12v Battery Maintenance

[spacenase]

Hi,

Has anyone got any suggestions on how to maintain the 12v Battery in the car whilst travel is so limited? I've heard of hybrid car owners having difficulty with their 12v Battery running down when they only do very short journeys because it doesn't get a chance to recharge properly, even more so than in non-hybrid vehicle.

Is it safe to use a trickle charger, or are there any other techniques we can use?

 

[Paul Brooksbank]

Park the car, make sure all interior lights are switched off including the courtesy, boot and glove box. Walk away and don't worry.

[Herbie]

A trickle charger is fine, or a solar panel charger like these will work too.

Alternatively, just sit in the car and run it for a few minutes every two or three days, or go to the food shop in it.

[spacenase]

Thanks all, I'll see how it goes over the next couple of weeks and get a trickle charger if it struggles.

 

[Heanorboy]

Just for info is there a simple charging point?

[thom thomas]

I have had to call the AA out twice in the past three months for a flat 12 v Battery......The Battery was charged by Lexus and tested ,no problem found...seems that i don`t use the car enough...!!..This is my third  hybrid Lexus....no Battery issues with the other cars....

[Zotto]

Do you keep your remote keys near the car? If so, try moving them far away. Another cause could be a  GSM anti theft system.