They should have a latching type relay or something compared to what's used in a battery operated valve configuration for low power consumption.

 

What's this key-on method for charging? My FEH has died several times over the years (from my forgetting to turn the lights off). I just start it the regular way with jumper cables between my 12v and another car. Is there another way?

Thanks!

 

If the battery is low, but not dead, one can turn the key to the on position and the 330 volt battery will charge the 12 volt battery. If the 12 volt battery is too discharged, however, you need to do a standard jump start.

 

Thanks for the quick reply. I'll try that next time...hopefully there won't be one.

 

Actually a few factors are present here: The relay doesn't draw a large sustained current, neither does the hybrid transaxle windings that act as a starter, BUT they have a very high "instantaneous" load, AND the characteristics of the lead-acid battery to deliver that energy with a voltage not dropping below that critical value for the proper relay coil/armature action, are limited. The discharge characteristics and instantaneous supply capabilities of the NiMH traction battery are much different, but aren't part of the starting and control circuitry.

That battery probably wasn't trash, but it might have been time for repl. anyhow. I've jumped many times no prob. Once again I'm irritated with the "running scared" engineering decisions made by Ford, not just in the beginning, but throughout the life of the FEH. I do not get decent utilization of MY traction battery. Should have been plug-in hybrid too.