When to Replace the Battery of Your Car

by admin March 16, 2022

It’s advisable to replace your batteries before you run out of power, but if the battery isn’t dead yet, how do you know when it’s time to replace it? There is no one-size-fits-all answer to how long a battery will survive, but there are signs that it may be time to replace it. With this guide, you’ll learn how to spot a dying car battery, how the weather can impact yours, and when it’s time to replace it.

Signs That Your Car Battery is Running Out

With modern technology, cars are excellent at alerting you when something is wrong. The onboard computer uses sensors throughout the car to warn you through your dashboard when anything unusual is happening. If you’re having trouble with your battery, your car will have several signs, including the warning indicator on your dash:

• Engine Cranks Slowly: A slow-starting car engine or one that requires repeated attempts to start is a clear indication that your battery is nearing the end of its life.
• The Battery Case is Bloated and Misshapen: This commonly occurs when your battery has been overcharged or exposed to extreme temperatures. A bulging or unusually-shaped battery is a strong indicator you need to replace it.
• Leak in the Battery Fluid: If a car battery is overcharged or broken, it will leak, indicating that it is time to replace it.
• Battery Warning Light Illuminated: This light should not be disregarded if it is turned on. Many factors can cause your battery light to illuminate, but many of them hint at a problem with its charging system.

A trip to an auto repair shop is necessary if your car is exhibiting symptoms of a bad battery. However, just because you haven’t observed any of these indications doesn’t mean your car is without battery issues. Many things can deplete your battery, and their effects may not be apparent until it’s too late. Regular battery testing will help you avoid becoming stranded on the road.

End of Life Timeline for Most Car Batteries

No car battery can be used forever. The general belief is that you should replace a car battery every three years, although you may need one sooner.

Your battery’s lifespan can be influenced by factors such as your environment and driving habits, so you may need to replace it before the three-year mark. Follow the service interval recommended by the manufacturer to ensure you’re doing the battery replacement on time.

Consider Your Climate When Replacing a Car Battery

Climate, whether hot/humid or cold/dry, can have a negative impact on your battery. Extreme temperatures in either way will affect your battery differently, but the end result will be the same: a lower battery life.

When it’s extremely hot outside, you’re at risk of becoming dehydrated. The same may be said about your vehicle’s battery. Car batteries, like our bodies, rely on fluid to keep them flowing. Summer heat can cause water to evaporate from your car’s battery acid, thereby resulting in diminished performance, poor starting power, and shorter battery life.

Furthermore, high temperatures can harm your battery’s internal components. Corrosion becomes more likely and faster as the temperature rises and the water in your battery evaporates, and corrosion is a primary cause of battery problems.

Cold weather can also cause battery difficulties in the same way that hot weather can. When the temperature drops below freezing, your battery must work harder to create enough energy to keep your vehicle running properly. Cold weather can lead to heavier engine oil, putting additional demand on your battery.

Driving Habits Matter

The interval with which you must replace your battery depends on how you operate your automobile over time. If you frequently take short trips to a nearby store or school to pick up your children, then return home in a matter of minutes, your battery will not have enough time to fully charge between trips. This can result in a drop in performance.

Also, if your car remains in the garage or driveway for a long period of time, the battery will continue to drain passively. It will eventually need replacement, even though it saw little use.

McIlvain Motors Can Assist You

McIlvain Motors is the leading mechanic shop in Tempe, AZ, providing high-quality services using the best tools and equipment, managed by our qualified and competent professionals.

Because of our trustworthy services, we are the go-to mechanics for car owners in Chandler, Mesa, Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe, Arizona.

For the best service for your car, contact us immediately. We look forward to repairing and maintaining your car. Give us a call or come in to talk with one of our helpful staff now.