How Long Do Car Batteries Last?

The best way to keep your car running smoothly on Guymon, OK roads is to stick to your regular maintenance schedule and come in for regular service appointments. At these appointments, our service team will perform various inspections and replacements of your car’s essential components, including your tires, oil, brakes, and transmission fluid.

One of the components we will replace less frequently is your car battery, which generally lasts three to four years before needing to be changed out. However, this is only an average —some drivers suggest waiting as many as five or six years before a car battery charge, while others recommend replacing the battery after as little as two years. Your car’s battery life may also be lengthened or shortened by various driving factors. The service team at Duncan Chevrolet Co., Inc. has more information on the average vehicle battery life in the guide below.

Factors That Can Shorten Battery Life

While you probably won’t be coming in for a car battery change more frequently than every two or three years, there are some factors that can shorten your battery life on the Amarillo roads. The two most important factors are your driving habits and location. Here are more details:

• Driving habits: Driving less frequently can actually weaken your battery life, since you’re leaving your vehicle turned off for prolonged periods of time. Be sure to drive your car regularly and take the scenic route when possible, so your battery has more time to self-charge. You’ll also want to make sure all your lights and any infotainment systems are completely turned off when you leave your car, since leaving them on can drain the battery overnight.

• Climate: If you live in a hotter, more humid climate, your battery will need replacing more frequently than if you primarily drive in a cool, dry area.

What Are the Signs Your Car Battery is Low?

There are some key signs that it’s time for a car battery change, and you’ll want to know how to identify them so you don’t get stuck with a dead battery on your way to work! Here’s what you should look out for:

• Check engine light is on
• The engine is slow to start
• Car lights are dim
• Electric issues (cell phone charger, heated seats, etc. aren’t working)
• Connectors for the battery are corroded
• The battery case looks warped or misshapen

Even if you don’t notice any of the above signs when you’re driving, you should start considering getting your battery replaced once it’s around three years old. You can come into the Duncan Chevrolet Co., Inc. service center for a battery test so we can make sure it’s working properly.

Keep Your Car in Top Condition at Duncan Chevrolet Co., Inc.

If it’s time to get your battery replaced, go ahead and schedule a service appointment with Duncan Chevrolet Co., Inc.! We’ll take care of everything and get you safely back on the Dalhart roads in no time. Be sure to check out our service specials if you’re interested in saving on your next appointment.