Long-term storage

[DM-CO]

I have never owned a hybrid before and I need to learn about LONG-term storage (focusing on TRACTION battery…. I know about tires, fuel, pests, etc). I am therefore going to give a hypothetical scenario below (with pretty severe constraints) and I would like to hear what folks on this board think the best approach to storing an LC is while my wife and I go on a 6 month (hypothetical) trip to Mars and back.

• trip duration 6-8 months
• unheated garage-parked.
• temps between, say 10-degrees F and 90-degrees F as the seasons pass.
• NO friends/family/neighbors/vendors available to come and start the LC for the entire duration of the trip. It’s just parked.
• 12v battery will either be put on a tickle charger or have the negative disconnected

What should I do or be thinking about regarding the traction battery as my wife and I rocket to Mars? The web/owners manual don’t seem to provide solid info on durations this long.

Any help would be appreciated.

 

[Bad1975]

If you don't have someone to start it up and run it for 30 minutes once or twice a month I'd consider finding a vehicle storage place that offers that service and preferably offers to drive it for that time rather than idle it. If they don't drive it, I'd want a place to change the oil at least once during this period as idling to warm up causes the greatest fuel dilution of the oil. Of course change the oil prior to dropping off as well.

If it weren't a hybrid, I'd just pull the DC cut fuse in the case of the 250 or disconnect the negative in the case of other cars and leave the start battery connected to a battery maintainer.

 

[DM-CO]

If you don't have someone to start it up and run it for 30 minutes once or twice a month I'd consider finding a vehicle storage place that offers that service and preferably offers to drive it for that time rather than idle it. If they don't drive it, I'd want a place to change the oil at least once during this period as idling to warm up causes the greatest fuel dilution of the oil. Of course change the oil prior to dropping off as well.

If it weren't a hybrid, I'd just pull the DC cut fuse in the case of the 250 or disconnect the negative in the case of other cars and leave the start battery connected to a battery maintainer.

Thanks for that. It seems that you feel that an extended time of non-charging would cause traction battery problems. I am leaning that way too. Seems that there is no way to keep them charged OTHER than starting the LC?

I am aware of the “car storage” option and I do know that there is (at least) one near me that will “trickle charge” and start the vehicle 2x per month (I’m not sure about details as to starting/idling times).

Straight ICE engines sure were easier. Maybe I’ll buy the Lexus GX550! LOL.

 

[Bad1975]

I think the traction battery would probably be ok, but it's not worth the potential cost due to the unknowns here IMO. Those old school chemistry tech traction batteries are pretty robust as far as holding charges go though.

Alternative would be to run a reputable brand heater in the garage with a reliable thermostat and low potential for causing a fire while left unattended for that long to aid in allowing the traction batteries their best chance of maintaining a sufficient charge. But this adds another risk I'm not sure I'd be willing to chance with a heater left unattended for that length of time, especially if you have an attached garage.

 

[Bad1975]

If finances allow and you have no modifications you could always sell and buy new when you return if this is a one time type of absence?

 

[wpage]

Thats a long trip. Yes, figuring out the mysteries of the hybrids is still new ground. Suggest, giving permission to a trusted person access while your away to take a occasional joy ride to keep the TLC happy. To avoid coming home to a dead end experience.

 

[DM-CO]

If finances allow and you have no modifications you could always sell and buy new when you return if this is a one time type of absence?

Around the world trip.