Yeah, I’ve noticed that too—insurance companies are quick to call anything “wear and tear” when it comes to batteries. It’s frustrating, especially since the cost of a new battery is no joke. I do think the manufacturer warranties are pretty reassuring, though. As long as you’re within that window, you’re probably covered for most major issues. Still, I get why people worry... it’s not like you can just pop down to the shop and grab a cheap replacement if something goes wrong.
Had a scare with my Leaf’s battery last winter—range dropped way more than usual, and I was convinced it was toast. Called insurance just in case, but yeah, they said it’s “normal degradation” and not covered. Luckily, Nissan’s warranty still had me covered, but it was a tense week. These batteries aren’t like swapping out AA’s... the cost is wild if you’re not under warranty.
Insurance is a joke when it comes to EV batteries. Had a Bolt for a few years, and the battery started acting up after a cold snap—range just tanked overnight. I figured, hey, I pay enough for insurance, maybe they’ll help out. Nope. “Wear and tear,” they said, like it’s a set of tires or something. Ended up fighting with the dealer for weeks before they finally agreed it was a warranty issue.
Honestly, these batteries are the most expensive part of the car, but insurance treats them like windshield wipers. Makes no sense to me. If you’re out of warranty, you’re basically on your own unless you want to shell out more for some special coverage (which probably costs an arm and a leg anyway). I get that batteries degrade, but the cost to replace one is just brutal if you’re not covered. Makes me miss the days when a dead battery meant $100 at AutoZone and 10 minutes in the parking lot...
Insurance and EV batteries are such a weird combo. I totally get what you mean about feeling like you’re on your own if something goes wrong. That “wear and tear” excuse is the one that always gets me too. Like, yeah, I know batteries don’t last forever, but it’s not like I’m burning rubber at the drag strip every weekend.
Makes me miss the days when a dead battery meant $100 at AutoZone and 10 minutes in the parking lot...
Right? I remember swapping out a battery in my old Civic on a road trip—barely broke a sweat. Now, if my EV battery even hiccups, it’s like, “How many thousands is this gonna cost?” The tech is cool, but the stress isn’t.
At least you got it sorted under warranty, even if it took some fighting. I’ve heard some folks have luck with third-party “battery insurance,” but it’s pricey and kinda feels like another gamble. Here’s hoping the industry catches up and starts treating batteries like the big deal they are. Until then, fingers crossed for mild weather and long warranties...
- Totally agree on the sticker shock.
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—that’s the nightmare, right?“How many thousands is this gonna cost?”
- I’ve looked into those third-party battery plans too. Most seem to have so many exclusions, it’s almost like buying a lottery ticket.
- Wish there was a middle ground—like, “normal” insurance that actually covers what we need.
- Until then, I’m babying my battery like it’s made of glass and praying for no surprises...
