How Long Do Car Batteries Last?

The average vehicle battery life is around three to four years, but many factors can impact this lifespan. How long do car batteries last in real-world conditions? The answer partly depends on how you drive, and you should be familiar with the signs of a dying car battery if you never want to run into trouble. If you decide that you're due for a car battery change, just let us know! We'd be happy to help.

A Closer Look at Average Vehicle Battery Life 

Your vehicle's maintenance schedule will usually tell you when you need to replace your battery, but it's worth noting that certain batteries may not last as long as others. The next time you're due for a car battery change, make sure to choose a battery from our OEM parts department. 

We've already said that car batteries last around three to four years on average-but this isn't the end of the story. It's possible, albeit unlikely, for a car battery to last up to six years. In some extreme cases, a battery may expire after only two years in operation.

A battery that has needed more than one jump-start is probably not going to last as long as a battery that has been well-maintained, so remember to check all of your lights before you park the vehicle at night!

Factors That Can Shorten Battery Life 

• Battery Drain: Batteries of all varieties last longer when their power levels are kept within a certain range. Allowing your battery to drain completely will weaken its ability to hold a charge and may result in a shorter battery life.
• Cold: Extreme cold can cause a battery's power to drop by a significant margin-and if your battery is on the weaker side, you might wake up on a particularly cold morning to find that your car won't start at all. That's not a common problem for drivers in Deltona and Orlando, but it's still a good idea to test and replace your battery before winter.
• Heat: Extreme heat can cause the fluids in your car battery to evaporate, thereby limiting the battery's ability to hold a charge. If you drive in a warm climate year-round-like most of our neighbors-then your battery might not offer three to four years of solid performance.
• Driving Habits: Starting the vehicle drains the battery, and you need to drive for at least a little while in order to help it regain its charge. You might need more frequent car battery changes if you often take very short trips.

What Are the Signs Your Car Battery Needs to Be Replaced? 

You can often tell if your battery is due for replacement by checking it with a voltmeter. If you don't get a result between 12.4 and 12.9 volts when you test the battery with the engine off, then we recommend you schedule a battery replacement as soon as possible.

Don't take any chances if you notice that your battery's housing looks warped or misshapen. The same is true if battery fluid appears to be leaking. While corrosion is common and can be cleared away, these other issues indicate that you're well overdue for a new battery.

The following signs can also indicate a dying car battery:

• Engine is slow to start
• Car lights are dim or vary in intensity
• Your electrical systems and plugs are not working properly
• Check engine light is on

Ultimately, you shouldn't wait around for these signs to appear. Change your battery once every three to four years at least!

Schedule a Car Battery Change at Subaru North Orlando! 

Whether you're due for car battery replacement or you just want someone to take a look under the hood, you can schedule service with our dealership in Sanford, FL! Just make sure to check out our service specials before you make the trip.