Does my car need a new battery?

The battery of a car is one of the most important components of the electrical system. It starts the engine and gives power to the car's parts.

Generally, if your battery is malfunctioning, it negatively affects the alternator as well as the infotainment and headlight systems.

It's crucial that you know some warning signs that indicate your battery is dying.

What affects my battery's lifespan?

A car's battery typically lasts approximately 3 years minimum. But there are some factors that can affect the lifespan of your battery. For example, the weather where you're driving and your driving habits.

Weather conditions

Your car battery's lifespan may be impacted by the climate where you live. Extreme heat and cold may result in a number of problems.

Hot weather

In automotive applications, most batteries use a mix of distilled water and sulfuric acid as an electrolyte.

In extremely hot conditions, the water evaporates, which impacts the performance of the battery, decreasing its performance, lifespan, and starting power.

The charging system can become corroded due to excessive heat and consequently cause the battery to become overcharged. This causes the water in your battery to evaporate much faster.

Cold weather

In cold conditions, your vehicle's battery has to work harder to generate the same amount of energy as it does when it's warm.

So if your car's battery is already weak, it might not be able to start the vehicle in cold weather. It can also make engine oil thicker, which puts more strain on your alternator and battery.

Your driving style

A car battery only charges when your engine is running and typically requires some time to fully recharge. Therefore, your battery's performance may decrease if you generally use your car for short drives, such as short trips to your workplace or local stores.

Your battery will also suffer if you don't use your vehicle very often and it sits for a long time in your garage. This is because your battery continues to drain passively while the engine is off.

What are the warning signs of an old battery?

As mentioned before, a battery usually lasts between 3 and 5 years, but if you push it longer than that, your battery may fail, even under perfect driving conditions.

It's important you keep a record of the last time your battery was changed. Therefore, you will know when to get a new battery.

It's recommended to have your battery tested every year if it's more than 3 years old, especially if you're going on a long trip.

Corrosion

Corrosion is a typical symptom of a malfunctioning battery. Corrosion is the building-up of acids on the battery's terminals. It generally looks like a white or blue powder.

If you clean your battery with baking soda and water, the chemicals and harsh acids will be neutralised. But, if the corrosion reappears, this could mean your battery is in the late stages of failure.

Level indicators

If your car's battery is losing fluids, this may be a sign of overheating. The fluid levels in your battery can be checked against the information found in your owner's manual.

Batteries can become overheated if there is some issue under the engine bay or your alternator may be failing.

Slow cranking

A slow engine crank is a very common sign of a faulty battery. If one of your engine's components is damaged or inefficient, your car will struggle to start.

Other warning signals you should be aware of include dimming lights, a bloated or swollen battery case, or a failed alternator.

If you have noticed any of the symptoms mentioned above, it might be time for a battery replacement.

Where to get my car's battery tested?

Always have a professional, like Integrity Tyres assess your battery and replace it if required.

Many times, people mistakenly believe their car's battery is dead when it is actually flat. Lighting left on or faulty voltage regulators are two examples of potential causes for this.

Integrity Tyres supplies and fits quality batteries in WA

The staff at Integrity Tyres can inspect and test your battery to assess its current condition. Our knowledgeable team members can assist you if you need a car battery replacement. We'll make sure your new battery meets your needs and budget.

Correct car battery installation is essential when it comes to achieving the best performance, so please ensure that you have your battery installed by a professional.

Call our store at your local store number or simply book your car online for a battery replacement. Our qualified staff will be happy to assist you.