Certain car parts—like the tires—show visible signs of wear so owners know when it’s time to invest in replacements. Your auto battery, on the other hand, is tucked away under the hood. Therefore, your only indication of its state is in how it affects the performance of your vehicle. To ensure you aren’t left stranded on a hot summer day, the guide below explains what signs to be on the lookout for and what conditions affect battery life.

Understanding Auto Battery Life Spans

How Does Hot Weather Impact an Auto Battery?

Under normal conditions, a car battery can last upwards of seven years. That being said, extreme weather does impact overall usage. On hot days, for example, excess heat can cause fluids within the battery to evaporate. These lower fluid levels can impact the structural integrity of your battery. Heat also accelerates chemical activity within it. Thus, it’s common for batteries to overheat in the summer, causing internal corrosion that cannot be repaired. To try to prevent these problems, park under the shade, get fluids topped off regularly, and avoid taking the car for short trips, which drain battery charge.

What Signs Indicate It’s Time to Replace Your Battery?

When your battery is on its last legs you may experience trouble starting your car since it will need longer to charge. An old battery can also produce a rotten smell when you’re driving or cause electrical issues, such as dim lights on your dashboard. In newer vehicles, a dying battery could trigger the check engine light.

If you call Dolores County, CO, home, and your auto battery is exhibiting any of the signs noted above, turn to Carhart Feed & Seed Co for a quality replacement. As a pillar of the Dove Creek area for over 25 years, this multi-faceted store stocks a variety of products to ensure the community has easy access to tires, car batteries, building equipment, and farming supplies. Call today at (970) 677-2233 to connect with this friendly, locally-owned business and get direct updates by visiting their Facebook page.