our vehicle’s battery may be losing its drive for life. If you haven’t checked it lately, there’s no better time than now to have your car’s battery tested and potentially replaced. Here’s all you need to know about your vehicle’s battery and how to change it.
How Does a Car Battery Work? And Why Do They Fail in Cold Weather?
Batteries rely on chemical reactions to supply the current. Colder weather can slow down these reactions and eventually the batteries can’t supply enough current to keep up with the demand.
Cold batteries discharge faster than warm batteries. If you live in a colder climate where temperatures often fall below freezing, you should consider keeping your vehicle in a garage, insulating the battery, or even installing a trickle charger to keep it warm. If you’re simply storing a battery, keep it in a cooler location and later bring it to room temperature before installing it.
How Often Should You Test Your Car Battery?
- If your vehicle is straining to start, be sure to have your battery checked.
- Have your car’s battery tested every time you bring it in for routine maintenance, such as an oil change. Most shops will do it for free, so be sure to ask.
How Often Should You Replace Your Car Battery?
On average, car batteries tend to last around 3-5 years. The main differentiator between battery brands is the length of warranty, not quality. Have your car battery tested frequently to ensure it doesn’t fail, stranding you in an inconvenient spot. If an automotive shop is recommending a car battery replacement based only on a maintenance schedule, double check before approving it. Confirm your vehicle maintenance schedule online, or ask the technician to show you the results of your battery’s test.