The battery is one of the most important elements of your car – this is the component responsible for starting, stopping, and charging your vehicle. This is, however, too often an element that many of us tend to overlook – until it goes wrong.
Wondering whether it is time for a new battery? Check out our guide for all the information you need.
Signs That You Need A New Car Battery
There are many signs that your battery may be on its way out, and these include:
- The Engine Struggles To Turn Over
If you notice that your engine struggles to turn over at low revs, or if you hear a loud clunking noise as the starter motor turns over the engine, then it could be time to replace your battery.
- Poor Performance And/Or Poor Mileage
If your car seems sluggish, or if you’re getting poor mileage from your car, it might be time to consider replacing your battery.
- Strange Noises From Your Engine Or Gearbox
If you start hearing strange noises coming from your engine or gearbox, this could be a sign that your battery needs changing.
- No Power At All
If you’ve got no power whatsoever in your car, it could be that your battery has died – if you know that nothing else is amiss on the car, this is the most likely explanation.
- Low Battery Fluid Level
If your battery fluid level is very low, this could mean that your battery is about to die. If you have any doubts about how much fluid is left in your battery, it’s best to get it checked by a professional.
How Long Does A Car Battery Last?
A typical car battery will last around three to five years, although this depends on several factors, including:
- Driving Style
Your driving style can affect how long your battery lasts. If you drive aggressively, your battery will wear more quickly than the battery of someone who drives gently.
- Vehicle Type
A hybrid car battery will last longer than a normal petrol-powered car battery because these vehicles use less energy.
- Weather Conditions
Batteries lose their charge faster in hot weather, so if you live somewhere with extreme temperatures, you’ll need to change your battery sooner rather than later.
What Are The Benefits Of Changing My Car Battery?
There are two main benefits to changing your car battery:
- Improved Fuel Economy
Replacing your battery means you won’t be using up valuable fuel every time you start your car.
- Increased Safety
When your battery dies, you run the risk of having a fire break out inside your car. Replacing your battery ensures you don’t have to worry about this happening.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your car battery is essential if you want to keep your vehicle running smoothly. If you are not sure whether your battery needs changing, get in touch with an experienced mechanic, so that you can help make sure your car is safe and healthy for many years to come.
