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Battery replacement?

Discussion in 'Newbie Forum' started by DST CLAIRE, Apr 2, 2013.

  1. DST CLAIRE

    DST CLAIRE Junior Member

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    I purchased a 2007 Prius December 2011 at 42,000 miles. I am now at about 70,000. I have had two occasions, including this morning, where my car will not start. No response when I click remotely or hit the smart button manually. Wonder if it was my doing. Yesterday, I started the car up to take a cd out, and just shut it off without hitting park. I am going to call someone to come jump the car, after I figure out how to get into the hatch back. Could this have been the cause? Very concerned with taking it to a dealership locally. I really do not trust them. Walked in to get a steering wheel recall fixed and walked out $600.00 less in my bank account. How much does it cost to replace a battery, and can I do this myself? Thanks much for any responses.
     
    #1 DST CLAIRE, Apr 2, 2013
  2. DeadPhish

    DeadPhish Senior Member

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    #2 DeadPhish, Apr 2, 2013
  3. SteveLee

    SteveLee Active Member

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    Probably has the original 12V battery and it's time to replace it. They typically last 4-5 years. There are alternatives to the dealer charging you $250-300. Yes, this is a DIY job. You can also jump from under the hood, the fuse box on the driver side has a positive jump connection. The strut bolt just above it is used for the negative. Know what you are doing before doing it. Do not reverse connect! That could result in 4 figure repair cost. Check out your owner's manual.

    Many on here get the Optima yellow top from local auto parts stores. Still others are finding much less expensive and some believe better quality options. You might want to check out this thread. Fitting mobility 12volt AGM battery. | PriusChat
     
    #3 SteveLee, Apr 2, 2013
    DST CLAIRE likes this.
  4. F8L

    F8L Protecting Habitat & AG Lands

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    #4 F8L, Apr 2, 2013
  5. DST CLAIRE

    DST CLAIRE Junior Member

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    Thank you. I was just quoted $250.00 at he Toyota dealership. Thanks, I just found the jump terminal! I am not a mechanic by any means, but can I change it without special tools. I heard the Optima yellow had not been as good lately.
     
    #5 DST CLAIRE, Apr 2, 2013
  6. SteveLee

    SteveLee Active Member

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    The link and video that F8L provided and you are great, you will do fine. It's not complicated and special tools are not needed.

    The Optima has had recent reports of being weak at purchase. Some say it is from being made in Mexico and others that they sit on the shelf too long and discharge. At the least these should be charged at the store and read a full charge before leaving, around 13 volts. The OEM should also read a full charge. The alternatives addressed in the thread link I provided are worth considering too.
     
    #6 SteveLee, Apr 2, 2013
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  7. DST CLAIRE

    DST CLAIRE Junior Member

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    THANK YOU!
     
    #7 DST CLAIRE, Apr 2, 2013
  8. richard schumacher

    richard schumacher shortbus driver

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    Sounds like you're all set to replace the battery.

    During the steering recall work, what did the dealer find that cost you $600?
     
    #8 richard schumacher, Apr 14, 2013
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