How Long do Car Batteries Last?
Over the past 100 years or more, car battery designs for 12-volt vehicle electrical systems haven’t changed very much, but vehicles themselves have. The very basic needs of vintage models are eclipsed by the dozens of computers and sensors in current model years. What does that mean for how long a car battery lasts?
The answer is varied based on a handful of criteria, and it could be under three years or more than 10 years. Learn what factors into battery longevity, signs of a bad battery, and how long you can expect an automotive battery to last.
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Batteries live a mysterious and misunderstood life. While some batteries offer clues that failure is coming, many do not. While we’d all like to have an avid array of warnings that battery failure is coming, it’s good to first prevent some of the big issues causing battery failures, and next, react quickly when clues present themselves that something may be wrong.
It’s important to remember that no battery lasts forever, but certain things can reduce the life of a battery, and sometimes very quickly. Whether you’re keeping your car in storage all year or driving it every day, you’ll still need to replace your battery at some point. Typically, the average car battery life is between three and five years. Pushing a battery longer than five years, even under perfect driving conditions, could cause your battery to fail without notice. For that reason, many manufacturers recommend a replacement schedule of five years.
When your battery is reaching three or more years old, consider having it tested. Think about getting it checked at the turn of the seasons or during every oil change. AutoZone can quickly test your battery, along with your charging system to make sure that your battery is working properly, and the charging system is getting the battery the charge needed to maintain it when running.
Types of Vehicle Batteries
All batteries operate by transferring ions from the negatively charged plates to the positively charged plates as energy is being used, and the flow is reversed when a charge is being applied. However, different chemistries exist.
Lead-Acid Batteries
Lead-acid batteries are the traditional choice for most vehicles due to their reliability and cost-effectiveness. Characterized by their use of lead plates submerged in a sulfuric acid solution, these batteries have been powering cars for over a century.
For the average car owner, it’s important to ensure that the battery is regularly checked and maintained to maximize its life. While they may not be the most cutting-edge technology available, lead-acid batteries offer a solid balance of performance and value for everyday driving needs.
AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) Batteries
AGM batteries represent a step up from traditional lead-acid batteries, incorporating an absorbent glass mat between the battery’s lead plates. This design enhancement allows for lower internal resistance, quicker charging times, and a greater ability to deliver high currents on demand.
AGM batteries are particularly suited for vehicles with start-stop technology or those equipped with a lot of electrical accessories, thanks to their durability and efficiency. While they come at a higher upfront cost, AGM batteries can be a worthwhile investment for those looking to upgrade their vehicle’s electrical system reliability.
EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery) Batteries
Enhanced Flooded Batteries, or EFBs, are a relatively new development in car battery technology, designed to support the increasing electrical demands of modern vehicles. EFB batteries offer improved charge acceptance and greater cycle durability compared to conventional lead-acid batteries, making them ideal for cars with start-stop systems.
For car owners interested in a battery that balances enhanced performance with cost efficiency, EFB batteries present a compelling option. They bridge the gap between standard lead-acid and premium AGM batteries, providing a reliable power source for a wide range of automotive applications.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are at the forefront of automotive battery technology, primarily used in electric and hybrid vehicles. They are known for their high energy density, lightweight construction, and ability to recharge quickly.
For the average car owner, lithium-ion batteries offer a glimpse into the future of driving, with their long lifespan and superior performance offset by a higher initial cost. They’re extremely long-lasting, and they’re usually much more than you need unless you are using it for a safety power capacity battery, the 12-volt battery, on an EV.
Climate and Temperature
How long batteries last is affected greatly by how and where you use your vehicle. Understanding these factors can help you maximize battery life and ensure your vehicle remains in top condition.
Driving Habits
Driving habits significantly impact battery life. Frequent short trips can prevent the battery from fully charging, leading to a condition known as ‘undercharging’. Over time, undercharging can cause the battery to sulfate, reducing its capacity and lifespan. Conversely, consistent longer drives allow the battery to charge fully, promoting healthier battery life.
Your Climate
Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can adversely affect your car battery. High temperatures can cause battery fluid to evaporate, leading to internal damage and reduced battery life. Cold weather, on the other hand, increases the viscosity of the fluid inside the battery, making it harder for your car to start and forcing the battery to work harder. This added strain can shorten the battery’s lifespan over time.
Vehicle Usage Patterns
How often and how much you use your vehicle also influences battery life. Cars that are left unused for extended periods can experience battery drain, as modern vehicles always have some systems (like remote starters) that draw power. On the other hand, vehicles with high electrical demands due to advanced electronics or frequent use of features like air conditioning can also put additional load on the battery, affecting its longevity.
Regular Inspections
To ensure your car battery has a long and healthy life, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regularly check battery terminals. Ensure they are clean and free from corrosion. A battery terminal cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water can be used to clean any corrosion.
- Keep the battery tightly fastened. Vibrations from driving can loosen the battery, leading to internal damage and short circuits.
- Regularly use your vehicle. Try to drive your car regularly to prevent the battery from losing charge. If you plan to leave your car unused for an extended period, consider using a battery maintainer.
- Monitor battery charge. Use a car battery tester to monitor your battery’s health and charge level, ensuring it’s within normal levels.
- Avoid draining your battery. Leaving lights on or using electronics while the engine is off can drain your battery. Always check to make sure all electronics are off when you exit your vehicle.
If you need to charge your battery, use a high-quality battery charger that’s intended for your battery chemistry. If you have an AGM, EFB, or Li-Ion battery, ensure the charger specifies it can safely be used on it.
If your battery does not accept a charge, the battery case is cracked, there’s a fluid leak, or the case is bulged, it should be replaced.
Signs of a Failing Battery
A battery typically degrades slowly, and when it’s not capable of supporting your car’s needs any longer, symptoms will be present. Signs can include:
- Slow engine cranking
- The need for frequent jump starts
- Flickering lights
- Intermittent electrical issues
- A sulfur or rotten egg smell under the hood
A battery test should be completed every six months, especially when the battery is more than two years old. At AutoZone, we can do that for you with in-vehicle and out-of-vehicle testing at virtually all of our stores.
So then, how long do car batteries last?
- Typically, a lead-acid battery lasts between three to five years, but its lifespan can be influenced by factors like temperature, humidity, and how frequently the vehicle is used.
- Car owners can expect an AGM battery to last about four to seven years, though this can vary based on usage patterns and environmental conditions.
- On average, EFB batteries have a lifespan similar to AGM batteries, ranging from four to six years depending on the vehicle’s use and maintenance practices.
- Unlike their lead-acid counterparts, lithium-ion batteries can last up to 10 years or more, although their actual lifespan will depend on factors such as charging habits and climate.
When the time comes for a new car battery, AutoZone has what you need. Find the perfect fit with options like Duralast Platinum for long life and dependable starts.
FAQ/People Also Ask
Generally, a standard lead-acid battery lasts between three and five years whereas AGM and EFB batteries tend to last four to seven years.
Completely discharging the battery, storing it with less than a full charge, and operating it in harsh environments can lead to a shorter life.
Yes it can. When possible, keep the battery in moderate conditions to help avoid trouble from excessive heat or cold.
Symptoms will be present including slow cranking, frequent dead batteries, flickering lights, and more.
Regularly check and clean battery terminals to prevent corrosion, keep the battery securely fastened to minimize vibrations, and ensure your vehicle is driven regularly to avoid battery discharge.
