In the last 100 years, the technology behind the car battery hasn't changed much.
This essential part of your vehicle is what helps turn your car on. It also powers all of the electrical systems in your vehicle, including the windows, lights, and windshield wipers.
In other words, if the car battery doesn't work, the car won't work. So, do I need to replace the car battery when I'm 5 years old?
Please read to find out.
Should You Replace a 5-Year-Old Car Battery?
The consensus around car battery replacement is that the average battery lasts four years. After four years, you need to be aware of the signs that the battery is starting to fail, but you don't necessarily have to go out and replace it.
Keep in mind that certain factors can decrease that lifespan. Climate, for example, has a significant impact on when you'll be replacing your car battery. Besides excessive hot or excessive cold, your driving habits also impact car battery shelf life.
If the car is left sitting for long periods of time, that may decrease the lifespan of the battery. Without regular usage, the components of the battery begin to deteriorate.
Car Battery Damage Warning Signs
As the car battery ages, the components begin to wear, and it takes longer to produce a charge. This results in slower start times. Pay attention to how long it takes your car to start to know if it's time for a car battery replacement.
If the check engine light is illuminated, it may be indicating a problem with the battery. Similarly, if the battery warning light is flashing, you should have your battery checked.
Since the car battery is involved in all the electrical systems in the vehicle, these issues may also indicate that the car battery needs to be replaced. Dim lighting is a prime example of car battery damage, for example.
If you notice an odour similar to rotten eggs, that's a warning sign your car battery is damaged. This type of damage indicates that gas has leaked from the battery and needs replacement.
Replacing Your Car Battery
A car battery uses an electrical charge to turn the engine over upon starting and to power electrical systems. As the battery ages, it can't hold that electrical charge as well.
Without replacement, that battery will eventually lose its ability to turn the engine over and start the car. Meaning that, if you allow your battery to drop below a critical level, one day you'll need a boost to start it.
To avoid this situation, you should have your battery performance checked regularly. Battery testing can be completed as part of your regular car maintenance. But if the car battery is nearing or past the four-year mark, you should probably have it checked more often.
Do You Need a New Car Battery?
Your car battery is only made to last about four years. Things like climate and driving habits can reduce that lifespan, too.
So, by the time it's 5 years old, it's probably time to start thinking about replacing the battery in your car. If you're in Winnipeg, Brandon, Regina, Edmonton, or Toronto, check your car battery inventory.