Knowing when to charge or replace car batteries isn’t easy. However, since it’s essential for starting the engine, allowing it to run low could cause the vehicle to stop functioning altogether. Avoid getting stuck by becoming familiar with the top factors for battery replacement and determining how they affect the need for service.

How to Know Whether to Charge or Replace Car Batteries

Age

Car batteries are made to last approximately three to five years before requiring replacement. Driving regularly charges the battery and keeps it from going below a certain level, which can extend its lifespan by another three to five years. Those that remain in park for days on end tend to deteriorate at a much faster rate and may require premature replacement.

Climate

Depending on where you live, temperatures could have a direct effect on your battery needs. Warmer areas will increase stress on internal mechanisms and cause a slight degradation to the battery.

Manufacturers attempt to protect it by isolating the battery and encasing it in a heat shield, but replacements tend to occur every three years in these conditions. Cooler climates are much easier on battery function and could allow it to last the full five years on a simple charge.

Hardware

Engines feature an assortment of hardware to hold everything in its place. Any that come loose can increase the vibrations and cause damage to the battery.

Reduce the potential for a replacement by having the mechanics check for loose or missing hardware during routine maintenance. Catching these issues early could preserve the integrity of the engine and prolong the life span of the battery.

Keep your car fully functional by reaching out to Victory Battery of Covington, KY. They’re a family-owned and –operated company that has been in the business since 1957. They stock a wide range of name brand products, including automotive batteries by Interstate and Deka®. Battery installation is available in their state-of-the-art facility as well as free testing with every purchase. Learn more about the batteries that they have in stock by visiting their website. Call (859) 581-0343 to set up an appointment.