The battery in your vehicle is one of the most crucial components, powering everything from starting your engine to running your vehicle’s electronics. However, like any part, it has a limited lifespan. Knowing when your battery needs replacing can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. Here’s what you need to know about monitoring and maintaining battery health.
How Long Does a Car Battery Last?
On average, a car battery for a combustion engine vehicle lasts between 3 to 5 years. Factors such as driving habits, weather conditions, and maintenance can influence its lifespan, as well as the quality of the battery and more. There are a number of ways to determine the quality of the battery and whether it’s close to the end of it’s life, including warning signs and battery testing:
Warning Signs Your Battery May Need Replacing
As with many issues that might arise in your vehicle, there are often warning signs that something isn’t quite right before it hits a breaking point. Signs that your battery could need replacing include:
- Slow Engine Crank – If your engine struggles to start or takes longer than usual to turn over, your battery may not be holding enough charge.
- Dim Lights and Electrical Issues – A failing battery can cause dim headlights or malfunctioning electrical components such as power windows, radio, or dashboard lights.
- Dashboard Warning Light – Many modern vehicles have a battery-shaped warning light on the dashboard that illuminates when there’s an issue with the charging system.
- Corroded Terminals or Leaks – Check for corrosion around the battery terminals. Leaking battery acid can also damage nearby components and is a clear sign your battery needs attention.
- Swollen Battery Case – Extreme heat or cold can cause the battery case to swell, which usually indicates internal damage.
- Old Age – If your battery is older than three years, have it tested regularly to ensure it’s still functioning effectively.
If you are seeing any of these signs, or your battery is nearing the end of it’s recommended life, you can also test the battery to see how it’s currently performing and functioning:
- Use a Multimeter: A simple multimeter can measure your battery’s voltage. A fully charged battery should read around 12.6 volts when the engine is off.
- Visit a Professional: Most garages offer battery health checks to assess its condition and capacity.
Tips for Extending Battery Life
As with any part of your vehicle, taking care of your battery can help to extend its lifespan and longevity. From adapting how you drive to taking care with keeping it clean, here’s what you can do:
- Drive Regularly: Short trips can prevent your battery from fully charging. Aim for occasional longer drives to keep it in good shape.
- Avoid Draining the Battery: Turn off lights, radio, and other electronics when the engine is off to prevent unnecessary drain.
- Keep It Clean: Regularly clean the terminals and ensure they’re free of corrosion for optimal performance.
- Check the Charging System: Ensure your alternator is functioning correctly to avoid overcharging or undercharging the battery.
If your battery consistently shows signs of wear or fails a professional test, it’s time to replace it. Replacing a battery before it completely dies is crucial to avoiding inconvenient breakdowns and potential damage to your vehicle’s electrical system.
At our garages, our mechanics can offer everything from battery testing to maintenance and replacement. Whether you need a quick check or a brand-new battery, our team is here to help. Contact us today to ensure your car’s battery is in top condition and ready for the road.