What are the best ways to prevent a dead 12V battery in a Prius, especially for infrequent drivers?

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What are the best ways to prevent a dead 12V battery in a Prius, especially for infrequent drivers?

Prius owners who don’t drive regularly may experience 12V battery drain. What are the best preventive measures, such as trickle charging, regular engine starts, o r disconnecting the battery when not in use?

Zarnish asked on 14 Feb 2025 14:15:24 pm

1 Answer

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Car Mechanic Expert - on 14 Feb 2025 14:20:01 pm

For Prius owners who don’t drive regularly:

Trickle Charger: Use a trickle charger o r smart battery maintainer to keep the 12V battery charged when the car is not in use.
Regular Engine Starts: Starting the car once a week and allowing it to run for at least 10-15 minutes helps maintain the 12V battery’s charge.
Disconnect the Battery: If the Prius will be unused for a prolonged period e.g., several weeks, it’s a good idea to disconnect the 12V battery to prevent it from draining.
Use a Battery Saver: If parking for a long time, invest in a battery saver that helps maintain voltage and prevents deep discharge.