How Long Do Car Batteries Last?

How long do car batteries actually last if you drive regularly around South Park or Pittsburgh? The average vehicle battery life is around three to four years. This can vary from car to car though, and it’s important to be aware of how old your battery is in any case so that you know when to get your car battery changed. We have more information below when it comes to your car’s battery.

The Average Vehicle Battery Life Expectancy

The average battery life is around three to four years. Your specific vehicle may vary, and we highly recommend checking your vehicle’s user manual for specific information on its make and model year. Factors like how often the car is driven, the climate, and the current weather can also play a factor in your average vehicle battery life expectancy, too.

If you’re noticing that you’re getting occasional low battery warnings, we recommend bringing in your vehicle for an inspection when you get your next oil change or tire rotation . We have the tools to monitor your vehicle’s charge, and we can inspect your battery to measure how much charge it should be holding and how much it’s actually holding. Sometimes occasional low battery notifications can mean something like cold weather or a change in seasons. At other times, it can mean that your battery isn’t holding a charge as it should.

Factors That Can Shorten Battery Life or Require a Change

Factors like how often you drive, the climate, and even the weather can be factors in your battery’s life or shorten the time until a needed battery change:

• Climate & Location: Very hot climates and very cold climates can have significant effects on your vehicle. Keep your vehicle in a controlled climate if at all possible to improve your vehicle’s overall longevity.
• Driving Habits: It’s common knowledge that leaving your car’s power on when the ignition is off can drain your battery if done regularly. What you may be less aware of is that not driving your vehicle for longer spans of time can have a negative effect on your charge, especially in colder environments. We highly encourage you to take your car out for a 30-minute or so drive every few days if you don’t drive your car too often.

What Are the Signs Your Car Battery is Low?

• Your check engine light is on
• Your engine is slow to start
• Your car lights are dim
• Your cell phone charger, heated seats, etc. aren’t working
• The connectors for your car’s battery are corroded
• The battery case looks warped or misshapen
• Your car’s battery is well over three or four years old

Schedule a Car Battery Change at Bowser Subaru Today

We offer plenty of options when it comes to maintaining your vehicle, and we can help you with your next battery change. Contact our service team today to learn more about your service options, and be sure to explore our service specials for even more savings with Bowser Subaru.