, the lifespan is variable depending on a person’s driving habits, weather conditions, and more.
The majority of Toyota RAV4 owners have vouched anywhere between a three- to five-year lifespan, but then again, that fluctuates massively depending on how well you maintain your vehicle. That said, it is crucial to have your battery examined regularly to avoid premature battery failure.
When the battery is not running at near-perfect levels, your RAV4 Hybrid compensates for the loss of energy from the battery by putting pressure on the alternator or starter to enhance power, and this leads to your engine running outside of ideal conditions. As a result, it will cost you more capital to fix.
What Are Signs Your Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Battery Needs Replacement?
A dead battery is without a doubt the most obvious sign that it needs to be replaced, but before it reaches that point, there will be telltale signs.
The following are the most tremendously common symptoms that your RAV4 battery is failing:
- Starting Problems — Your car is getting harder to start, especially during cold mornings. Aside from the delayed engine crank, there are loud, rapid clicking noises whenever you turn the ignition key.
- Fluid Leaks or Corrosion — The battery cables and connectors display signs of heavy corrosion.
- Dimming headlights
The most prevalent reason batteries can wear on anything from cell phones to vehicles is being idle for too long. When you want to enjoy a long vacation abroad, it would be wise to let a family member or friend drive your car once in a while while you’re away.
RAV4 Hybrid Battery Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Toyota offers an impressive warranty program that matches those provided by its rivals. In most cases, you will receive a 10-year or 150,000-mile Enhanced Hybrid Battery Warranty when you purchase a new Toyota RAV4.
Conclusion
Replacements for a Toyota RAV4 hybrid battery cost an arm and a leg. While batteries are designed to last a decade or so, they often succumb to negligence and there are so many pitfalls that impact battery health. Even the most minor of issues can kill your battery if you overlook them.
So, perform the required maintenance, change the fluids as recommended, and get your car checked yearly. Your RAV4 hybrid battery should last for as long as you take good care of it.