How Long Should A New Car Battery Last?

Did you know that the average lifespan of a car battery is between three and five years? While some batteries can last longer, it’s around this time that you might start to notice a decrease in performance. Here are five ways to boost your car battery’s longevity.

1. Drive regularly

If you only use your car for short trips or don’t drive for weeks on end, your battery may not get enough time to recharge, resulting in a breakdown of the electrolyte solution. This can lead to poor performance and ultimately reduce your battery’s lifespan. Therefore, it’s important to regularly go on long drives to keep the battery healthy.

2. Remove corrosion

Battery terminal corrosion is a common issue that can affect any car battery. The formation of this dry, crumbly substance can slowly drain your battery, reducing its lifespan. Once a month, use a wire brush to gently remove any crud from the terminals to keep your battery in top shape.

3. Don’t overuse accessories

Using accessories like the radio or exterior and interior lights when your car isn’t running can shorten your vehicle’s battery life. Make sure to turn off all electronics before exiting your vehicle to help prevent parasitic battery drain.

4. Avoid extreme temperatures

Both sweltering heat and freezing cold can shorten your car battery’s life. While heat can cause your battery fluid to evaporate, cold temperatures cause the battery fluid to freeze. Whenever possible, park your vehicle in the shade during the summer and keep it stored in a garage in winter to protect it from the elements.

5. Test your battery often

Regularly test your car’s battery to prevent unexpected failures and ensure your car is always ready to go. At Minit-Tune & Brake Auto Centres, we offer battery and charging system checks. One of our mechanics will inspect the condition of the terminals and the case, perform a load test on the battery, and test the charging system. We’ll also assess your alternator belts for wear as well as the connections and mounting of your battery .

Although easy to forget, car battery maintenance is just as important as getting routine oil changes and wheel alignments.

Auto and battery repair services in Vancouver

Whether your car’s charging system is acting up or you think your battery may be nearing the end of its lifespan, bring it to the team at Minit-Tune & Brake Auto Centres. Our technicians are trained and equipped to diagnose any problem and quickly repair or replace your battery to get you back on the road. Contact us today to make an appointment in the Vancouver area or Alberta.