Is it difficult to check hybrid battery health on your own?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting' started by Mamalucy, Oct 26, 2025 at 6:40 PM.

  1. Mamalucy

    Mamalucy Junior Member

    Joined:
    Jul 31, 2019
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    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    III
    Thanks for recent comments re bad water pump going out, messed up inverter. Got it fixed. Good independent mechanic $811.59.
    Now trying to figure out if it's difficult to check hybrid battery health to make decision about the car I've loved 16 years, or get newer Prius. Carmax will only offer $2500 for trade in. If the car is safe enough to drive around town, I'll just keep it & not drive far. But if hybrid or other major system is about to go, well then it's days are numbered. It's been a great car, but considering alternatives.
    So appreciate your feedback.
     
    #1 Mamalucy, Oct 26, 2025 at 6:40 PM
  2. PriusCamper

    PriusCamper Senior Member

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    Vehicle:
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    Two
    It's more about how much you want to learn... Easiest way to start is to spend $20 on an OBD2 reader and use Dr. Prius app: Dr. Prius App

    Then next step would be doing cleaning maintenance on your pack to eliminate corrosion and then if that goes well you can get gear to deep cycle your battery pack to restore its capacity and balance the cells. These folks explain that well in this link but their products are overpriced and there's more affordable alternatives: http://www.hybridautomotive.com/frequently-asked-questions/

    The steps outlined above are good DIY things you can do, but probably not cost-effective to pay a mechanic to do.
     
    #2 PriusCamper, Oct 26, 2025 at 6:53 PM
    Brian1954 likes this.
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