How Long Do Car Batteries Last?

What’s the average vehicle battery life? Typically, a car battery change happens after about three to four years. However, this interval varies from car to car, so it’s essential to know the signs of a dying car battery so you can get your vehicle to our Charleston service center for attention. A dead car battery can ruin your day, and we want to help avoid that. Learn more about the average life of your vehicle’s battery and the signs that a car battery change is needed.

What is the Average Vehicle Battery Life?

As mentioned above, this can vary, and some drivers recommend waiting five or six years to change the vehicle’s battery. Help avoid any issues, and schedule a battery change every three to four years.

Similar to oil changes and tire rotation services, car battery replacement is a vital part of your vehicle’s routine maintenance. It’s good to have the battery inspected during regular service visits, even if it’s working correctly. Also, there are numerous factors negatively affecting the battery’s life.

Factors That Can Shorten Battery Life

Driving habits and location can shorten car battery life over time, which results in replacing the battery before three or four years:

• Driving Habits: Not driving often and leaving your vehicle sitting for long periods weakens your car’s battery. During your commute, take the longer scenic route to allow your car’s battery to have more time to charge. Also, don’t leave the power on when the ignition is off. Leaving an interior light on overnight also drains the battery easily.
• Climate & Location: Driving in a hot climate year-round weakens your battery more than driving in a cooler climate.

What Are the Signs Your Car Battery is Low?

If you don’t recognize the signs of a failing car battery, you may not notice there’s an issue until your car won’t start. Look out for these signs below:

• Check engine light is on
• The engine is slow to start
• Car lights are dim
• Electric issues (cell phone charger, heated seats, etc. aren’t working)
• Connectors for the battery are corroded
• The battery case looks warped or misshapen

Schedule a Car Battery Change at Mercedes-Benz of Charleston!

Want to know more car battery care tips or additional service tips to keep your vehicle performing at its best? We have you covered! Feel free to contact our service center if you have any questions or need to schedule a routine service appointment.