How Long Does a Car Battery Last?
If you keep up with your car’s routine maintenance needs, you’ll be on track. Nothing lasts forever, though, so you may want to know how long does a car battery last. You may not think of it when driving around Jackson and Clinton, Mississippi, but it may be a concern if you stall at a light or cannot get your car to start first thing in the morning.
At BMW of Jackson, we want Ridgeland and Madison, Mississippi, drivers to be informed. So, read along for the answers to this vital question.
When to Replace a Car Battery
Car batteries generally last between three and five years. Keep in mind that your car battery could have been installed before you bought it. This may mean that you need to replace it before five years, so it’s a good idea to get it checked around the 3-year mark. Make it a point to record the age of your battery, so that you can keep track of it.
What Makes a Car Battery Lose Power?
A handful of different situations can lead to your car battery losing power. Some scenarios could be avoided, so it’s best to know what they are.
Leaving your car outdoors during cold months could wear on the car battery. If you park your car outside on the street or in your driveway, your car battery could be drained by the cold. Usually, heat is cited as a battery drainer, but cold can be worse.
How often do you drive your car? If you work remotely and only use it a few times a week, your battery could drain due to disuse. This may also apply if you travel for a few weeks or months at a time for work or pleasure.
If you drive an SAV, you may love to go off-roading on rocky or uneven terrain. Using all this power puts pressure on the battery and leads to a shorter life span.
Do you use your car in auxiliary mode? Maybe you wait for your child at the bus stop and use the radio or charge your phone. This type of action can also drain the battery.
How to Extend the Life of Your Car Battery
Obviously, you’ll want to avoid some of the scenarios presented in the previous section. Of course, it may be a better idea to turn off the car and not charge your phone or listen to the radio. But some situations may be unavoidable.
You may not be able to move to a home with a garage to shelter your car, but you could park under a tree during sweltering weather.
If you plan to go away for an extended period of time, get your battery checked by our service advisors. They can let you know if the charge will last after you return home.
Schedule Battery Replacement at BMW of Jackson
If you’ve reached the 3-year milestone for your car battery, it may be time to get it checked out near Jackson and Clinton, MS. BMW of Jackson can monitor the battery for wear and replace it if it’s time. Schedule a service appointment online. We’re conveniently located near Ridgefield and Madison, MS, as well.