How Long Do Car Batteries Usually Last and Is It Time to Change?

Imagine getting into your car, ready to head to work, or out on an errand only to discover your car won’t start. 

Getting stuck with a dead battery is one of the many concerns car owners face, but how long do car batteries usually last anyway? How can you prepare and avoid this scenario?  

There are many factors that impact the life of a car battery, such as climate and driving use, but there are also signs you can spot early on.

Stick with us to learn more about your car battery, so you’ll know when it’s time to replace i


How Long Do Car Batteries Usually Last?


On average, car batteries should last somewhere between three to five years. That said, the way you use your car can influence the lifespan of your battery.
We’ll cover some tips to help extend the life of your battery, but first, let’s go over what can shorten a battery’s longevity.

What Impacts Battery Life?

Regardless of how often you drive your car or what kind of miles you’re putting on it, your car battery isn’t going to last forever. However, there are a few factors that can impact the lifespan of your car’s battery.

● Climate and extreme temperatures
● Driving time
● Leaving the lights on
● Condition of the alternator and drive belt
● Electrical demands

The climate where you live can have a huge impact on your battery. Both extreme heat and cold can cause a battery to crack.

The amount of time you spend driving your car also affects battery life. Leaving your car sitting in the driveway or taking a lot of short trips can cause your battery to die faster

Thankfully, there are ways to extend the life of your battery, and many of them are easy to follow.


When to Replace Your Battery

There are a few signs you can look for that indicate your battery is dying.

A slow-starting engine is one. If it seems like it’s taking a few seconds longer than it should for the engine to turn over, this could be a sign of a failing battery.

Electrical issues are another sign. You might notice your headlights are dimmer than usual, for instance. Plugging too many things into your car, like your phone, can drain the battery faster.
You might notice the check engine light. This can mean a lot of things, but it could also indicate your battery is running low.

A good way to keep an eye on your battery is to have your car battery voltage tested whenever you get your oil changed.

If your car is showing signs of a dying battery, it’s best to replace it sooner rather than later. Depending on the model of your car, you may need to use a battery conversions chart to ensure you’re buying the right type.

Don’t Run Out of Juice

So, how long do car batteries usually last? Between three to five years, but the factors listed above can impact that lifespan.

If your battery is showing signs of failure or it’s getting old, it’s time to replace your car battery. Make sure you do it soon, so you don’t wind up stranded with a dead battery.

For more auto tips, be sure to check out the other posts and resources on our site and check back often for all the latest news and advice.

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