How Often Should A Car Battery Be Replaced?
The old saying, “Out of sight, out of mind” is often true when it relates to car batteries. Unfortunately, many drivers forget to check the condition of their car battery until one day, their car doesn’t start and they find themselves waiting for a tow to the nearest auto shop.
So if you’re wondering how often should a car battery be replaced, you can consider the manufacturer’s guidelines. But typically, car batteries last from three years and possibly up to five years under “normal” driving conditions. However, if you drive under “severe” conditions and put stress on your battery, that time will be shortened. Just remember that when a battery reaches the four-year mark, it can become completely unreliable. It is wise to consider a car battery replacement before you are left stranded somewhere.
Most batteries have an expected lifespan that is published by the manufacturer. But there are some things that may help it last a little longer:
- Avoid Short Rides. Short rides don’t give enough time for a battery to become fully charged so driving more frequently and for longer periods of time.
- Tighten Battery Connections. A loose battery that is not tightened can vibrate, causing damage to the circuits or inside the engine.
- Turn Off Lights-Shut the Door. Leaving headlights on overnight or leaving the door open with the interior light on can completely drain the battery’s charge.
- Keep the Terminals Clean. Keep any corrosion from building up on the terminals.
- Test Voltage. Frequently testing the output voltage will keep you aware of its condition.
- Turn Off Accessories. Turn off electrical accessories (such as the radio or air conditioner) when idling or the motor is turned off.
- Regular Tune-Ups. When the spark plugs are clean and the motor is running smoothly, the battery doesn’t have to work as hard.
- Storing Your Vehicle. Keeping your vehicle in a warm dry place helps the battery last longer.
Remember: Have the strength of your battery checked each time you visit your auto shop for other services.
Have more questions about how often should a car battery be replaced? Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about a car battery replacement and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.
The old saying, “Out of sight, out of mind” is often true when it relates to car batteries. Unfortunately, many drivers forget to check the condition of their car battery until one day, their car doesn’t start and they find themselves waiting for a tow to the nearest auto shop.
So if you’re wondering how often should a car battery be replaced, you can consider the manufacturer’s guidelines. But typically, car batteries last from three years and possibly up to five years under “normal” driving conditions. However, if you drive under “severe” conditions and put stress on your battery, that time will be shortened. Just remember that when a battery reaches the four-year mark, it can become completely unreliable. It is wise to consider a car battery replacement before you are left stranded somewhere.
Most batteries have an expected lifespan that is published by the manufacturer. But there are some things that may help it last a little longer:
- Avoid Short Rides. Short rides don’t give enough time for a battery to become fully charged so driving more frequently and for longer periods of time.
- Tighten Battery Connections. A loose battery that is not tightened can vibrate, causing damage to the circuits or inside the engine.
- Turn Off Lights-Shut the Door. Leaving headlights on overnight or leaving the door open with the interior light on can completely drain the battery’s charge.
- Keep the Terminals Clean. Keep any corrosion from building up on the terminals.
- Test Voltage. Frequently testing the output voltage will keep you aware of its condition.
- Turn Off Accessories. Turn off electrical accessories (such as the radio or air conditioner) when idling or the motor is turned off.
- Regular Tune-Ups. When the spark plugs are clean and the motor is running smoothly, the battery doesn’t have to work as hard.
- Storing Your Vehicle. Keeping your vehicle in a warm dry place helps the battery last longer.
Remember: Have the strength of your battery checked each time you visit your auto shop for other services.
Have more questions about how often should a car battery be replaced? Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about a car battery replacement and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.
