I see a lot of RX400s for sale generally for less than a non-hybrid RX. My question is how long do those hybrid batteries last? They’re going on 15 years now, so that makes me skeptical. Also I live in a northern climate.

Any help on advising about hybrid vs. non-hybrid appreciated!

 

 

Thanks, just wondering how typical this is. I’ve had a few friends replace their Prius batteries in the past few years.

Any other opinions are welcome!

 

Just don't. MOF, as it takes about ten years to recoup hybrid mark up, why even bother? Yes, I know, gas prices keep clmbing up but you will not have AMAZING savings even with a new hybrid and much more expensive repairs. As I said - why even bother?

 

Yes and no. Yes, it is a more complex vehicle with two (AWD) electric generator motors and 650V battery.

Yes, there are issues with leaks, shorts etc. Generally not difficult to fix. Unless the HV battery modules themselves are damaged.

No, easy to diagnose with Techstream or suitable dongle obd2 reader.

No, you can get very good mpg on longer trips. Then you start seeing diesel equivalents for cars of that era 2005-8. Short trips not great. And electric motors drive only short distance. 400 was designed for performance. The extra 65hp electrics kick in gives the motor some serious punch. So it wasn’t really green car. But it does give v8 power and (2005-8 era) 4 cylinder economy if driven sensibly.

Yes you live in trepidation of a battery warning light

No, they are more robust than you’d think.

 

It’s not always about saving gas. In my opinion the hybrid offers a better driving experience.

OP if you buy an RX hybrid in this generation, make sure the battery has already been replaced by a reputable shop or plan on getting it replaced soon after you buy.

There is no way you won’t be dealing with the battery on a hybrid this old, no matter the mileage.

But to be honest, it really isn’t that big of a deal. There are lots of things that could go wrong on the regular RX that could add up to the cost of a hybrid battery.

 

+100500
Buying a hybrid just answer a question "Will I have a $2-3k in case of emergency (battery replacement)?". Battery may fail in future or may not...

 

Here's key to OP:
I see a lot of RX400s for sale generally for less than a non-hybrid RX.
I counter it with simple wisdom:
1. you always get what you paid for
2. NO ONE rids of good cars. good cars are keepers.

 

180,000kms on my 400h and its been fine. yes there might be a battery replacement down the road, but there are alternatives to paying OEM prices.
Taxi services Prius get 250-300k off their original batteries before they need replacing so I figure our battery packs are about the same.

I paid 20,000 Canadian for the 400h in 2017. So that's almost 4 years ago. Its getting 10L/100km (12-13L/100km on my RX350) so roughly that's a saving of 15L per tank(500kms). I usually fill up 2 tanks a month so that's 30L saved per month.

30 x 1.40 per litre here in Vancouver = 42 bucks a month x 48 months = $2,016 bucks saved on gas alone. Not counting the wear and tear on brakes for a normal rx350.

Its already enough to pay for a hybrid battery replacement if needed but the benefits outweigh the cons of owning a hybrid.

 

Hello Badhobz,
What year is your RX400? I am looking to get a 2007 with 155k km, no battery pck. changed yet. Wondering when should I expect to need changing the battery.

 

Really? No one sells good cars? Yes, a lot of people sell cars when expenses start piling up but there's also a lot of people selling cars because they want something new. If your logic holds true then EVERY car sold used is a lemon? I happen to own a used RX hybrid 2010 model and the owner upgraded himself to a used 2018 hybrid. I haven't had a single issue with the car. I also own a Prius I bought used and now has a 177K miles on it and still taking strong.

 

A hybrid is a great choice. Yes short trips are not beneficial but overall city driving is rewarding. I've owned 3 hybrids and can tell you from experience. 2 of my hybrids were bought used and one was new. Also someone mentioned of electric motors failing which is not a common problem. As long as you know the history of the car you should be fine. Here in the US there's a great Lexus resource that shows you the full history of the car.
No one can tell you how long a hybrid battery will last. There are very good after market hybrid batteries with life time warranties under 2k. I like the instant torque that hybrids give you. Good luck in your search.

 

Currently at 313k (we bought it brand new in 07)....my battery lasted longer than the engine. Replaced the engine due to an oil leak around 245k. It made sense to replace the engine couldn't buy a reliable car for the repair costs.

This hybrid isn't about just saving gas, it's also higher performing due to added help from hybrid system.

Since op said they live up North...Obviously not the first choice that comes to mind for snow driving, but due to its weight, I've never gotten stuck, I go skiing yearly. Few times fresh powder on road 10"+

Currently avg about 26mpg mostly highway driving, I basically use every hp it has to offer all the time, with like 200lbs of tools in the trunk...its basicly my work "truck" now.

 

Thank you for great insight Nehal51086

 

another data point.

bought my first 07 rx400h in late 2010 with 74km, sold late 2018 with 250km. no hybrid battery issues

bought my 2nd 08 rx400h in late 2018 with 110km, currently at 147km. no hybrid battery issues.

personally, the oldest hybrid car i would buy would be 10 years old, with intent to drive it for 5 years (will think of selling it at the 15 year old mark).