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Are there two batteries in a Toyota Hybrid?

Yes, Toyota hybrid vehicles typically have two batteries - a high-voltage hybrid battery and a standard 12-volt battery. The hybrid battery powers the electric motor, while the 12-volt battery powers the vehicle's electrical systems and accessories.


The Role of Batteries in Toyota Hybrid Vehicles


Toyota hybrid cars, such as the Prius, Camry Hybrid, and RAV4 Hybrid, utilize a unique powertrain that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor. This hybrid system allows the vehicle to switch between the gas engine, electric motor, or a combination of both, depending on driving conditions and power needs.


To enable this hybrid functionality, Toyota hybrid vehicles are equipped with two distinct battery systems:



  • High-Voltage Hybrid Battery: This is the main battery pack that stores and provides power to the electric motor. It is a large, rechargeable battery, typically a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) or lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery, with a voltage of around 200-600 volts.

  • 12-Volt Battery: This is a standard lead-acid battery, similar to the one found in conventional gasoline-powered vehicles. It powers the vehicle's electrical systems, such as the lights, infotainment system, and other accessories.


The high-voltage hybrid battery is the primary power source for the electric motor, allowing the vehicle to operate in electric-only mode for short distances. The 12-volt battery, on the other hand, ensures that the vehicle's electrical systems and accessories can function even when the hybrid battery is not providing power.


Advantages of the Dual-Battery System


The use of two separate battery systems in Toyota hybrids offers several advantages:



  • Improved Efficiency: The hybrid battery can be optimized for electric propulsion, while the 12-volt battery can be dedicated to powering the vehicle's electrical systems, improving overall energy efficiency.

  • Redundancy: If the high-voltage hybrid battery experiences an issue, the 12-volt battery can still power the vehicle's essential functions, allowing the driver to safely reach their destination.

  • Reduced Maintenance: The 12-volt battery in a Toyota hybrid is typically smaller and less demanding than the battery in a conventional gasoline-powered vehicle, potentially reducing maintenance requirements.


By having two separate battery systems, Toyota hybrid vehicles can leverage the strengths of both to provide a more efficient, reliable, and user-friendly driving experience.

How much does it cost to replace a Toyota hybrid battery?


$2,000 to $8,000
How much does a hybrid battery cost? Generally, a hybrid battery replacement cost can range from $2,000 to $8,000. The price can ultimately vary depending on the %%di_make%% model or even the service center.



What is the average lifespan of a Toyota hybrid battery?


AI Overview You can drive a Toyota hybrid without a fully functional battery, but it's not recommended. Driving without the battery can damage the hybrid system and significantly reduce the vehicle's performance.  Explanation Hybrid vehicles use a combination of an electric motor and a gasoline engine. The battery powers the electric motor, which helps the gasoline engine run more efficiently.  If you can get a hybrid car started, you can drive it without the hybrid powertrain. However, the vehicle may run poorly and have greatly reduced power. This mode should only be used to reach a safe location or service station.  Tips for maintaining your hybrid battery 

  • Monitor the battery level in your hybrid car
  • Routinely inspect the charging system
  • Avoid allowing the batteries to overcharge and then overheat
Hybrid batteries are designed to last around a decade before having to be replaced.  You can also watch this video to learn more about driving a hybrid with a dead battery:59sHoovies GarageYouTube · Oct 6, 2017Generative AI is experimental. Learn more
    Can you still Drive a Hybrid without the Battery? - Exclusively HybridJan 26, 2021Exclusively HybridIf a Hybrid Battery Dies Can You Still Drive the Car?Sep 15, 2022 — Hybrid batteries are designed to last around a decade before having to be replaced. The battery is used to power the e...Precision Auto Service(function(){
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    Can you drive a hybrid car without the hybrid battery?


    AI Overview Yes, you can drive a hybrid car without the hybrid battery if it has a conventional starter. However, driving without the battery can permanently damage the hybrid system.  How does a hybrid car work without a battery? 

    • When a hybrid car runs out of battery power, it automatically switches to using the internal combustion engine (ICE) to run on gas or diesel.
    • The ICE also recharges the battery while driving.
    What happens if the battery is dead?
    • Some hybrids, like the Toyota Prius, won't start if the battery is completely dead. 
    • Mild hybrids can be driven with a depleted battery, but they may be stranded if the 12-volt system fails. 
    • You can jump start a mild hybrid from another vehicle. 
    How long does a hybrid battery last?
    • Hybrid batteries are designed to last about a decade. 
    • Signs of a failing battery include a dramatic drop in MPG or weak acceleration. 
    • You'll usually get a warning light too. 
    You can also watch this video to learn more about driving a hybrid with a dead battery:51sHoovies GarageYouTube · Oct 6, 2017Generative AI is experimental. Learn more
      Can you still Drive a Hybrid without the Battery? - Exclusively HybridJan 26, 2021Exclusively HybridHybrid Batteries: Everything You Need to Know - Car and DriverIf the Battery Needs Replacement Batteries do fail, though, so it's helpful to know what to do. Basically, its time is short when ...Car and Driver(function(){
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      What happens when a Toyota hybrid battery dies?


      If the high-voltage battery completely dies, however, the car won't be able to be driven at all, in most cases. The car will detect that a catastrophic failure has occurred and will put a stop to all motion to avoid damaging anything else.



      Can a dead hybrid battery be recharged?


