Kids love the Power Wheels Jeep Hurricane for its rugged look and outdoor performance. But if you’re a parent, you may notice the battery often runs out before your child is ready to stop playing. Upgrading the battery is one of the easiest ways to make this ride-on toy more fun, reliable, and long-lasting. Here’s a practical guide to help you understand battery upgrades, how to do them safely, and what benefits to expect.
Why Upgrade The Power Wheels Jeep Hurricane Battery?
The standard 12V battery that comes with the Jeep Hurricane is usually enough for young children and short rides. But there are some real downsides:
- Run time is often just 45–60 minutes per charge.
- Charge time can take 12–18 hours for a full battery.
- As batteries age, run time drops even more.
With a battery upgrade, you can:
- Double or triple run time for longer play sessions.
- Increase speed (with proper upgrades).
- Reduce waiting between charges.
- Replace aging or weak batteries for better reliability.
Parents often find that a battery upgrade is the cheapest way to add value to a toy their kids already love.
Popular Battery Upgrade Options
Not every battery works for every upgrade. Here are the most common choices for the Jeep Hurricane:
| Battery Type | Voltage | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock SLA | 12V | Easy to replace, safe | Short run time, heavy |
| Upgraded SLA | 12V or 18V | Longer play, simple swap | Still heavy, limited speed gain |
| Lithium (LiFePO4) | 12V or 18V | Lightweight, longer life | Higher cost, needs care |
- Upgraded SLA (sealed lead acid) batteries with more amp hours give longer run time. For example, a 12V 12Ah battery may give up to twice the play time of the stock 12V 9.5Ah.
- Lithium batteries offer the biggest jump in performance and life. They’re much lighter and hold a charge longer, but require some wiring changes and protection circuits for safety.
How To Upgrade The Battery: Step-by-step
Upgrading a battery is simple, but safety is key. Here’s how to do a typical swap:
- Choose the right battery: Make sure the new battery fits in the compartment and matches the voltage (12V or 18V). Do not use car batteries—they are unsafe for toys.
- Disconnect the old battery: Unplug the main connector and remove the battery. Label the wires if needed.
- Install the new battery: Secure it so it doesn’t move around. Use foam or zip ties if necessary.
- Connect the wires: Red to red (positive), black to black (negative). If using a different connector, buy an adapter or cut and crimp new connectors.
- Add a fuse: Use a 30A fuse for safety. Many upgrades forget this—a fuse protects your toy and your child.
- Test the Jeep: Before letting kids drive, check everything works and look for any heat or strange smells.
- Charge properly: Use a charger designed for your battery type. Never use a 12V charger on an 18V battery.
Practical tip: If you’re upgrading to lithium, always use a charger and battery with a built-in Battery Management System (BMS). This prevents overcharging and fire risk.
What To Expect After Upgrading
A battery upgrade changes how your Jeep Hurricane works. Here’s what parents and kids usually notice:
- Run time: Can increase from 1 hour up to 2–3 hours, depending on the battery.
- Speed: With an 18V setup, the Jeep can go faster (up to 7 mph), but this puts more strain on the motors.
- Weight: Lithium batteries make the Jeep lighter, easier for younger kids to drive.
- Charging: Better batteries often charge faster, especially lithium types.
But there are a few things to watch out for:
- Motor heat: Higher voltage batteries can heat up the stock motors. If you upgrade voltage, consider upgrading the motors and gears too.
- Warranty: Battery upgrades may void the Power Wheels warranty.
- Safety: Never leave charging unattended. Store spare batteries in a cool, dry place.
Comparing Stock Vs Upgraded Battery Performance
Let’s see the difference in performance between the original and upgraded options:
| Setup | Run Time | Max Speed | Charge Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock 12V SLA | 45–60 mins | 5 mph | 12–18 hrs |
| 12V 12Ah SLA | 90–120 mins | 5 mph | 12–18 hrs |
| 18V SLA | 60–90 mins | 7 mph | 12–18 hrs |
| 12V LiFePO4 | 120–150 mins | 5 mph | 4–5 hrs |
Mistakes To Avoid
Many parents make the same errors on their first battery upgrade:
- Ignoring the fuse or using too high a fuse rating.
- Not securing the battery—loose batteries can damage wiring.
- Using mismatched chargers—this can ruin batteries or cause fires.
- Upgrading voltage but not checking motor or gear strength.
Non-obvious insight: Even with a stronger battery, the toy’s wiring and switches may not handle extra power. If you upgrade voltage, check all connections for heat after the first few uses.
Where To Find Quality Batteries
Quality matters. Cheap batteries don’t last and may be unsafe. Trusted brands include Mighty Max, Power Sonic, and Dakota Lithium. Buy from hobby shops, battery stores, or official dealers. For detailed specs and safety info, check the Wikipedia page on sealed lead acid batteries.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading the Power Wheels Jeep Hurricane battery can turn a short play session into hours of fun. It’s a smart way to breathe new life into a favorite toy. Just remember to match your battery to your child’s age and play style, follow safety steps, and check wiring and fuses. With a little planning, your backyard will be the hottest spot in the neighborhood.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does A Battery Upgrade Last?
A good upgrade can give you 1.5 to 3 hours of run time, depending on battery size and type. Lithium batteries usually last longer than SLA.
Is It Safe To Use An 18v Battery In The Jeep Hurricane?
It can be safe if you add a fuse and monitor motor heat. But it may wear out the motors faster. Only use 18V if you’re ready to upgrade other parts later.
What Charger Should I Use For An Upgraded Battery?
Always use a charger made for your battery type and voltage. For lithium batteries, only use chargers with protection circuits.
Will Upgrading The Battery Void My Warranty?
Yes, changing the battery from the original type can void the Power Wheels warranty. Consider this before upgrading.
Can I Install The Battery Upgrade Myself?
Most parents can do this with basic tools and patience. Follow all instructions, double-check wiring, and never skip the fuse for safety.
