Your car battery is a basic piece of equipment that we all tend to take for granted – until it doesn't work! Most car batteries will last an average of 4 to 6 years, depending on the quality. The longevity of the batter is also affected by extremes of temperature, engine vibration, and any after-market items that have been added that need access to the battery.
The most proactive approach that you can take to your battery is to request to have it ‘load tested' when your car is in the shop for other reasons. The load test is much more than just checking if the battery is charged – it puts the battery under the same conditions as if the starter of your car was actually using the battery to start the car. This give a much more accurate "picture" of the true state of your battery and whether or not you need to replace it. Any battery that falls below the measurement of 9.5 volts should be replaced.
If your car battery is not tested regularly and not replaced when recommended, you may experience issues such as your car taking a while to turn over, or it may not start at all! While using jumper cables can temporarily resolve the problem, once your battery has reached a certain point it will no longer hold a charge. Also, keep in mind that other systems may be brought under pressure by trying to keep a faulty battery charged, and items like the alternator can fail as well.
Let us check out your battery to see if it needs to be replaced – and escape the troubles caused by a faulty battery!
Not sure if your car is in good shape for the fall/winter season? Book a free wellness check today!