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Your car battery is the heart of your vehicle. When it doesn't work properly, nothing works properly. Batteries must be replaced at certain intervals to keep your vehicle working at its optimal levels. When should you replace your car battery?
Knowing When to Replace Your Battery
There are many factors that can impact the life of your car's battery. Knowing what to look for is the first step in keeping your car running. Below are things you should know about batteries:
- Age: look at the date stamp on your battery. This gives you an indication of the average lifespan of that particular battery. Keep in mind, the date stamp doesn't necessarily mean the battery will give out at that time.
- Time: Does your car sit idle for long periods of time? Is it used mainly for short trips? Both of these situations can shorten the life of your battery. Cars that are not started often still lose energy. Cars used only for short trips don't allow the battery to recharge fully.
- Extreme Temperatures: Cars that are driven in harsher climates may have shorter battery lives than what is stamped on the battery's covering.
- Loose Battery: If your battery isn't securely installed, the vibrations caused by a loose battery can cause it to break down quicker.
Recognizing Signs of a Weak Battery
There are indications your battery is about to die. Slow or no starts, dim headlights, your car backfiring, or you notice visible corrosion on your battery are all indicators you may need to replace your battery. When you see any of these, take your car to a certified mechanic to get a replacement installed. A mechanic can also check to see if your car has another issue causing the problems instead of a weak battery. You can also take your vehicle to prep for the extreme summer heat or winter cold. Taking care of your battery keeps you on the road.
If your car needs a replacement battery, bring your vehicle to Kaufman's Auto Repairs Inc. today for your maintenance needs.