Toyota Highlander Hybrid Battery Concern

[sansea]

Just bought a 2007 Highlander Hybrid that I love.

After driving 4 hours (highway) and then sitting in traffic for 20 minutes, the energy screen showed the battery depleted (pink and at 2-3 bars).

Fortunately, I was able to drive the car again and the battery recharged.

This is my first hybrid.

What's happening here?

This does not seem normal. I didn't know if there was something I was supposed to be doing.

Thanks very much.

[trlhiker]

Do you have a manual? From what I have read, when you are at a stand still, the car runs off of the battery alone which will deplete the battery if you are stopped for a long time. When you resume driving, the gas engine will start again and recharge the battery. Sounds like it worked like it should.

[ukrkoz]

Nothing. It's normal operation. You have apparently same display design as I do - 7 bars going from green to blue to purple. When it drops down to 2 bars, ICE - internal combustion engine - kicks in and restores charge to at least 2 full or right above it.
Perfectly normal. Enjoy the car.

[sansea]

Thanks very much for your comments.

It's a learning curve, and I was mistaken to confuse the hybrid battery with the car battery.

[ukrkoz]

I had exactly same Q when I bought mine. Even dealer didn't know the answer.
You have a 12V battery that is NOT used for starting and the so called traction battery. Those are VERY reliable ones.
I'd suggest to start membership at toyotanation Highlander Hybrid forum. Those folks will have any answer to any Q you have.

[sansea]

Thank you ukroz, appreciate it greatly!
The forum sounds like a terrific resource.