When you buy a new battery for your car, you know it will last you two to seven years. 

That’s a huge window of time. 

What makes it die after two years? Why can some drivers get seven years of life? What’s the difference – and how can you prolong your car battery’s lifespan? 

Driving habits

Some traits you have control over, while others you don’t. One of the biggest is something you can take change of – your driving habits. 

What kind of driving do you do? Does your daily drive include jumping on the highway and heading into the city? Or do you stay close to home, with frequent short trips running errands in your local neighborhood? 

Short trips mean your car is clicked on and off repeatedly. This doesn’t give your battery a chance to recharge, which can lead to incomplete charging cycles, causing the battery to gradually lose its capacity. 

Longer trips give the alternator a chance to fully recharge the battery, which can help maintain its health. 

If you find yourself spending your days on short trips, consider bringing your car out for longer drives from time to time. It keeps your battery healthy longer. 

Temperature

Colorado is known for its extreme weather. The temperatures can fall one month well below zero. Your car chugs just to turn on. A few months later, record-breaking heat can settle in for days. Blazing sun and nothing but heat can take its toll on your car’s battery. 

Heat accelerates chemical reactions inside the battery, leading to fluid evaporation and internal corrosion. This can significantly shorten the battery’s lifespan, especially in regions with hot climates.

Of course, the winter months aren’t any easier. Cold weather reduces the battery’s ability to produce power, making it harder to start the engine. Additionally, cold temperatures increase the thickness of the engine oil, making it harder for the engine to turn over, putting more strain on the battery during startup.

Battery quality

Don’t think you can pick up a cheap battery on sale at your local discount store and expect the longest lifespan. High-quality batteries often feature better construction techniques, including robust internal components and corrosion-resistant materials. Premium batteries may use higher-quality lead plates, separators, and electrolytes, resulting in better performance and longevity.

Where do you find high-quality batteries? Go with a reputable auto service center. They do the research for you, and choose the best batteries for their customers. They understand what to look for, what to purchase, and what makes a difference in lifespan. If you have questions, just ask. Reputable mechanics will be happy to answer your questions. 

Age

When manufacturers state the average car battery will last three to seven years, it’s because there are too many conditions that determine exactly how long a battery will last. 

Over time, the chemical reactions within the battery during charging and discharging processes can degrade its internal components, reducing its capacity to hold a charge. Physical wear and tear, such as corrosion on terminals and vibration from vehicle operation, can also contribute to the deterioration of the battery over time.

Take note of when you install a new battery. If you start noticing problems and it’s close to its end life, you’ll be able to pick up on the clues. 

Maintenance

Every part of your vehicle shakes, rattles, and rolls as it maneuvers through the daily commute. Even a high-quality battery needs maintenance from time to time to ensure it properly functions. 

Corrosion on battery terminals can impede the flow of electrical current, leading to poor performance and premature failure. Regularly cleaning terminals and applying terminal grease can help prevent corrosion.

Maintaining proper electrolyte levels for batteries with removable caps is essential for optimal performance and longevity. Adding distilled water when necessary can help keep the electrolyte levels within the recommended range.

Loose or corroded connections can hinder the flow of electricity between the battery and the vehicle’s electrical system. Ensuring tight and clean connections can improve battery performance.

When was the last time you checked your battery, or had a mechanic do it for you?

Charging system

A battery doesn’t operate alone. 

A faulty alternator can lead to undercharging, where the battery doesn’t receive enough charge during operation, resulting in a gradual depletion of its capacity. Malfunctioning voltage regulators can cause overcharging, which can lead to excessive heat and electrolyte loss, damaging the battery.

This is where it pays to get to know your car. Hear a sound? Notice a smell? If your car operates differently, it’s time to find out why. 

Electrical system

You start the car and let it warm up a few minutes before you drive. You leave the radio on while waiting in the carpool line for your kids. You forget the headlights – does it really matter if they’re on all night?

In short, the answer is yes. 

Using electrical accessories such as headlights, air conditioning, and audio systems when the engine is not running can drain the battery. Over time, excessive drain without proper recharging can shorten the battery’s lifespan.

Prolonged storage

Thanks to working from home, it’s not unusual for cars to be parked for weeks at a time. Or maybe you’re taking an extended holiday – you’re leaving the country for a few months in the winter. 

When a car is left parked for an extended duration, especially without periodic starts or battery maintenance, the battery can gradually lose its charge due to self-discharge. Without the alternator running to recharge the battery, it can deplete over time, leading to sulfation—a process where sulfate crystals form on the lead plates, reducing the battery’s ability to hold a charge.

To solve this problem, take it out for a drive occasionally. If you aren’t available, it’s advisable to use a battery maintainer or trickle charger when storing a vehicle for an extended period. These devices help maintain the battery’s charge levels and prevent sulfation by providing a low, constant charge. 

How long will your car battery last?

If you’re in the market for a new car battery, go with someone you can trust. It ensures you install the battery that offers the longest lifespan while working perfectly with your make and model. 

Have questions? We have answers. We look forward to getting to know you soon.