The battery is one of the most integral components of any vehicle. Without it, the engine simply won’t be able to start, and it could cause interior electrics to malfunction too.
Unfortunately, when car batteries aren’t well-looked after they can create all sorts of problems for drivers. Here’s everything you need to know about the lifespan of a car battery and what you can do to preserve it.
How Long Do Car Batteries Last?
It’s common for most car batteries to last between three to five years. Factors like driving habits, climate, and onboard electronic usage can all impact the lifespan of your car battery. As a rule of thumb, try to get your battery tested regularly by a professional – especially if you’ve had your battery for three years or longer.
How Long Does a Car Battery Last Without Driving?
A brand-new battery that’s been fully charged and in good condition will usually take two or three months to completely lose power. Having said that, leaving your vehicle unused for that length of time isn’t recommended, as it can have a detrimental impact on the condition of the battery.
This is because when an engine is running, it powers the alternator, which then helps to charge the battery itself. Plus, leaving a car inactive for a long period of time can cause other external issues including deflated tyres, and corrosion.
How Long Can a Car Battery Sit Unused?
When a car battery has been removed from a vehicle, it will remain functional for up to six months. However, you should aim to charge it every 12 weeks or so if possible. Try to make sure you keep your disconnected battery in a safe, secure, and dry place too.
How Do You Keep a Car Battery From Dying?
Here’s a few tips to help prevent your car battery from draining:
- Try using a trickle charger or battery conditioner
- Avoid turning your car’s engine on and off regularly
- Short journeys should be avoided if possible, as this causes your battery to drain faster
- Driving for at least 15-20 minutes is recommended as this should be enough time for your battery to charge
- Don’t forget to turn off your car’s interior lighting system, as well as your headlights
How to Know if a Car Battery Needs to Be Replaced
It can be difficult to know for sure when your car battery needs replacing. So, here are some tell-tale signs to look out for:
- Does your car struggle to turn over? Perhaps you hear a strange noise? If so, then this may be a clear indicator that something isn’t quite right with your battery
- An old battery – between four or five years old – may need replacing sooner rather than later. It’s around this time when problems start to occur and it’s considered to be fairly old
- Keep an eye out for any battery warning lights on your dashboard
- If your car has been sat unused for a long time, bear in mind that it may have battery issues
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