How Often Should You Change Your Car Battery?
08
Apr,
2021
Winter is finally in the rearview mirror and summer is just around the corner. Spring is a good time to take an inventory of your vehicle and any issues that you may be noticing. Make sure your car is prepared for summer’s hot temperatures! If you have been keeping up with routine vehicle maintenance such as oil changes and tire rotations, all you may need as you head into summer is a car battery replacement. Because it’s often “out of sight, out of mind,” it’s easy to overlook this little black box hidden under the hood.
You may be wondering how often should you change your car battery? The issues below are pretty strong indicators that it may be time for a car battery replacement:
- The pace of the engine crank. If the engine “cranks” slower than usual, or not at all, it means that the power produced by the battery is not sufficient to start the engine.
- The power supply to electrical components. Lights may appear dimmer and electrical accessories work slower than usual.
- Swollen battery case. A failing alternator (possibly the voltage regulator) can overcharge the battery, build up hydrogen gas faster than the battery can use up, resulting in an over-heated battery and a possible swollen battery case.
Here six-car battery maintenance tips:
- Park in a Garage. Keep the battery warm and dry. Dirt and dampness can damage your battery case.
- Drive your vehicle regularly. Starting your vehicle occasionally if you don’t drive very often will help maintain a good level of charge in your battery.
- Keep it clean. Remove the clamps and clean away grease, dirt, and oxidation from the battery connections and battery tray.
- Add Distilled Water. If you have to add a little water occasionally to extend the life of your car battery, you may need to occasionally add a little water (use distilled water).
- Secure the Battery. If the battery is not fastened securely to the tray, it will vibrate excessively.
- Avoid jump-starting. Trying to jump-start a dead battery in today’s vehicles can damage electronics. Call an auto shop for assistance.
Note to remember: Batteries will only live so long. If they are getting between the three to five-year make, it may be time for a car battery replacement.
Need to know more about how often should you change your car battery? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Puleo’s Auto Clinic for more information about a car battery replacement and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Washington, NJ, and the surrounding areas.
Winter is finally in the rearview mirror and summer is just around the corner. Spring is a good time to take an inventory of your vehicle and any issues that you may be noticing. Make sure your car is prepared for summer’s hot temperatures! If you have been keeping up with routine vehicle maintenance such as oil changes and tire rotations, all you may need as you head into summer is a car battery replacement. Because it’s often “out of sight, out of mind,” it’s easy to overlook this little black box hidden under the hood.
You may be wondering how often should you change your car battery? The issues below are pretty strong indicators that it may be time for a car battery replacement:
- The pace of the engine crank. If the engine “cranks” slower than usual, or not at all, it means that the power produced by the battery is not sufficient to start the engine.
- The power supply to electrical components. Lights may appear dimmer and electrical accessories work slower than usual.
- Swollen battery case. A failing alternator (possibly the voltage regulator) can overcharge the battery, build up hydrogen gas faster than the battery can use up, resulting in an over-heated battery and a possible swollen battery case.
Here six-car battery maintenance tips:
- Park in a Garage. Keep the battery warm and dry. Dirt and dampness can damage your battery case.
- Drive your vehicle regularly. Starting your vehicle occasionally if you don’t drive very often will help maintain a good level of charge in your battery.
- Keep it clean. Remove the clamps and clean away grease, dirt, and oxidation from the battery connections and battery tray.
- Add Distilled Water. If you have to add a little water occasionally to extend the life of your car battery, you may need to occasionally add a little water (use distilled water).
- Secure the Battery. If the battery is not fastened securely to the tray, it will vibrate excessively.
- Avoid jump-starting. Trying to jump-start a dead battery in today’s vehicles can damage electronics. Call an auto shop for assistance.
Note to remember: Batteries will only live so long. If they are getting between the three to five-year make, it may be time for a car battery replacement.
Need to know more about how often should you change your car battery? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Puleo’s Auto Clinic for more information about a car battery replacement and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Washington, NJ, and the surrounding areas.
John Puleo
John Puleo 
