My 450h is going to be sitting in the garage for about 6 weeks without being started. I think that this may be starting to push the limits of the 12 volt battery charge and getting the vehicle started again. I have a Battery Tender on order and was just wondering how others connected theirs.

The two options are to go directly to the battery in the rear or to connect to the jump connection point in the engine compartment. I'm not sure if the jump connection is "hot" with the ignition switch in the off position.

 

Jump connection is always hot, otherwise it wouldn't be a jump connection.

 

That was my initial assumption until I read the online manual on how to jump start the hybrid. It tells you to make the connection to the jumper post then turn the ignition to the ON position for 5 minutes before starting the vehicle.

With "conventional" vehicles they tell you to make the connection then let the battery charge a little before trying to start. That is what I expected to read in the manual. It was the part with the ignition switch in the ON position that got me thinking.

Posting here was easier than digging out a volt meter and taking the covers off under the hood.

 

Given my experience with my car's 12v battery - I don't trust it longer than two weeks without a tender.

You may be entertained to read that my dealer's sales room representative suggested that I install a battery switch - and when I park the car at the airport for a two-week's vacation, I should merely disconnect the battery.

Aside from the not-so-humorous though of asking my wife to open up the back area to unearth the battery and perform the suggested procedure -- I asked him just how she was supposed to open the hatch to get to the battery when she returned (perhaps I simply haven't found out how to insert a key back there).

Some people just shouldn't be allowed to speak to customers.

 

Get a volt meter and see if the jump connection is 'hot' with the ignition off.

 

Has it been successful, to charge battery?
I am also thinking to use battery tender.

Can you use this place for power outlet for auxiliary driving lights/spot lamps?

 

I ended up making connections directly to the battery. There were fewer covers and clips to remove to get there. It worked just fine. I used the battery tender junior.