While you may remember to change your oil regularly, do you also check your battery? If you’re like most Americans, the answer is probably not. Unfortunately, a dead battery is one of the top reasons motorists call for roadside assistance. Yet, a simple test can determine if you should replace your car battery sooner rather than later. When searching for professional Kernersville car battery installation near me, choose Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.
Signs You May Need A New Battery
Sometimes, your battery will give you signs that it’s nearing time to replace it. If you don’t want to get stranded, you’ll take these warnings seriously:
- Difficulty starting your car
- Dim headlights or other electrical issues
- Check engine light illuminated
- Rotten egg smell
- Corrosion
- Deformed battery case
- Old battery
Typically, an old battery has trouble producing enough electricity required by the starter to get the engine running. Thus, you may find the engine has difficulty in turning over. You may also notice other electrical issues like dim headlights. Additionally, your check engine light may illuminate.
Sometimes, when exposed to extreme weather, batteries can crack or become misshapen. When cracks appear, acidic fumes can leak out. Often, you’ll notice a smell like rotten eggs. You may even spot corrosion on your terminals.
Factors Affecting the Longevity Of My Car Battery
Occasionally, your car battery may not last quite as long as you expected. Some reasons for an early failure may include your driving habits and the weather. Furthermore, you must use the correct size for your vehicle as well as perform routine car maintenance.
Primarily, not all manufacturers build car batteries equally. Some are more resistant to vibration. Others have a more durable casing. Even among the same brand of battery, you’ll find different warranties.
Also, your driving habits will impact the life of your battery. Always taking short trips will drain your battery without giving it a chance to charge. Moreover, batteries in vehicles parked for extended periods will naturally discharge.
Additionally, hot weather can negatively affect your battery. Heat speeds up the chemical reaction and increases the risk of corrosion. Combine heat with an unused car and you have the recipe for a dead battery.
Furthermore, the wrong size battery will cause more problems than just a shortened life. Using the incorrect battery size may also damage electrical systems or your alternator.
Finally, always keep on top of all routine maintenance tasks. A neglected car engine can produce vibrations that are damaging. For example, worn spark plugs, tires, or timing belts can cause shaking that may harm your battery.
What To Know About Car Battery Warranties
When you buy a brand-new car, the manufacturer offers a bumper-to-bumper warranty. Unfortunately, this manufacturer’s warranty doesn’t extend to certain items like batteries. Many automakers only warranty the battery for 2 years or 24,000 miles.
Typically, most batteries only last about 3 years, depending on your driving habits and the battery. When you purchase a new battery, you’ll want to look carefully at the manufacturer’s warranty. Generally, car battery warranties have specific terms and conditions.
For example, ordinarily only the retailer who sold you the battery can honor your warranty. You will need to show proof of purchase which means you must have the receipt. Hopefully, if you can’t find your receipt, the retailer will have your purchase on file.
Ordinarily, manufacturers offer a period of full replacement followed by a prorated interval. The full replacement period varies by the manufacturer from 1-5 years. Once the prorated interval begins, the manufacturer will only cover a percentage of replacing the battery. Eventually, the warranty will run out leaving you with the full cost of replacement.
FAQs To Help You Find Expert Kernersville Car Battery Installation Near Me
Your car battery is one of the most important parts of your car. To help you make an informed choice when purchasing a new battery, we’ve put together a few commonly asked questions.
Can You Test My Battery?
If you’re not sure you need a battery replacement, you can bring it down to Xpress Lube of Kernersville. Our technicians can use several tests to determine the health of your battery:
- Electrical output
- Load test
- Electrolyte gravity test
Once we’ve determined the state of your battery, we can make recommendations as to when to replace it. Moreover, should you need an immediate replacement, we can take care of you right away. We’ve been offering Kernersville car battery installation near me for over 2 decades. You’ll love our competitive pricing along with our fast and friendly service.
How Much Does A New Battery Cost?
Usually, you’ll find a wide range of pricing for batteries. Typically, the expected life of the battery is one factor affecting the cost. Another is the type of warranty offered by the manufacturer. Additionally, the make and model of your car may affect the cost of a new battery.
When you bring your car into Xpress Lube of Kernersville, we’ll check over your engine before replacing your battery. Sometimes, another part of your engine may be causing the issue. If you do need a replacement, we’ll take time to explain warranties and prorated intervals to ensure your complete satisfaction.
Yes! At Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville, our ASE-certified technicians can perform over 30 common repairs. Plus, our technicians can keep your vehicle running at optimal efficiency with routine maintenance like oil changes. Moreover, we also have a state-of-the-art car wash to keep the exterior of your vehicle looking new.
No one likes getting stranded on the side of the road, and we want to keep that from happening. Thus, we offer practical maintenance tips and suggestions for keeping your car at peak performance. Follow us on our Facebook and Instagram pages to discover the latest news!
