So, How Long Do Car Batteries Last?

Have you noticed some electrical issues with your vehicle that made you wonder, how long car batteries last? Well, the average vehicle battery life is about three to four years. However, you may experience some variation from vehicle to vehicle and brand to brand. Either way, getting familiar with the signs of a dying car battery can help you stay ahead of potential issues when navigating the Fayetteville and Springdale roads. We know a dead car battery can ruin your entire day. Learn about the timing for a car battery change and more service details with Superior Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Of Northwest Arkansas below. 

What is the Average Vehicle Battery Life? 

The answers you will get to this question will vary depending on who you are talking to, some drivers may suggest waiting five or six years to change a car battery. While another driver may suggest waiting for as little as one to two years. Generally speaking, scheduling a battery change every three to four years is a good way to avoid issues – a happy medium. 

Similar to oil changes, tire services, and brake services, car battery replacement is an important element in your routine vehicle maintenance. Have your battery inspected as part of regular service visits, even if it’s still working properly. You can also experience some factors that could have a negative impact on your battery life. 

Average Vehicle Battery Life: Factors Impacting Battery Life 

Driving habits and location can have a large impact on your battery, and the results can be a car battery change earlier than you may have planned or hoped for: 

• Driving Habits: If you don’t drive frequently and leave your vehicle sitting for long periods of time, this can weaken your car’s battery. When you do drive, whether commuting or going to the grocery store, try taking the longer scenic route, to help your car battery have more time to charge. Also, make sure you don’t leave the power on when the ignition is off. Leaving an interior light on overnight can easily drain the battery. 
• Climate & Location: If you are frequently driving in a hot climate year-round, you will weaken your battery more than if you drive in a cooler climate. 

How Long Do Car Batteries Last: Signs Your Car Battery is Low 

If you aren’t sure what to look for, then you won’t know when your car battery is nearing the end of its life. Here are a few of the signs to keep an eye out for when you are reaching the average lifespan of a car battery:

• 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 

Age is one of the bigger determinants that your car battery may need a change. If your car battery is approaching three years old, be sure to visit us in Siloam Springs outside Bentonville for a battery load test to be sure your battery is working properly. 

Schedule a Car Battery Change in Siloam Springs today! 

Our team at Superior Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Of Northwest Arkansas is happy to provide expert service, catered specifically to your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram model. After learning about the maintenance routine surrounding your vehicle’s battery, you should know when it’s time to schedule your service appointment and get your battery changed out. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our team or explore our service tips online!