Hi all, I will be picking up a 2007 Civic Hybrid tomorrow. It has 210k miles on it. The original owner had the IMA battery replaced at Honda a year and a half ago. Said the front struts needed to be replaced. For $4500 I thought this may be a car I can kill in a few years for my commuter. I drive 130 miles a day, 65 each way in Southern California. At first I was going to buy a Prius, but after researching freeway mileage it looked like the Civic was about the same. After reading some threads I'm not to sure.

What are the general thoughts of needing a grid charger? I've noticed there are users with mileage monitors as well. Does the vehicles on board system not work well?

Looking forward to saving some gas as my old commuter was a 94 Toyota 4x4 pickup with a 22re. My driving style gave me about 29 mpg in it at that was very good for what it is.

Any suggestions or insight would be very welcome.

 

you may or may not ever need a grid charger. If you drive mostly easy highway miles and don't let the battery sit too long (like 3 weeks or longer), you may be OK. The newest software prevents the battery from discharging as much, and is easier on the assist. I would only worry about it if you start showing symptoms (loss of power/assist on acceleration, charge bars dropping below 4 consistently). Enjoy your vehicle!