| 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2012 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First started repairing hybrid battery. Basically replacing dead and weak cells. Mixed success. | Started clearing error code but had to send it down to P North at a cost of $200 each. | Obtained our own scanner and was now able to clear all codes and fixing faults with MAF and Oxygen sensors | Just replacing cells no longer worked. Invented the Power Jockey to augment the weak hybrid battery | Developed cut and weld, equalising and self discharge detection technique. |
Mechanical Repairs
As the penetration on hybrid vehicles into the automotive market is still low, there are not many service centres that are competent in repairing hybrid vehicles. Mechanical repairs by themselves are not in itself complicated but the diagnosis into what is actually faulty is.
The hybrid vehicle is mechanically very reliable because most of the vulnerable parts like cam belts, alternators, distributors, turbos, complicated transmissions have been designed out of the system. In the Toyota Prius other than serviceable parts such as spark plugs, MAF sensors the engine and transmission hardly breaks down.
Our experiences with the Gen 1 and Gen 2 Prius bears this out. Since 2008 we have only replaced 1 transmission system. We have not seen failure with the electric motors and the inverter/converter.
Hybrid Battery Repairs
Manufacturers guarantee their battery packs for the life of the car, which is typically between 100,000 to 150,000 kilometers or 7 – 9 years. They expect that either the vehicle will be scrapped or battery pack replaced by the end of this period. This is fine if the battery only cost a few hundred dollars to replace but at several thousand of dollars it is like asking a vehicle owner to replace his engine every 7 years.
High battery replacement can cost leads to a high rate of depreciation, poor trade in values and a non existent second hand market for hybrid vehicles.
The battery clinic pioneered many techniques in the repairing of the hybrid battery pack and this generally cost a few hundred dollars. We also invented and patented the Power Jockey which effectively extends the length of time that the battery pack can be used before repair or reconditioning is required.
These two developments have restored the second hand value of used hybrids and have given many people the opportunity to experience the joy and benefits of driving a hybrid car.
It is understandable that the owner of a Gen 1 or Gen 2 Prius expects a battery repair will work and last straight away. To our customers we say “Have Faith” some batteries are easier than others and we have always been pushing the boundaries in making these batteries last. We can only promise that we will get every battery working satisfactorily and we honour our warranty.
Hybrid Vehicle Service
If you own a hybrid vehicle you must get it serviced by competent technicians. Most hybrid battery pack failures have their genesis in failure on the engine side which was in turn the result of poor or sub standard vehicle maintenance. In our experience with repairing hybrid batteries some vehicles come back again and again with battery failure to be repaired under warranty. In every case these few vehicles were found to have oxygen sensor failure.
Battery failure is inevitable because it is inherent in the chemical nature of this charge storage systems. Over time capacity will diminish. A good service maintenance schedule undertaken by knowledgeable technicians is necessary to ensure that the hybrid battery remain in top condition.
