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Battery failure usually triggers vehicle breakdowns. There's no direct answer to how long a car battery lasts. Various aspects might influence a battery's condition and lifespan; battery inspections and maintenance will reduce the possibility of failure during the battery's early service life.
Your vehicle's battery is the lifeblood of the vehicle. A battery is essential not just for igniting your engine but also for powering all of your vehicle's electrical components. You'll be going nowhere and have nothing playing on the car radio if you don't have a charged battery. This article explores how long a car battery should last and how to identify if it's about to die.
How Long Does a New Ford Car Battery Last?
How long a car battery lasts is determined by how much it can keep a charge and how long you can recharge it after a replacement. Once it's dead, it can't be recharged. Your Ford model's battery can last four to seven years if you always drive in perfect conditions - no harsh temperatures or excessive humidity. If you maintain a full charge and drive it daily, you'll have a longer battery life.
How Often Does a Ford Need a New Battery?
If your battery lasts for a very short time and starts underperforming, you might wonder how long a car battery should last. Though a battery's specific lifespan depends on the vehicle's condition and handling, most cars require a new battery every four years. That duration may be shorter for most of those who drive in icy conditions for better parts of the year, but the lifespan could even be longer for areas such as the San Mateo area, where summers are long. When your vehicle reaches the three-year mark, pay more attention to how it runs.
New vehicle batteries don't always give warning indicators they're ready to fail. Therefore, it's important to keep the three-to-four-year rule in mind. Request that your mechanic examines your car battery the next time you bring your vehicle in for servicing. Also, keep in mind that all car batteries will eventually need a replacement.
Signs That Your Vehicle Might Need a New Battery
Several warning signs show up when your car's battery needs a replacement. They include a "check engine" light appearing on the dashboard, which normally shows a slow or inefficient battery. This sign could also mean there's an issue with your alternator. After starting up your engine, check how it responds carefully and monitor your battery's condition to avoid being trapped in a journey with an engine that can't start. Here are four warning signals you need a new battery:
Slow Starting Engine
Your battery's components will age and become less effective over time. When this happens, the battery takes longer to charge the starter, so you'll have to wait a little longer than usual for the car to turn over. A slowing engine start is usually a battery's final gasp before it dies.
Dim Lights and Electrical Issues
If it fails, your car battery cannot power your electrical components, such as your headlights or radio. If the headlights appear dimmer than usual or the radio doesn't work efficiently, they may not get enough energy for their normal functioning.
Old Battery
It's easy to overlook when you last got your car battery tested. A battery usually lasts for about 3-5 years in favorable conditions. Climate, electronic demands, handling, and maintenance can all affect how long your battery lasts. Once your battery hits the 3-year mark, have it checked regularly by your mechanic or replace it to avoid any inconveniences.
Clicking Sound When You Turn The Key
After turning your key in the ignition, a current flows from the battery to the starting solenoid, starting the engine. This function will be more difficult for a failing battery, and the current supplied to the starter would be weaker. The clicking noise you're getting is due to the starter receiving insufficient or reduced power from the battery.
Certified Ford Battery Service in San Mateo
A failing battery may not appear to be a serious safety concern, but an entirely dead battery is. If you notice any of the above signs, it's time to visit your car expert. Putnam Ford of San Mateo is your automotive home for those around the San Mateo area. We offer exceptional auto care service and a large range of new and used cars if you need to replace your vehicle. Contact us today or visit our San Mateo area offices for more information.
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