How Long Does a Car Battery Last
A car battery typically lasts 3-5 years before it needs to be replaced. However, different factors like weather and driving habits can affect a battery’s lifespan.
In this car battery guide, our team at Faulkner Toyota Harrisburg will give you the rundown on this vital automotive part. We’ll go over some signs of a failing battery, along with tips on how to make it last for as long as possible.
Read through the information below and contact us if you need service near Harrisburg, Mechanicsburg, or Carlisle.
Signs a Car Battery Is Failing
There are several warning signs that’ll indicate a car battery is on its way out. These include:
- Slow engine crank: If the car is slow to start, and it’s not an especially cold day, then the battery might be dying.
- Low battery fluid level: You should be able to see fluid inside the battery’s clear case. If not, then you may need to replace the battery sooner rather than later.
- Dimming lights: The battery not only starts the engine, but it also powers the lights. If any of the inside or outside lights aren’t shining as brightly as normal, then there’s perhaps an issue with the battery.
- Warning light on the dashboard: You may see an image of a battery light up on your car’s dashboard. The issue may not be with the battery specifically, but you’ll still want to get it check out as soon as possible.
How to Increase Battery Life
While the above signs indicate a failing battery, there are ways to combat this process. In fact, overall proper car battery care can greatly extend its lifespan.
You’ll want to keep up with routine maintenance, and make sure the battery is checked each time. Plus, regular service will help prevent other vehicle components from straining the battery.
Additionally, we mentioned before that your driving habits can affect how long car batteries last. That’s why you’ll want to drive your vehicle frequently on longer trips. If you drive just a couple miles a day, the battery will never get a chance to fully charge, which can drain it quickly. If you have a short commute or work from home, it’s recommended to take the car on a long drive at least once a week.
We also mentioned that the battery powers the lights inside your car. It actually runs all the electronics, including the radio and heating/cooling system. If the car is switched off, you’ll want to turn everything else off, as well. This includes unplugging any phone chargers or other cables. Otherwise, the battery can drain quicker, resulting in premature failure.
Schedule a Battery Repair or Replacement Today
If the battery isn’t at peak performance, then bring your car to the Faulkner Toyota Harrisburg Service Center. Our experienced technicians will look at the battery and determine if it needs a simple repair or a complete replacement.
Don’t wait. Schedule service at our Toyota dealership near Harrisburg, Mechanicsburg, and Carlisle today!