How Long Does It Take to Charge a 6v, 12, or 24 Volt Ride-On Toy?

Published: 19.8.21

Updated: 8.8.24

How long does it take to charge ride-on toys? This is a question that many people have when they are looking at different ride-on toy options.

There are ride-ons for children, adults, and even pets, believe it or not?

It can be hard to know which one would be the best option for you or your child.

In this article, we'll go over how long each of these ride-on toys takes to charge so that you can make an informed decision about what charging method is right for you. 

The length of time it takes to charge a kid's electric car battery depends on the voltage.

The very first time you charge a new battery, it will take longer than the next charge.

This is because the battery has to be conditioned and there will need to be more charging cycles before it reaches its peak performance level.

The ride-on toy batteries come in different voltages, so you should check which one your ride-on toy needs!

This article will provide the approximate values of charge. However, we strongly suggest that you read the instructions that come with the ride-on toy as some of them may vary.

To charge a 6-volt battery, it should be charged for 10 hours followed by regular charging of 6 hours.

For 12v batteries, the first charge should last for 10 hours with regular charging at 8-10 hours.

For 24v batteries, which are more efficient than their smaller cousins, 10 hours of charging (both the first and all subsequent charges) are enough.

As you can see, there's a theme here. The 10-hour charge is the average for the ride-on toy batteries.

Related: Here's How You Know If Your Ride-On Car Is Charging

Ride-On Toy Charging Time Summary:

6v Powered Toys: Initial charge 10 hours. Regular charge approximately 6 hours.

12v Powered Toys: Initial charge 10 hours. Regular charge approximately 10 hours.

24v Powered Toys: Initial charge 18 hours. Regular charge approximately 10 hours.

The length of time it takes a battery to charge also depends on how much power the car needs and what terrain it is driving on.

6v batteries will usually last 45-60 minutes depending on the power requirements of the installed motor. 12v batteries are very similar.

Some 24-volt battery-operated toys run for 1hr to 1hr 30mins (these times will vary depending on the terrain).

Most 24v vehicles use lower power 12v motors, which make them more energy-efficient and extend battery life.

The best way to maximise riding time is by investing in a spare battery or two and making sure that you keep all batteries charged at full capacity.

You might find this article helpful - How Long Does it Take to Charge a 6 Volt 4.5 Ah Lead Acid Battery?

What Happens If I Over-Charge?

Over-charging can lead to serious problems for ride-on toy batteries, and the effects can vary depending on the battery type.

Most ride-on toys use either lead-acid or lithium-ion batteries, each with its own charging characteristics and sensitivities.

Lead-Acid Batteries

Lead-acid batteries are the most common type found in ride-on toys. These batteries are sensitive to both overcharging and environmental conditions:

• Overcharging: If a lead-acid battery is overcharged, it can lead to water loss through electrolysis, plate corrosion, and in extreme cases, battery swelling or even explosion due to excessive gas buildup.
• Temperature sensitivity: Lead-acid batteries are particularly vulnerable to extreme temperatures. Heat accelerates chemical reactions and can cause faster self-discharge, while cold temperatures reduce the battery's capacity.

To protect lead-acid batteries:

• Use a charger with automatic shut-off to prevent overcharging
• Store the toy indoors when not in use to avoid temperature extremes
• Charge the battery after each use to prevent sulfation, a common cause of battery failure.

Lithium-Ion Batteries

Some newer or higher-end ride-on toys may use lithium-ion batteries.

While these are generally more resilient than lead-acid batteries, they still require proper care:

• Overcharging: Modern lithium-ion batteries typically have built-in protection circuits to prevent overcharging. However, using an incompatible or faulty charger can still lead to problems.
• Temperature sensitivity: While more tolerant of temperature variations than lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion batteries still perform best at room temperature. Extreme heat can degrade the battery, while charging in very cold conditions can lead to permanent capacity loss.

For lithium-ion batteries:

• Always use the manufacturer-provided charger
• Avoid leaving the toy in direct sunlight or extremely cold environments
• If possible, store the battery at around 40% charge if not used for extended periods

Regardless of battery type, it's crucial to follow the manufacturer's charging instructions and use the correct charger for your specific ride-on toy.

Regular charging habits and proper storage can significantly extend the life of your toy's battery and ensure safe operation.

Safety Precautions When Charging Ride-On Toy Batteries

When charging batteries for ride-on toys, it's crucial to prioritise safety to prevent accidents and extend the battery's lifespan.

Here are some essential safety precautions to follow:

Proper Handling and Charging Environment

• Always charge batteries in a well-ventilated area away from flammable materials.
• Keep the charging area dry and free from moisture to prevent electrical hazards.
• Ensure children and pets cannot access the battery or charger during the charging process.
• Never charge the battery if it shows signs of damage, such as swelling, leaking, or a cracked casing.

Avoiding Overcharging

• Use only the charger provided by the manufacturer or a compatible replacement recommended by them.
• Never leave the battery charging overnight or for extended periods unattended.
• Invest in a charger with an automatic shut-off feature to prevent overcharging.
• Unplug the charger once the battery is fully charged, typically indicated by a green light or as specified in the user manual.

Safe Storage Practices

• Store batteries at room temperature (around 20°C or 68°F) when not in use.
• If storing for long periods, maintain the battery charge at about 40-50% to prevent degradation.
• Keep batteries away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Store batteries in a non-conductive container to prevent short circuits.

