371 W. Patrick St. | Frederick, MD 21701

371 W. Patrick St. | Frederick, MD 21701

Frederick, MD How Often Should I Replace My Car’s Battery?

How Often Should I Replace My Car’s Battery?

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How Often Should I Replace My Car’s Battery?

Car batteries are the strong, resilient force behind every car. They do their job regardless of heat, cold weather, and the drivers who demand so much of them. We demand a lot from our car batteries, so it’s no surprise that eventually they will die, and we will need to replace them. But just how often should we replace them? Keep reading to find out. 

How Often Should I Replace My Cars Battery

Approximately How Long Do Car Batteries Last?

On average, a car battery lasts from five to seven years. However, car batteries last longer if the vehicle is driven daily and the battery kept fully charged. When the vehicle is parked for extended periods of time, the battery deteriorates faster. Additionally, the size of the battery will affect its lifespan. Larger batteries last longer. They have been known to last up to 10 years. 

 

How to Know if Your Car Battery Needs to Be Replaced

When the battery’s capacity becomes low, you might notice some telltale signs. 

 

Corrosion on the Connectors

The most obvious method to tell that your car battery is dying is to check its connectors. Look under the hood where the battery is connected to the terminals. If you see a blue-green powder or crystal-like substance caked on its terminals, it’s time to have your car battery replaced. Dead batteries can be cleaned or wiped off, but if your battery is leaking acid, it’s an obvious sign of issues. 

 

Dim Headlights

If your car battery is dead or dying, you will notice that your headlights are significantly dimmer. If they aren’t significantly dimmer, they will flicker. That’s because your battery is unable to power your car’s electrical components. Dim headlights are not only an annoyance; they’re also a safety hazard. Replace your car battery as soon as you can.

 

Clicking When You Turn the Key

Ignition clicks are usually one of three things: a bad starter, a bad alternator, or a bad battery. A dead or dying battery is the most common cause of clicking sounds when you try to start your car. Your battery creates a charge for the starter, which uses energy to crank the engine. When not enough energy is available for this process, there will be either a clicking sound when you turn the key or the engine will start very slowly. 

 

Need to Replace Your Car Battery? 

If your car needs a new battery, let Ken’s Automotive & Transmissions do it for you. Our technicians will be able to accurately assess your car’s battery and quickly replace it. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.