Battery replacement is one of many things that come to mind when most car owners consider maintaining their vehicles. But it’s an important aspect that should never be ignored. A healthy battery is essential to keep your ride running smoothly and efficiently and ensure the vehicle’s electrical system works properly. Most batteries are built to perform for a long time and withstand adverse weather conditions. But they don’t last forever.
So, how often should you change your vehicle’s battery? Continue reading this guide by our Champion Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram FIAT team to find out.
Under normal conditions, a vehicle’s battery can last for four years on average. However, this is hardly the case in the real world, as many factors can affect the battery lifespan. These include:
Vibrations: The shaking of the battery as the vehicle moves can loosen the internal connections, reducing the battery life.
Extreme Temperatures: Abnormally high temperatures can cause the liquid electrolyte in the battery to evaporate and lead to the formation of sulfur on the plates. Cold temperatures can also slow down the chemical reactions that generate power in the battery, affecting its performance.
Cold Starts: The battery can die sooner than expected if the driver is fond of making cold starts (starting the car when its engine temperature is lower than the surrounding temperature).
Short Trips: Starting a car takes a lot of electrical power. So, the battery replenishes lost energy after each start with the help of the alternator. Going on frequent short trips can damage the battery as it may prevent the battery from having enough time to recharge.
Using Too Many Devices: The more accessories and aftermarket systems your vehicle has, the more power it draws from the battery. With time, the battery would lose its ability to recharge, shortening its life.
Driving Style: The owner’s driver style plays a role, too. For example, your battery can die sooner if you tend to brake suddenly or always have your foot on the accelerator.
If your battery has no electricity and can no longer start your vehicle, it’s time to get a replacement. However, a flat battery only sometimes means that the battery is gone. It can also be due to an issue with the car’s electrical system. You may want to get a battery tester to know for sure when your battery needs replacing.
Routine battery maintenance can prolong your battery life. So, clean the terminals regularly to avoid corrosion, store at an ideal temperature (10-15 degrees Celsius), and adjust your driving habits to ensure your battery lasts as long as possible.
Contact us or drive straight into our Go Champion service center in Downey, CA, to book an appointment with our service team. Our highly-trained mechanicals can handle an extensive range of vehicle maintenance or repair services, including battery replacement, tire rotation, oil change, wheel alignment, and more. Visit us today and let a trusted technician in Downey bring your vehicle back to its tip-top shape.
* MSRP is the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of the vehicle. It does not include any taxes, fees or other charges. Pricing and availability may vary based on a variety of factors, including options, dealer, specials, fees, and financing qualifications. Consult your dealer for actual price and complete details. Vehicles shown may have optional equipment at additional cost. Pricing and offers may change at any time without notification. To get full pricing details, see your dealer.
* Dealer makes no guarantees or warranties, either expressed or implied, with respect to the accuracy of any data listed on this page which was obtained from third party sources. CHAMPION'S internet advertising is intended for California residence only.
While great effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this site, errors can occur.
Please verify all pricing information with a customer service representative.
This is easily done by calling us or visiting us at the dealership.
Customer may not qualify for ALL Rebates shown. Some rebates are stackable and others can and cannot be combined. See Dealer For Complete Details.
While great effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this site, errors can occur. Please verify all pricing information with a customer service representative. This is easily done by calling us or visiting us at the dealership.
Customer may not qualify for ALL Rebates shown. Some rebates are stackable and others can and cannot be combined. See Dealer For Complete Details.
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