Regular Maintenance

• Inspect the battery and charger regularly for signs of wear or damage.
• Clean battery terminals with a dry cloth to remove any dirt or corrosion.
• If using lead-acid batteries, check water levels periodically and top up with distilled water if necessary.

Emergency Preparedness

• Keep a Class C fire extinguisher nearby for electrical fires.
• In case of battery overheating or swelling, immediately disconnect the charger and move the battery to a safe, non-flammable area.
• If a battery catches fire, do not use water to extinguish it. Use a Class C fire extinguisher or baking soda.

By following these safety precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure the longevity of your ride-on toy's battery.

Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for specific safety instructions related to your particular model.

Should I Purchase A Spare Battery?

We recommend purchasing a spare ride-on toy battery to maximise ride time.

This is because the ride-on toys have a limited power supply and they will be depleted over time with frequent use.

A spare ride on toy battery can also enable you to recharge the other sooner than expected which means your child will be able to play for a longer period of time and ride more.

The best thing about ride-on toy batteries is that they are interchangeable, meaning you can buy any ride-on toy battery to replace the one in your ride-on toy with ease.

If you're not sure how to do this, please check with the retailer you purchased the toy from.

A spare ride-on toy battery should be kept charged at all times so that it's ready when needed!

Related: Insider's Look: How Toy Car Batteries Are Made

Do I Need To Condition My Battery?

Yes, batteries should be conditioned to ensure peak performance.

The ride-on toy battery should be fully charged and then discharged completely before the next charge cycle (or a maximum of three discharge cycles).

This allows the ride-on toy battery to calibrate itself so that when it needs power, it will know how much is left in your ride-on toys' batteries.

Related: How Long Do Lithium-ion Batteries Last?

How Will I Know When To Charge?

Knowing when to charge your ride-on toy's battery is crucial for maintaining its performance and longevity.

Here are some indicators and tips to help you determine the right time to charge:

Battery Level Indicators

• Power Meter: Some advanced ride-on toys come equipped with a power meter or battery level indicator. These visual displays provide a clear indication of the remaining charge.
• LED Lights: Certain models use LED lights that change color or blink patterns to signify battery status.

Performance-Based Signs

If your ride-on toy doesn't have a built-in indicator, watch for these performance cues:

• Reduced Speed: When the battery is low, the toy will noticeably slow down.
• Decreased Power: The toy may struggle on inclines or have difficulty starting.
• Intermittent Operation: The toy might stop and start unexpectedly.

Proactive Charging Habits

• Regular Use: For frequently used toys, establish a routine of charging after each use or at the end of the day.
• Occasional Use: If the toy is used infrequently, charge it at least once a month to prevent battery degradation.

Troubleshooting Charging Issues

If you're experiencing problems with charging, consider these common issues and solutions:

1. Charger Not Working:

   • Check if the charger is properly plugged into both the toy and the wall outlet.
   • Inspect the charger for any visible damage to the cord or connectors.
   • Try a different wall outlet to rule out power supply issues.

2. Battery Not Holding Charge:

   • Ensure the battery is securely connected within the toy.
   • Check for corrosion on battery terminals and clean if necessary.
   • If the battery is old, it may need replacement.

3. Incomplete Charging:

   • Verify that you're using the correct charger for your specific model.
   • Allow sufficient time for a full charge (refer to the user manual for charging times).
   • Ensure the charging process isn't being interrupted by power fluctuations.

4. Overheating During Charging:

   • Stop charging immediately and allow the battery to cool down.
   • Check for any obstructions in the toy's ventilation areas.
   • If the problem persists, the battery or charger may be faulty and require replacement.

5. Charger Light Not Illuminating:

   • Ensure all connections are secure.
   • If using an extension cord, try plugging directly into a wall outlet.
   • The charger might need replacement if it's not functioning properly.

By paying attention to these indicators and addressing charging issues promptly, you can ensure your ride-on toy remains powered and ready for action.

If problems persist, consult the manufacturer's support or a qualified technician for further assistance.

Should I Remove The Battery After I Have Charged It?

There's really no need to remove ride-on toy batteries after charging.

If ride-on toys are stored for a long period of time, then yes, we would encourage you to remove the battery. However, it's still important to charge the battery regularly to ensure ride-on toy performance.

Note: Always refer to the instruction booklet your ride on came with. This is because ride-on toys may vary in regards to time of charge etc.

Is There a Warranty on the Batteries?

Oftentimes there is no warranty on ride-on toy batteries.

Some of them will come with a warranty and those are usually for one year or less while others may have an extended warranty depending on where you purchase the ride-on toy battery from.

You should always check the specifications when buying ride-on toy batteries to ensure that there is coverage in case something goes wrong.

If you're not sure, contact the ride-on toy battery company to find out how they deal with complaints and their warranty coverage!

Wrapping Up

Thanks for taking the time to read this guide on ride-on toy battery time and how to make sure your ride-on is charged properly.

We hope that more parents will invest the time to read this and know how to charge ride-on toys.

This will ensure that your ride-on toy battery lasts a long time and maximise the ride time and also increase the enjoyment your child has with their new toy.!

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us anytime on email hello@riiroo.com.