Time For a New Car Battery?
Posted March 2, 2021
Car batteries are one of the most important components of a vehicle’s engine. It provides the electricity to start your car and power your accessories. Without a working car battery, you’re going nowhere.
But how do you know when it’s time for a new battery?
Heat, cold, and temperature swings can affect the battery’s performance, so be sure to check your battery at the change of seasons, like when winter turns to spring!
Watch for warning signs of a failing battery, including:
- Age
- Trouble starting your vehicle
- Leaks
- Fraying cables
- Corrosion on the terminals
An average car battery usually has a lifespan of 3-5 years. Keep track of the age of your battery and have it tested more frequently as it gets older. We recommend keeping the vehicle’s maintenance records for all services, including purchasing a new battery. Our technicians are happy to keep track of the maintenance schedule for your vehicle as part of your preventative maintenance plan.
Between routine inspections, periodically check the battery yourself at home. Look for fraying cables, corrosion, and white or green powdery substance on the battery itself. Battery acid is very corrosive. If you find evidence of a leak, including the powder-like corrosion at the terminals, bring your vehicle and battery into Veenstra’s Garage. Our technicians will inspect your battery to determine if the corrosion can be cleaned and the leak fixed. If the damage is severe enough, your vehicle may be due for a new battery.
Even young batteries can be damaged in the summer heat we’ll be getting in a couple of months. Don’t be left high and dry on the side of the road. Keeping track of your battery’s age, watching for warning signs, and regular inspections can help you ensure your vehicle has the power it needs to keep you safely on the roads in Michigan.