Questions For First-Generation Insight Owners

[Big Dave]

1. How long do the batteries last?

2. How much do replacement batteries cost? US dollars.

[brucepick]

Refurbished batteries for Honda hybrids:
Hybrid-Battery-Repair There's interesting information on that site, too.

I gathered that apparently they're warrantied by Honda for 150,000 miles (and maybe 10 years??). Doesn't matter who owns the car. I believe that's correct but you certainly should confirm before sinking your money into it.

[RobertSmalls]

Originally Posted by Big Dave

1. How long do the batteries last?

2. How much do replacement batteries cost? US dollars.

These are good questions, and it's good to do your homework, but I feel that people make a bigger deal of the batteries than they are. The Insight is the most reliable car I've ever owned, and I bet maintainence costs are lower than for most non-hybrids.

Anyway, I'd say they probably last 5-7 years. However, if an aged battery sits for a few months (e.g. waiting to be sold, or being garaged for the winter), then the battery might last a few months after being returned to service. Giving it a good rebalancing charge before pressing it back into service should prevent that problem.

How much? $3000 at the dealer, $1300ish through Hybrid Battery Repair dot com, and $300ish to DIY:

DIY Solutions to Honda Hybrid Battery Problems (Insight, Civic, IMA)