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Car and truck batteries wear out over time and need to be replaced, usually every 3–5 years. This large span in estimated battery life is due to differences in climate and driving style. Batteries driven in mild climates will generally last longer than those driven in extreme heat or cold, and the constant starts and stops of urban traffic are also harder on a car battery than the more consistent speeds of the open road.
How often should I get my battery checked?
It is recommended that you get your car battery tested at least twice per year. Doing so will help keep you from getting stranded due to a dead battery.
In addition to these bi-annual checkups on your car battery’s health, you should also have your battery checked if your car is slow to crank, or the battery or alternator dashboard lights stay on after you've started the car or come on while you're driving. These usually indicate that the battery is running down.
What can I do to help extend the life of my car’s battery?
Besides time and the usage pattern of your vehicle, there are two other main factors that affect the lifespan of the battery: heat and vibration.
If you live in a hot climate, check periodically to make sure that any heat shields installed by the vehicle manufacturer are still intact. If they are broken or damaged, you can help prolong battery life by getting them replaced.
To avoid excessive vibration, it’s important that the proper hold-down hardware is installed. Our battery experts will let you know if your battery is lose and needs reinforcement.
Want to see where your battery stands? Click the button below to schedule a battery check at your nearest Big O Tires store.
