Questions For First-Generation Insight Owners
 

1. How long do the batteries last?

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

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.

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:

http://ecomodder.com/forum/showthrea...ems-13610.html