How Do I Know if My Car Battery is Dead?

Car batteries are one of those components that generally don’t get much thought unless you’re having issues. So when it finally does reach the end of its lifespan, what are the signs you should look out for?

How Long Do Automotive Batteries Last?

The exact lifespan of a car battery is heavily dependent on factors such as weather, driving conditions, driving frequency, and make/model. However, you can generally expect a battery to last anywhere between 3-5 years. 

Signs of a Dead Battery

The symptoms of a dead car battery can vary by vehicle, but there are a few common signs that yours has reached the end of the road. 

Slow Starting

One of the most obvious indications of a dying battery is trouble starting your vehicle. As the battery provides the initial electricity for ignition, a dead or dying battery will have a hard time producing the necessary power. 

Battery Warning Light

The easiest way to tell if your battery is nearing replacement is an illuminated battery warning light. This light doesn’t always mean complete battery failure, but it signals an issue that could lead to insufficient charge. 

Strange Symptoms and Unrelated Lights

Modern cars use a wide variety of modules, computers, and electrical systems. When your battery is starting to get weak, you may see warning lights on the dash and other strange symptoms you normally would not expect from a battery problem. 

Dim or Flickering Lights

If you notice that your vehicle’s headlights are flickering, this may mean your battery is not strong enough to power them consistently and could need replacement soon. 

Engine Doesn’t Crank

If your engine isn’t cranking at all when trying to start your vehicle, there’s a good chance you’re experiencing battery failure. You might hear a rapid clicking when trying to turn your key, or it may not do anything at all. 

No Dome Light or Door Chimes

If your interior lights or door chimes are not working, it could be due to a failing battery. This may also occur because of a blown fuse, so it’s important to confirm the source of the issue before 

having it replaced. 

How Much Does a Car Battery Replacement Cost?

Even though batteries last multiple years, they’re also generally inexpensive to replace when it’s time. The exact cost of the battery depends on the make/model of the car and the type of battery, however, you can expect to pay between $50 to $200.

Battery & Electrical Services at Borst Automotive

If you feel your vehicle may need a new battery, or any other electrical system service, trust the experts at Borst Automotive. Give us a call or schedule online today. We have locations in Tucson, Mesa, and Phoenix!