Hi all! Have been considering a new PHEV, but now maybe thinking that a used one might make more sense. Since I know nothing about how fast the battery can degrade (and won't have much info on how a former owner used it..charging behavior, etc)...what should I consider when looking at used PHEVs? I'm guessing that the battery will appreciably degrade at or soon after the warranty ends...(OK so I'm super skeptical!) Is there a rule of thumb re: how many % charge you lose every year? AND...how much does the former owners "charging behavior" affect battery life? ie: in the old days with cell phone batteries your charging behavior meant a lot re: lifetime of battery. Is that the case with these car batteries? If they charge when its still got 1/2 left, does it degrade faster? If they super-charge, how does that affect the battery life? Should I even care? Thanks!
Based on my experience: Initially a 5-8% loss in the first year. If bought used, you'll never see this. Air cooled are heat and cold sensitive. If a moderate climate (i.e., local orange trees), OK but if ranging from freezing to +90F, avoid air cooled. There is a lot of FUD about battery life but I have my doubts. Unlike consumer products with next to nothing for battery management, automotive battery management is fairly advanced and conservative. If there is a make and model you're interested, join one of their advocacy groups and read past postings. Then ask your questions. Bob Wilson
