The Average Cost to Replace a Prius Battery at a Mechanic is $1,023 to $1,235, With a Parts Cost of $840 to $1,005.
This price range is based on national averages for all Prius models and does not factor in taxes, fees, or your particular make and model. Related repairs or maintenance may also be needed such as hybrid auxiliary battery repair, hybrid cooling system servicing, and repairs for electronic systems that read the battery’s charge like the infotainment system. For a more accurate estimate based on your make, model, and location, use the RepairPal Fair Price Estimator.
Get a more accurate estimate for your Prius battery replacement cost using RepairPal’s Fair Price Estimator:
Cost at the Mechanic: $1,023-$1,235
Parts: $840-$1,005
Labor: $183-$230
The hybrid battery on a Toyota Prius generates electric power to propel the car, versus the the 12-volt battery that provides power for the car’s electronics such as the starter, radio, and lighting. The hybrid battery generates high voltage, so to prevent risk of damaging this battery or the potential for electrical shock, it may be wise to let a Toyota-certified mechanic replace your Prius battery. Plus, the entire cost may be waived if your model is still under appropriate Toyota warranty coverage, which can be up to 10 years or 150,000 miles depending on the year.
Chances are that your Toyota hybrid’s battery pack will need replacing while it’s still under the original manufacturer warranty. If it’s not under warranty, you might also look for reconditioned battery packs and have an independent mechanic install one. The lower price of the reconditioned battery could save you hundreds of dollars, but just be sure that the product is high quality and that the battery and installation work have warranties.
Cost to DIY: $840-$1,005
Difficulty Level: Advanced
Parts Needed:
- Torque or impact wrenches
- Socket set
- Interior panel removal tools (optional)
- Replacement Prius battery pack
It’s very important to get a hybrid battery pack replaced on time, but DIY Prius battery replacements are generally not recommended. The high voltage coming from a Prius’ hybrid battery could cause electric shock if you touch the wrong places resulting in serious injuries or death. Most of the cost is the price of the battery itself, and there’s not that much to save on labor. Only a technician with the proper training for hybrid battery replacement should attempt the task. However, if you still prefer to do it yourself, you can refer to our detailed guide on how to replace a dead car battery.
Keep in Mind: each year and version of the Prius could use different hybrid batteries, so be sure to double-check your owner’s manual about this when it comes time to replace yours, on your own by with a qualified expert.
What Is Prius Battery Replacement?
All batteries lose their effectiveness eventually. Replacing a Prius battery is relatively quick if done at a certified dealership on a scheduled appointment. The technicians will carefully remove the cargo interior mats and gain access to the battery. From there, the technician must properly disconnect, remove, and replace the old battery with a new one.
What Does a Prius Battery Replacement Include?
Most Prius vehicles put the battery pack in the rear, beneath the floor of the cargo area toward the center-back, while others might keep it further forward underneath the rear seat area. In either case, the task only takes about an hour at a Toyota dealership or qualified auto shop. Problem with a hybrid battery are generally unrelated to any issues with a standard 12-volt car battery.
What Happens If You Don’t Replace a Prius Battery?
If you see the P0A80 code using an automotive code reader like FIXD, it means the hybrid battery pack is at risk of failing. You will still be able to drive the car as long as it has gas, even if the battery dies completely. The biggest issue you’ll encounter is much lower fuel economy, since auto stop-start, brake regeneration, EV-only driving ability will not be available. We suggest that you read our article on the most common reasons for a Toyota Prius check engine light to come on.
The Prius is a parallel hybrid, meaning it can still function on just battery voltage or just gasoline. However, you should get both elements up and running at their best, since it’s how the car was designed to be driven.
How Often to Replace a Prius Battery?
Prius battery replacement is usually something you might do after several years and possibly a few battery cell replacements or other light repairs. In most Toyota hybrid vehicles, battery replacement is covered by a warranty for up to 10 years or 150,000 miles. The Prius is a longstanding hybrid with various generations and sub-models, so always double-check the owner’s manual and any official news updates regarding your specific Toyota Prius.
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Common Symptoms That You Need to Replace a Prius Battery
- Lower fuel economy
- Losing battery charge faster
- Difficulties charging the battery to full
- Unusual noises while driving
- Combustion engine working harder in normal driving
- P0A80 code for Prius battery pack issues
Depending on the model and year, your Prius could function, albeit poorly, with a compromised battery pack, or it could be borderline undrivable. If your battery pack hasn’t lasted as long as it should according to your owner’s manual, you may want to get the vehicle diagnosed for other problems that led to the battery’s issue.
Related Maintenance Services
The following services are commonly performed with Prius battery replacement:
- Hybrid battery repair
- Hybrid cooling system service or replacement
- Electronic repairs for digital components that read the engine and battery’s performances
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At FIXD, our mission is to make car ownership as simple, easy, and affordable as possible. Our research team utilizes the latest automotive data and insights to create tools and resources that help drivers get peace of mind and save money over the life of their car.