      AI Overview A Toyota hybrid battery typically lasts 80,000 to 200,000 miles, or 5 to 15 years, depending on the model and driving conditions.  Lifespan

      • The average life of a Toyota Camry hybrid battery is around 100,000 miles. 
      • Toyota of Santa Fe says you might need to replace a hybrid battery every 150,000 miles or 15 years. 
      • Frequent driving in extreme temperatures can shorten the battery's life. 
      Signs of a failing battery 
      • Decreased fuel economy
      • Erratic charging
      • Decreased battery charge
      • Increased use of the internal combustion system
      • Strange engine noises
      • Difficulty accelerating
      Replacement costs 
      • Replacing a hybrid battery can cost between $2,000 and $8,000.
      • The price can vary depending on the model and service center.
      Maintenance Toyota says you can extend the life of your Toyota hybrid battery by performing regular maintenance.  Warranty Before 2020, Toyota offered an 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty on its hybrid batteries.  Generative AI is experimental. Learn more
        How Long Will Your Toyota Hybrid Battery Last You Before- YouTubeAug 1, 2024 — month or 240,000 km whichever comes first warranty from the manufacturer. on the high voltage Hybrid battery so clearly...YouTube · Toyota WorldHow Long Do Toyota Hybrid Batteries Last? - CincinnatiMar 8, 2021 — But what is the expected life span of their batteries? Most hybrid vehicle manufacturers say that, on average, a hybrid...Kings Toyota(function(){
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        How long does a battery last in a Toyota hybrid?


        • How Long Will Your Toyota Hybrid Battery Last You Before- YouTubeAug 1, 2024 — month or 240,000 km whichever comes first warranty from the manufacturer. on the high voltage Hybrid battery so clearly...YouTube · Toyota World
        • How Long Do Toyota Hybrid Batteries Last? - CincinnatiMar 8, 2021 — But what is the expected life span of their batteries? Most hybrid vehicle manufacturers say that, on average, a hybrid...Kings Toyota
        • Toyota Battery WarrantyToyota offers BEV battery warranty coverage for 8 years, or 100K miles, whichever comes first. In addition to providing for a full...Toyota
        • How Long Do Toyota Hybrid Batteries Last?Apr 26, 2021 — Toyota Hybrid Battery Life When it comes to the batteries found in Toyota hybrid models, you can rest at ease knowing ...Sloane Toyota
        • How Long Does The Camry Hybrid Battery Last?Nov 2, 2023 — The average life of a Toyota Camry hybrid battery is approximately 5-8 years or around 100,000 miles.Exclusively Hybrid
        • How Much Does a Hybrid Battery Cost? - Beechmont ToyotaHow much does a hybrid battery cost? Generally, a hybrid battery replacement cost can range from $2,000 to $8,000. The price can u...beechmonttoyota.com
        • How Often Should You Replace a Hybrid Battery? | Toyota of Santa FeTypically, a hybrid battery replacement will be necessary every 150,000 miles or 15 years, whichever comes first. However, it's im...Toyota of Santa Fe
        • Toyota Prius hybrid battery: failures, repair and replacement Toyota Prius batteries * You notice a decrease in fuel economy and increase stops at gas stations.* There is erratic charge.servomotorsadjust.com



        Can you drive a Toyota hybrid without the battery?


        • Can you still Drive a Hybrid without the Battery? - Exclusively HybridJan 26, 2021Exclusively Hybrid
        • If a Hybrid Battery Dies Can You Still Drive the Car?Sep 15, 2022 — Hybrid batteries are designed to last around a decade before having to be replaced. The battery is used to power the e...Precision Auto Service
        • Can You Drive A Hybrid Without The Battery? - Car From JapanIt is critical to keep an eye on the battery levels in your hybrid vehicle. This may be accomplished by routinely inspecting the c...Car From Japan
        • What happens when a hybrid car runs out of battery power? - CarsGuideJan 23, 2023 — However, most manufacturers don't recommend this as the lack of a neutral gear in the transmission could allow the bat...CarsGuide
        • Understanding Hybrid Cars: How They Work & What to Do When ...Driving a hybrid without a functional high-voltage battery is generally not recommended. While some hybrids operate on a parallel ...1000 Islands Toyota



        Can you still drive a hybrid if the battery fails?


        AI Overview You can sometimes drive a hybrid car if the battery fails, but it's generally not recommended. The car may run poorly, and it could damage the hybrid system.  Explanation

        • Battery type Most hybrid cars have two batteries: the main hybrid battery and a smaller battery for electronics. 
        • Driving without the main battery Driving without the main hybrid battery can cause permanent damage to the hybrid system. 
        • Driving without the smaller battery If the smaller battery dies, you can still drive the car. 
        • Driving with a compromised battery If the main hybrid battery is compromised, the car may run, but it won't be smooth, and power will be greatly reduced. 
        What to do if the battery fails If the main hybrid battery dies, you should not attempt to drive the vehicle. You should call a breakdown recovery service.  This video can also help you learn more about hybrid batteries:1mThe Car Care NutYouTube · Jan 11, 2025Generative AI is experimental. Learn more
          Can you still Drive a Hybrid without the Battery? - Exclusively HybridJan 26, 2021Exclusively HybridHow Long Do Hybrid Car Batteries Last?If a Hybrid Battery Dies, Can You Still Drive the Car? Sometimes customers ask us, “If a hybrid battery dies, can you still drive ...Haldeman Lexus of Princeton(function(){
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          Which battery starts a Toyota Hybrid?


          The 12-volt battery generates enough electricity to start the car.



          Do Toyota hybrids have two batteries?


          A hybrid Toyota actually has two batteries: one of these is a very standard lead-acid battery, very similar to what is found in fully gas-powered cars. The other one, however, is very unique to electric-powered vehicles and is an electric battery.


          Kevin's Auto

          Kevin Bennett

          Company Owner

          Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.