Safe storage

[Ian W]

Hi

I'd be most grateful to receive advice on the best approach to preserving the charge on my Rx 450h. I'll soon be leaving the car in a secure underground car park for a period of 7 months. Ideally, on my return, I'd like to simply take the cover off, jump in and drive away. Should I try to arrange a trickle charge (difficult as there is no power socket available) or perhaps disconnect the starter Battery? The car will be stored on the upper deck of a stackable parking space, so its not feasible to have someone to periodically take the car for a run. HELP PLEASE! 

[Britprius]

38 minutes ago, Ian W said:

Hi

I'd be most grateful to receive advice on the best approach to preserving the charge on my Rx 450h. I'll soon be leaving the car in a secure underground car park for a period of 7 months. Ideally, on my return, I'd like to simply take the cover off, jump in and drive away. Should I try to arrange a trickle charge (difficult as there is no power socket available) or perhaps disconnect the starter battery? The car will be stored on the upper deck of a stackable parking space, so its not feasible to have someone to periodically take the car for a run. HELP PLEASE! 

Before parking the car up try to make sure the traction Battery "not the 12 volt" has as high a charge level that can be obtained. To raise the level of charge put the car in drive and with your left foot firmly on the brake press the accelerator with your right foot. This will force charge the Battery, but do no harm to the transmission. This will ensure this Battery will keep sufficient charge over the period. 

If the 12 volt Battery is in good condition I would just disconnect it, but after 7 months it "may" be necessary to jump start the car. Alternatively remove the Battery, and put it on a trickle charger for the duration. 

John.

[Ian W]

Many thanks John, really appreciate your help

[Herbie]

Is the parking place lit? If so, one of these solar chargers will trickle-charge the Battery from artificial light - not quite as well as natural sunlight but they do work underground.

I always carry one of these jump start battery packs in the glove box 'just in case' so it may be prudent for you to have one to hand when the time comes.