Car Battery: lifespan, maintenance and replacement

Typical lifespan: 3–5 years.

Maintenance schedule

• Inspect terminals; cleaning/disconnection must follow vehicle safety instructions — At service or if corrosion appears
• Test battery voltage — Annually
• Check for corrosion — Every 3 months

Signs it needs replacing

• Slow engine crank
• Dim headlights
• Battery warning light on dash
• Swollen or bloated battery case
• Need for frequent jump starts

Tips

Use the specified battery type and test both the battery and charging system; a battery warning light can indicate a charging fault. Lead-acid batteries contain corrosive acid and can emit flammable hydrogen. Wear eye protection and chemical-resistant gloves, avoid sparks, and follow vehicle jump-start and disconnect instructions. Never charge or jump-start a frozen, swollen, cracked or leaking battery; obtain professional help.