The real cost of replacing a Honda EV battery in 2025

Honda currently only has one electric car in its range, namely the GM Ultium-based Prologue crossover. This is part of a short-lived joint venture between the two automotive groups, which will help the Japanese brand maintain a presence in the US EV market until the e:Architecture generation models are ready for production. The Prologue is a relatively more expensive EV optionbut benefits from a number of impressive standard features and performance capabilities, making it one of the better value products in its segment. The Honda Prologue is performing impressively well when it comes to new EV sales, but is still nowhere near as popular as the Japanese brand’s petrol-electric hybrid offering.

Being an EV, the Honda Prologue will be subject to a battery replacement once it has traveled a certain distance or lifespan. In this case you will have to replace the battery, which is usually a very complicated and expensive procedure. Because Honda bases this model on the Ultium product, battery modules or packs are not readily available, even from Honda, so finding an accurate figure is a bit of a challenge. Fortunately, GM applies a standardized battery pack, which allows us to estimate how much you can expect to pay within a certain range. It’s also likely that you won’t need to replace the battery modules until well after a decade of use, so unless you cause significant damage to the battery, this isn’t a repair you need to worry about, especially if the vehicle is still under warranty.

In order to provide you with the most current and accurate information, the data used to compile this article was obtained from various manufacturers’ websites and other authoritative sources.

A new battery can cost almost $16,000

The section is not immediately available to the public

Concept GM’s Ultium battery replacement costs are a bit of a challenge as the group does not disclose the cost of these parts on its online portals. Fortunately, this isn’t the same when you try to look up the Prologue’s battery in Honda’s specialized online parts catalogs. The brand mentions the high-voltage battery pack for the Prologue 2024 with an MSRP of $15,689.47. However, it is clearly stated that this part cannot be shipped due to the dangers involved, meaning you will need to purchase it directly from your dealer.

According to JD poweryou can expect an average EV battery replacement to cost between $4,000 and $20,000. Recurring backs this up with an estimated range of $5,000 to $20,000. Technically, these are both inaccurate estimates because they refer to electric vehicles sold 10 to 15 years ago that require battery replacement today. These are usually batteries with a much smaller capacity. We do know that a new battery for one Chevrolet boltwill cost you $275 per kWh, which equates to approximately $16,250 for a full module replacement. Unfortunately, we can’t apply the same formula to the new generation of GM EVs because the Bolt is on a completely different platform with older battery technology.

The Prologue’s single battery option

The 85 kWh package fits perfectly with the SUV

There isn’t much variety in the Prologue range, as Honda only offers two fixed-power engine configurations. The base model features a front-mounted single engine Producing 220 hp and 243 pound-feet, while the all-wheel-drive option increases this to 300 horsepower and 355 pound-feet by adding a second motor to the rear axle. Both derivatives feature GM’s 85 kWh Ultium battery technology, supplied by LG Chem. The system runs on an effective 400 volt architecture, which translates into good charging times and performance. This is GM’s smallest lithium-ion battery pack, ranking below the 105 kWh and 212 kWh packs intended for larger EVs.

Honda Prologue specs

Front-wheel drive models have an EPA-rated range of 276 miles. The four-wheel drive version reduces this to 451 kilometers. The flagship Elite trims return an even lower 443 miles, with their larger wheel options. With a Level One household plug you can expect the battery to recover from empty to full in approximately 70 hours. A 48 amp level two charging system reduces this time to approximately 8.5 hours. Level three DC fast charging, locked to 150 kW, takes just 43 minutes to restore the battery from zero to 80 percent.

Trim and optional packages have been simplified

If you decide to opt for a brand new model, you can expect to pay $47,400 for the base EX derivative with front-wheel drive. Next up are the $51,700 Touring and $57,900 Elite. The dual-motor upgrade adds $3,000 to the final price, and you also have to factor in the mandatory $1,450 destination and handling fee that the brand applies to all derivatives. Honda keeps the trim structured and distinctive, so there aren’t many optional extras and packages to consider other than the usual accessories and cosmetic changes.

The Prologue’s battery lasts more than 15 years

The new lithium technology is designed for endurance

The Ultium battery consists of a nickel-cobalt-manganese-aluminum chemistryreducing cobalt content by over 70 percent, contributing to a more sustainable design. The flat and stackable battery cells also ensure efficient energy storage and improve driving comfort and vehicle layout flexibility. With built-in electronic components, the Ultium battery eliminates 80 percent of the wiring found in traditional battery packs. This modular system can be adapted to different energy and range requirements. Up to 24 modules are available depending on the needs of the vehicle. GM says the battery is designed to last between 10 and 15 years or about 100,000 to 120,000 miles, depending on driving habits and conditions.

Certain driving and storage conditions can affect battery life

Frequent use involving high speed driving and frequent deep discharge will shorten the battery life in the long run. Ultium battery technology benefits from advanced cooling and management systems that help reduce degradation over time, but there are some practices you can implement to extend its lifespan. This includes not charging the battery to 100 percent or regularly letting it drain to zero percent. Ideally, you should strive to keep it between 20 and 80 percent for daily use, as often as possible.

It is also highly recommended that you try using one Level one or two charger instead of a DC Level Three fast charger. Although more convenient, fast charging generates more heat, which can strain the battery over time. Additionally, you should try to store your Prologue in moderate temperatures, as extreme heat or cold will accelerate battery wear. It’s also a good practice to keep the software up to date, as manufacturers often release updates that improve battery efficiency and lifespan.

Honda’s warranty has you covered

The manufacturer will cover the costs if it is a workmanship issue

Honda offers a fairly comprehensive warranty package for the Prologue range, including basic cover of 36 months or 36,000 miles. You also get a 60-month or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty, while Honda covers all scheduled maintenance over a 24-month or 29,000-mile period.

There’s also 36 months or 36,000 miles of roadside assistance and a 36-month unlimited mileage corrosion warranty. The most important thing is that your battery pack is covered by a fair warranty extended warranty of eight years or 160,000 miles. This is not class leading, but meets industry standards.

This warranty ensures that if the battery capacity drops below a certain threshold, usually around 70 percent, Honda will repair or replace the battery at no charge to the owner. The warranty also covers material and manufacturing defects. However, this does not include damage caused by misuse, improper maintenance or external factors such as accidents. This warranty meets industry standards and provides peace of mind for EV owners, ensuring reliable performance during the early years of ownership.

Source: The EPA, JD powerAnd Recurring.