What is the voltage of the LS600h battery?

The LS600h’s high-voltage battery is rated at about 288 volts (nominal).

Understanding the LS600h's high-voltage pack

The LS600h, introduced as part of Lexus’ early hybrid lineup, relies on Toyota’s Hybrid System II technology. The traction battery powering the electric motor is a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) pack designed to be charged during braking and engine operation, and it operates at a voltage far higher than the vehicle’s 12-volt auxiliary system. The high-voltage system is carefully isolated from the passenger compartment for safety and is managed by the vehicle’s hybrid control software.

Voltage specifications at a glance

Before listing key numbers, note that actual voltage varies with charge state and operating conditions. The following figures provide the typical specification used by technicians and manufacturers.

• Nominal high-voltage: 288 volts


• Operating range: roughly 270 to 300 volts during normal driving and charging


• Chemistry: Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH)


• Configuration: Traction battery pack for hybrid system (THS II)


• Auxiliary battery: 12-volt system separate from the high-voltage pack

In practice, technicians monitor the pack’s voltage as part of diagnosing hybrid performance, and safety protocols are in place for handling high-voltage components during servicing.

Why the voltage matters

The voltage of the LS600h battery determines how much power the electric motor can deliver and how efficiently the hybrid system can operate. A higher nominal voltage generally allows for more torque delivery and improved electric-only operation, though real-world performance also depends on battery health and state of charge.

Safety and maintenance considerations

Because the high-voltage NiMH pack operates at several hundred volts, handling and maintenance require trained technicians. Replacement and servicing are typically done by authorized service centers that can safely disconnect the high-voltage system and perform diagnostics.

Summary

The LS600h’s high-voltage battery is designed around a nominal 288 volts, forming the core of the vehicle’s THS II hybrid system. While the exact voltage can vary with charge state, the 288V nominal rating remains the standard reference for owners and technicians. The pack is NiMH, and it operates alongside a separate 12-volt battery for standard vehicle electronics.

How to check lexus hybrid battery health?

You can check a Lexus hybrid battery's health by looking for dashboard warning lights, using the vehicle's on-board diagnostics menu, or by using a professional OBD2 scanner with a hybrid-specific app. For a thorough check, you can also manually measure individual cell voltages with a multimeter, but this requires advanced knowledge. 
This video explains how to use a professional OBD2 scanner to check your car's battery health: 1mMr.ElectricYouTube · Apr 7, 2020
Method 1: Use your car's on-board diagnostics 

• Turn the car to accessory mode (press the power button twice without your foot on the brake). 
• On the navigation screen, press the "Menu" button. 
• Turn the headlights on and off several times until the diagnostic menu appears. 
• Navigate to the "Function Check" or "Diagnostic" section to find the battery health report or voltage readings. 

Method 2: Use an OBD2 scanner and app 

• Plug an OBD2 scanner into the port under the dashboard. 
• Turn the vehicle on in "READY" mode. 
• Connect to the scanner via a smartphone app like Dr. Prius or Hybrid Assistant. 
• Navigate to the "HV Battery" monitoring screen to view detailed data. 
• Look for the following indicators:
  • Voltage: Healthy modules should be between 7.2V7.2 cap V7.2𝑉 and 8.4V8.4 cap V8.4𝑉. 
  • Internal Resistance: This should be uniform across all modules. 
  • Delta SOC (State of Charge): Avoid large gaps between module states of charge. 
• Be aware of error codes, such as P0A80 (Hybrid Battery Deterioration) or P3000 (Battery Control System Malfunction). 

This video demonstrates how to check your car's battery voltage using the on-board diagnostics menu: 1mViktor G AutomotiveYouTube · Aug 30, 2023
Method 3: Look for warning signs

• Pay attention to dashboard warning lights, such as the "Check Hybrid System" light or the general "Check Engine" light. 
• Listen for unusual noises from the battery cooling fan, which may indicate a cooling system issue. 
• Notice if the battery is draining or reaching a full charge more quickly than it used to. 

Method 4: Professional hybrid health check

• Schedule an annual "Hybrid Health Check" with a Lexus dealership or a qualified hybrid specialist.
• This check includes a comprehensive analysis of the hybrid battery, drive system, and cooling system to evaluate the overall health of the hybrid technology. 

What are common problems with the Lexus LS600HL?

Top Lexus LS600h Problems

• Clicking/Knocking Sound From the Brake Actuator.
• The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Warning Light May Illuminate.
• Check Engine Light Due to Code P1423.
• The Inside Rear View Mirror May Become Discolored.
• Check Engine Light With Code P0867 and/or P0990.

How much does it cost to replace the battery in a Lexus LS600h?

The average cost for a Lexus LS600h Battery Replacement is between $439 and $459. Labor costs are estimated between $42 and $62 while parts are typically priced around $396. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location.

What is the normal voltage of a hybrid battery?

300 volts
It is worth noting that hybrids also have a normal 12-volt battery to run accessories like other cars, but that's not what we're talking about. The hybrid battery is a high-voltage battery, on the order of 300 volts.