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Gen 2 Battery won't hold a charge

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by HollysPrius, Jul 29, 2020.

  1. HollysPrius

    HollysPrius New Member

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    I've jumped it and driven it for a good hour but it still dies out after several hours. The longest it held was over night. Which battery needs replacing? thank you
     
  2. SFO

    SFO Senior Member

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    The 12v needs attention. When was the last time it was replaced?

    How many hours per week are you currently driving?
     
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  3. HollysPrius

    HollysPrius New Member

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    I don't recall when so a long time. Used to drive 300 but it's been on quarantine and not moving much. 190k miles so I'll assume you are right and have it replaced. Thank you.
     
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  4. sam spade 2

    sam spade 2 Senior Member

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    Given the circumstances, that probably is a good guess.
    But most any place that sells a battery that will fit can also test the old one.
    That includes a dealer or places like Auto Zone.

    P.S. Make sure that your new one is fully charged before installing.
    Part of the problem is that the onboard charging system doesn't have enough capacity to bring back a dead battery.......and may not fully charge a new one either and that is important for it's longevity.
     
  5. wjtracy

    wjtracy Senior Member

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    I just killed my Gen2 batt accidentally it was sitting unused due to COVID and normally I always turned off the SKS smart key system on longer down time, but I forgot under these unusual circumstances. Now I just turned off the SKS for good. The Gen2 12v charges slowly in normal operations, so you have to keep in mind the potential to run it down if you just do short trips. Once you run it down a few times, that's all it takes.
     
  6. edthefox5

    edthefox5 Senior Member

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    Buy a new 12 volt then drive the car at least 10 miles a day or your hybrid battery will fail next. Your probably already getting bad mileage.
    Get at least 3 blue bars on it everyday. If you don’t it will be a huge expensive hassle with not a good outcome.

    I say this with the kindest intentions.
     
  7. edthefox5

    edthefox5 Senior Member

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    A optima yellowtop 12 volt battery is a good choice as there popular at auto stores. I have one in my car right now there a direct replacement. About $250 installed. Find an auto parts store that has one then look online for a coupon. I got $50 foot on my yellowtop that way.

    The original factory Toyota 12 battery is the best but expensive I bet maybe $350 installed.

    Good luck and drive
     
  8. sam spade 2

    sam spade 2 Senior Member

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    Possible but I doubt it is that high in most places.
    Call a dealer or two and ask.
     
  9. Mendel Leisk

    Mendel Leisk Senior Member

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    If the car's regularly sitting for multiple days, then only getting short drives, look into a smart charger, 3.5 amp max rating (owner's manual stipulation). You can leave them connected constantly; it'll charge then maintain the battery.

    This assumes you're parked securely and have 120 volt access. If you're street parked or underground without outlets, you'll need other tactics.
     
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  10. edthefox5

    edthefox5 Senior Member

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    My dealer gets $140 an hour minimum charge and since she’s a lady I’m sure they’ll find at least $1500 of work she will need right away so your right my dealer price on that battery was not even close.