Vehicles rely on their batteries to start the engine and power other electrical accessories like the lights, radio, and windshield wipers. However, like any other battery, automobile batteries ultimately wear out and need to be swapped out for new ones.
This article will discuss the average lifespan of a car battery, variables that shorten or lengthen its usefulness, and steps you can take to get the most out of your battery.
An automobile battery has an average lifespan of three (3) to five (5) years. However, the battery’s quality, the vehicle’s age, and the owner’s driving habits are just a few of the elements that might affect the battery’s life expectancy.
| Type of Electric Battery | Average Lifespan (in Years) |
|---|---|
| Lithium-Ion | 8-10 |
| Lithium Iron Phosphate | 10-15 |
| Nickel-Cadmium (NiCad) | 1-2 |
| Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) | 2-3 |
| Alkaline | 5-10 |
Note: The lifespan of a car battery can vary based on factors such as usage, climate, and maintenance. This table provides an average lifespan for each type of battery. It is always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s specifications for specific information on a battery’s lifespan.
A car battery’s lifespan can affect by a variety of factors. Among the most typical are:
Batteries often live longer than their less expensive counterparts. A battery’s cold cranking amp (CCA) rating determines its performance in cold conditions; consequently, search for a high CCA rating.
Batteries in older cars may be more likely to die prematurely due to general wear and tear.
If you often travel short distances, the battery’s lifespan may limit. Using the radio or heater regularly might shorten the battery’s life.
Excessively hot or very cold conditions can reduce a car battery’s lifespan.
To keep your car running for longer, you may do a few things to assist in taking care of the battery:
- The battery in your car has to be clean. Battery terminals can become clogged with dirt and grease, preventing them from receiving a charge.
- Remove residue from the terminals by cleaning them with baking soda and water.
- It is best to combine errands or plan longer journeys for regular travel on small distances to allow your battery to charge fully.
- When you aren’t driving your car for an extended period, a battery maintainer can assist in keeping it charged.
- Store your car in a garage to protect the batteries from freezing or scorching temperatures.
- If you adhere to these guidelines, your car battery should last you for many more starts.
Warning signals of a dying car battery might appear as its useful life winds down. In general, you should be aware of the following symptoms:
- Weak or non-existent engine starting ability Flickering or dimming headlights
- The car’s electrical systems are malfunctioning, and the battery warning light is on.
- Whether you notice any of these symptoms, you should get your car’s battery tested to see if it needs to replace.
If it turns out that you need a new battery for your car, here are some things you may do to prepare for the swap:
As previously said, higher-quality batteries tend to last longer and perform better. Get the most out of your money, get a battery with a high CCA rating and a long guarantee.
To avoid any electrical issues, the old battery’s terminals must unplug before installing the new one.
Following the new battery’s installation instructions is important because each vehicle has a slightly different procedure. If you need more time to replace the battery, a professional can help.
To avoid environmental damage, the old battery should properly dispose of. Many car parts retailers and service facilities recycle old batteries.
To keep your car running for longer, you may do a few things to assist in taking care of the battery:
- A dirty vehicle battery won’t charge correctly, so regularly clean the terminals where the cable connects to the battery. Remove residue from the terminals by cleaning them with baking soda and water.
- In the case of regular travel on small distances, it is best to combine errands or plan longer journeys to allow your battery to charge fully.
- You will only be using your car for a short length of time. A battery maintainer can help keep the battery charged.
- Try parking your vehicle to keep the batteries from being exposed to freezing or scorching conditions.
- You can change your car’s battery if you’re confident in your abilities. However, the new battery must be placed correctly, so be sure to read and follow the directions that came with it. A mechanic can replace the battery if you need more confidence in doing it yourself.
Knowing what causes a car battery to die early might help you take preventative measures to ensure your car always has a good starting battery. You should get your battery a test, which may be changed if there are any warning indications of it failing before you find yourself stuck.