HOW LONG DOES A CAR BATTERY LAST.

Replace your car battery before it dies and leaves you stranded.

Unfortunately, car batteries aren’t able to tell you when they’re about to die.

That’s why they seemingly die at the worst possible time and place, like the side of the highway at night.

“Historically, batteries would give you some indication of their weakening state — typically a slow cranking on vehicle start up but these days, most batteries don’t give you much or any warning before they fail. They work one day and don’t the next.

When should you replace car battery?

Batteries typically last three to six years. There’s no specific mileage to follow because the battery will age even when the car is sitting in the garage.

Meanwhile it is recommends replacing batteries every four years regardless of how they test at the service station. Other mechanics will recommend replacing them around four or five years.

Most batteries will have a stamp on them, which tells you the month and year the battery was made so you’ll have an idea of when it needs to be replaced. It’s also recommended to check your car owner’s manual.

Can Extreme weather conditions affect battery?

It’s always a good idea to change the battery right before extreme weather, battery can fail easier when the weather transitions to freezing or extreme heat.

Factors in determining when to replace a car battery

There are factors that determine how long a battery may last.

Signs of acid leaking or corrosion build-up on the terminals are typically signs that the battery is failing.

Couple of tips to keep your battery in tip-top shape include testing it regularly and cleaning the outside of the battery terminals and connected wires.

Mechanics say you can use a toothbrush, water and baking soda to clean around the terminals. Always turn the vehicle off and remove the negative and positive clamps, in that order. After scrubbing the terminals with baking soda and rinsing with water, reconnect the clamps starting with the positive terminal. Use a special battery terminal cleaner common at any local auto parts store and water.