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Several factors determine the lifespan of your vehicle’s battery. While some batteries may last a few years, others can serve you well for five to six years. The quality and type of battery, severe temperature, vibrations, and the age of the battery all affect its lifespan. Below, your Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealer assists you in determining whether you need a new car battery.
Lifespan
As time passes, car batteries tend to deteriorate gradually, which ultimately leads to insufficient power to run the electronics or start the engine. We highly recommend getting your battery tested by one of our technicians every year if it is over three years old to avoid unsuspected breakdowns. If the battery is older than five years, consider replacing it to avoid getting stuck with a dead battery.
Vibrations
Excessive vibrations can take a toll on your battery’s health by damaging its internal components. If your battery is not secured correctly, it can increase vibrations, leading to a shorter battery life. To reduce vibrations to the minimum, ensure your battery is tightly clamped and secured to avoid short circuits that will affect your battery’s lifespan.
Charging Problems
Your car’s electrical system comprises an alternator and a battery. While the battery stores charge, the alternator replenishes it and starts your car. A failing alternator can cause the battery to stop recharging while the engine is running, leading to your car running on battery power. On the other hand, a malfunctioning alternator can overcharge your car battery and cause so much damage that you have to replace it.
Damage
The Texas heat can play havoc on a battery and destroy it. The extreme temperatures can harm the battery’s case, leading to swelling and creating pressure on the internal parts due to a buildup of gases. Additionally, cracks can form in the battery case, allowing hydrogen sulfide to escape, which can cause significant damage to other components. Damaged batteries can’t function properly, pose a safety risk, and should be replaced immediately.
A Weak Battery
There are several indications that your battery is weak. One of the most obvious is the battery light illuminating due to a voltage drop. You may also notice that your headlights dim, experience various electronic problems, and have difficulty starting your car. Replace your battery immediately before it’s too late, and you must use jumper cables to get your vehicle going.
A Dead Battery
When a battery dies, it can negatively impact its longevity even after recharging. Nonetheless, if you jump-start your car, the engine successfully recharges the battery and can hold the charge; there is no need to worry. However, if your vehicle requires a jump-start multiple times within a short period, it’s clear that the battery has reached the end of its lifespan.
Don’t allow battery problems to ruin your driving experience. Stop at Patterson Motors of Kilgore CDJR in Kilgore, TX, today for a range of superior batteries and ensure your vehicle is always ready to get you safely wherever you need to go.
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