How long does the battery last in a Honda Clarity?
Battery life depends on which Clarity you own: the all‑electric Clarity BEV, the plug‑in hybrid Clarity PHEV, or the hydrogen fuel‑cell Clarity FCV. In practical terms, BEV and PHEV owners see different per‑charge ranges, while all versions share a long‑term battery warranty and aging characteristics typical of modern lithium‑ion packs. As of 2024, Honda has largely phased out the Clarity lineup in the U.S., with availability limited to existing leases or specific markets.
Battery specs by Clarity model
Below is a snapshot of the energy storage and charging characteristics for the three Clarity variants. The figures reflect common specifications used during the model years when the cars were available.
: roughly 25.5 kWh battery pack, EPA range about 89 miles per charge; supports DC fast charging (up to around 50 kW) and Level 2 charging (about 4–6 hours on a typical 240V charger to full). : roughly 17 kWh battery pack, EPA electric range around 40–45 miles; primarily Level 2 charging to full in about 2.5–3 hours; DC fast charging is not standard for this variant. : uses a hydrogen fuel‑cell system with a comparatively small battery for power management; the vehicle’s total range is hydrogen‑driven rather than battery‑only, so “per‑charge” limits are not a defining metric for daily use.
The numbers above are representative of how the Clarity lineup functioned during its active years. Because Honda has reduced Clarity sales and support in recent years, exact equipment details can vary by model year and market.
How long a Clarity battery lasts in practice
Battery longevity depends on usage, climate, charging habits, and maintenance. Honda’s own warranty coverage provides a baseline expectation for how long the high‑voltage battery should remain reliable.
- Warranty coverage: Most Clarity high‑voltage batteries are backed by an 8‑year/100,000‑mile warranty in the U.S., covering significant capacity loss and repair needs that occur within that period.
- Expected degradation: Modern lithium‑ion packs typically retain a large majority of their capacity for several years. Many owners see roughly 10–20% capacity loss after 8–10 years under normal use, though real-world results vary with climate and charging patterns.
- Life beyond warranty: With careful charging (avoiding consistently high state of charge in hot/cunny environments), moderate driving, and regular maintenance, a Clarity battery can continue to function well beyond the warranty window, though range will taper over time.
Note: Because the Clarity lineup has been largely phased out in the U.S., ongoing support and battery‑system service options may differ by region, and replacement battery availability may be limited for some model years.
Practical tips to maximize battery life
- Avoid keeping the battery at 100% SOC for long periods and minimize deep discharges when possible.
- Charge with a Level 2 charger when feasible to balance speed and battery health.
- Keep the vehicle within moderate temperatures when parked; extreme heat or cold accelerates wear.
- Follow Honda’s maintenance schedule and use approved charging equipment to reduce wear and tear on the battery system.
By following these practices, Clarity owners can help maintain battery health over many years, even as the vehicle ages and the market for these models evolves.
Summary
In short, the battery life of a Honda Clarity varies by model: the BEV delivers about 89 miles of range per charge on a 25.5 kWh pack, the PHEV offers around 40–45 miles of electric range on a 17 kWh pack, and the FCV relies on hydrogen fuel rather than battery range. Warranty coverage typically spans 8 years or 100,000 miles for the high‑voltage pack, with real‑world longevity influenced by climate and charging habits. Given the lineup’s reduced availability, prospective buyers should verify current support and service options in their region.
How long does a Honda Clarity 12V battery last?
3 to 5 years
How often should you replace your 2020 Honda Clarity Plug-In battery? Every 3 to 5 years, but you should have your battery tested regularly for extreme drops in voltage to make sure it's operating at a dependable level. Vehicle batteries ordinarily bear 12 to 13 volts unless you have a high-performance battery.
How much does it cost to replace the battery in a Honda Clarity Hybrid?
A Honda Clarity hybrid battery replacement can cost anywhere from \$2,000 to over \$8,000, depending on the specific battery and where you have the service done. Dealerships typically charge more, potentially between \$6,000 and \$8,000, while aftermarket and remanufactured options, like those offered by companies like Greentec Auto, can be more affordable. Factors like the newness of the battery, installation fees, and the specific service center all contribute to the final price.
You can watch this video to learn more about how much it costs to replace a hybrid battery: 59sDrive.com.auYouTube · Dec 14, 2024
Cost breakdown
- Dealerships: Expect costs to be on the higher end, potentially from \$6,000 to \$8,000.
- Aftermarket/Remanufactured: Prices can vary, with some options ranging from approximately \$2,000 to \$4,000.
- OEM Part: The original part itself can cost around \$4,941.64 or more, before installation labor.
Factors influencing cost
- Service center: Dealerships generally charge more than independent or aftermarket shops.
- Battery type: The cost varies depending on whether you choose a new, remanufactured, or refurbished battery.
- Labor costs: This is a significant part of the total price and will vary by location and service center.
- Vehicle model: The specific model and year can affect the price of the replacement battery.
What to do
- Get a quote: Contact a few different service centers, including your local dealership and independent specialists, to compare quotes.
- Check your warranty: If your battery is still under the 8-year/100,000-mile (or 10-year/150,000-mile for CARB states) warranty, it may be covered for a defective part.
- Consider a remanufactured battery: If your vehicle is out of warranty, a remanufactured option can significantly reduce costs.
What is the lifespan of the Honda EV battery?
Between 15 and 20 years
Between 15 and 20 years is the average lifespan with proper maintenance, and Honda has a five-year warranty* on all our electric car batteries.
How do you know if your Honda needs a new battery?
6 Signs Your Honda's Battery Needs Replacement
- Your Engine's Slow To Start.
- Your Headlights Grow Dim.
- Your Electronics Slow Down.
- Your Battery Is Over Five Years Old.
- Your Battery Looks Warped or Corroded.
- You Smell Leaking Battery Acid.
- Get Prompt Battery Replacement at Your Local Honda Dealership.
