So my IMA & check engine light came on last Friday. Took it to the dealer Saturday & they ran some diagnostics & said I need a new battery at $3500.

So I have been trying to look at options & figured I would ask for input.

- Will the car function if I let the IMA die? I've heard yes, but I will have to replace the 12V frequently.

- What are the stats on how long a replacement battery will last? It is only warrantied for 36K miles & I don't want to have to keep throwing $3500 at the car.

- I've read about recharging/repairing the battery & do not feel comfortable attempting this.

- I found a shop Mile Hybrid Automotive (I am in CO) that says they have a better battery & will install for $2500. They said these batteries have been on the road for about 3 years & someone in NY used to install them & they have had no failures so far. The warranty is 12K, but for $250 they will do a 36K warranty. Anyone know anything about this battery & is this a good idea?

I am also considering selling the car or doing a trade.

Also, this morning the check engine light went off & the car was driving normal. It kept auto-stopping, which I was trying to prevent because if the battery is going bad I don't want it to use it so much. I assume the light went off because the battery temporarily had more power, not because the problem is fixed.

Any advice would be helpful. Thanks!