Signs Indicating a PHEV Battery Inspection May Be Necessary
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Decreased Fuel Economy and Driving Range:
- If your PHEV is experiencing a noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency or a reduction in its electric driving range, it could indicate declining battery health.
- Monitor fuel economy and range performance over time to identify changes.
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Dashboard Warning Lights:
- Warning lights such as “Check Hybrid System” or a battery symbol on the dashboard are indicative of battery issues.
- Use an OBD-II scanner to read error codes for more detailed information.
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Performance Issues:
- If the vehicle feels sluggish, particularly during acceleration, it may signal battery degradation.
- Lower performance can result from the vehicle relying more heavily on the gasoline engine due to reduced battery capacity.
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Abnormal Noises:
- Unusual noises like buzzing, clicking, or whining from the battery compartment can indicate a failing battery or related issues.
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Inconsistent Charging:
- If the battery does not hold a charge or provide consistent voltage output, it may need inspection.
- Frequent or constant use of the cooling fan could also suggest battery health issues.
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Self-Discharge Issues:
- If the battery loses its charge quickly when not in use, it may be suffering from high self-discharge rates, a common symptom of poor battery condition.
To address these issues, it is advisable to consult with a professional automotive service for a thorough battery health check.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-signs-that-a-phev-battery-needs-inspection/
