Can I use a solar battery charger while my car is parked for three weeks?
I have to leave my 2023 Mazda 2 Hybrid at an uncovered carpark for just over three weeks. Can you recommend a good quality solar panel trickle charger that would stop my 12v battery going flat? What power output would it need? Preferably it would plug into the in-car power point but if that is not possible with this car, and it came with crocodile clips, how would I route the cables from the interior of the car to the charging point in the fuse box under the bonnet?
Asked on 23 March 2026 by Ron Baker
Answered by
David Ross
We would suggest looking at chargers from PV Logic, Topsolar or NUZAMAS, or you could try an accessory store such as Halfords which has several different offerings. To counter any losses a solar trickle charger could need as little as 0.5 amps, and many of these devices such as the PV Logic 8W Battery Maintainer come with clips for direct connection to the battery as well as a 12V accessory connector.
If you cover no more than 100 miles per day and have easy access to a charging point at home or work, then an EV is ideal for you.
Is an electric car right for me?Similar questions
Can I have my hybrid hardwired safely with a solar charger to keep 12 volt battery charged as I don't do enough mileage to maintain it. I park on public highway so cannot charge it conventionally and ...
My son is thinking of buying a Toyota Yaris Cross which may be left in storage for some months at a time. No electric supply will be available. Can this damage the drive battery or accessory battery?
As I will only be doing short infrequent journeys should I buy a solar battery trickle charger. If so which is best and easiest to connect please. Possibly not connecting to the battery terminals. Will...
Related models
.jpg?width=115&height=75&rmode=crop)
Looks great in hatchback and saloon form. Premium interior with excellent standard specification. Fun to drive with excellent manual and automatic gearboxes.
Elsewhere on 
