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We just picked up a 2005 Hydrid Civic (we own two 2004 Civics and DX and an EX). We were told by the previous owner that it needed a Hybrid battery. We took it to Greentec and they tested it and said it was okay. Our question is what does that mean?

If we go up a 1.5 mile grade on the freeway, the dashboard mounted indicator goes from about 100% down to about 0% charge. Similarly, if we descend for about two miles, it totally recharges to about 100%. It seems like the capacity is way down but we haven't found any specs for this. There are no fault lights or error codes. We believe that the battery is probably 11 years old, but can not verify this.

We understand these cars are often considered "underpowered" and we understand that, but the battery seems to not have much longevity.

So what are your thoughts? If we replace the battery should we go to the 8.0 amp hour upgraded version? If so, what should we expect?

Many thanks!

 
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Greentech lied.
might as well get the improved pack

 
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Well, at least Greentec didn't try to sell me something I didn't need! I still wonder what they tested and the criteria...I should have asked. Is there anything I can do to test it other than voltage?

It is a curious little car, but I am getting in the mid 40s for mileage.

Can anyone explain why I might want, or need, a Maxx Volts EL-1 Entry Level Charging system?

Any other tips for this car would be appreciated.

Thanks

Honda Civic Tim
2004 DX
2004 EX
2005 Hybrid

 
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You're doing a load test by trying to drive it.
no idea what that charging thing is, but I'm not familiar with hybrids

 
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Considering an 04 civic probably isn't worth more than $500-$2000, and a new battery will likely cost $1000+, I wouldn't replace it.

The 04 hybrid civic runs just fine with the hybrid battery entirely missing or dead - you have some dash lights and lose a little horsepower (but only about 9 hp - so it really doesn't make much difference). It doesn't even negatively impact MPG in my experience. All important car systems like brake assist, power steering, AC, etc run off the other low voltage battery.


Therefore, I'd just keep going with the existing battery till it dies totally (probably another 80k miles considering your light even on yet), and then remove the battery to save a bit of weight and drive it batteryless.

 
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> It seems like the capacity is way down but we haven't found any specs for this.

It's a very early NiMH battery, and not awfully big. Depends on the grade of your highway, but I wouldn't imagine that even when new the battery could take you all the way up a 2 mile hill.

If you're worried about MPG, first start by checking the brakes aren't dragging (after driving on a highway without using the brakes, they shouldn't be warm - if they are hot despite not being used, they'll be stealing 10mpg or more). Then clean/replace the air filter and change the oil (old oil compared to new seems to give ~5mpg). Pump the tyres up to half way between what the handbook recommends and what the tyres say is the 'max presure' (the handbook pressure is mostly for comfort, but I can assure you that for mpg tests the manufacturer pumps the tyres up far harder!)

 
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CivicGuy04, Thanks for your posts! Yes, I think I just have to get used to the fact that the car doesn't have near as much power as my 2004 Civics. I would dislike buying a new battery (about $1500 installed) and find there is no significant improvement. If the IMA causes real problems (such as can't pass smog check) I might replace the battery and will spend the extra $100 for 8 vs. 6 amp rating battery, but thanks for tempering my expectations.

Also, the current tires on our HCH are not low rolling resistance. like the original set. But they have good tread and are not too old so I don't want to replace them for may 2 mpg, but when they need replacement, I will investigate more efficient tires..

I am actually very happy with the 42 to 45 mpg that I have been getting! It's a fun car to drive, when there are no hills (though there are quite a few around here).

Interestingly, the person I got it from has it for almost 15 years and she was compelled to get a Honda Clarity Hybrid for her next car. I can't blame her, I think my next car will be another Hybrid.