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The car battery is what powers every electrical component in a car. At some point, the car battery needs to be replaced, but when? Is there a way to tell that the car battery is failing? How long does it last?

Let’s start with why you need battery replacement in Singapore?

Most cars have lead-acid batteries that are made of six cells with lead and lead-oxide plates filled with an electrolyte (dilute sulfuric acid). Over time, a lead-acid battery loses some of its capacity, mostly due to sulfation. At some point, the capacity will drop so low that the battery won’t be able to start your car.

How long can car battery last?

An average car battery lasts from 5 to 7 years. Usually the battery lasts longer if the vehicle is driven daily. If the vehicle is parked for extended periods of time without starting, the battery will need to be replaced sooner. The car battery lasts longer when it’s kept fully charged, although overcharging can also damage it. Therefore, problems with your vehicle’s charging system can also cause the battery to fail prematurely.

Is there a way to tell that the car battery is failing?

Not always, but there are some telltale signs. When the battery is failing, it loses its capacity, meaning it can hold less charge than when it was new. If your battery has low capacity you may notice that when you are starting the car, the engine turns over slower than before, even if the battery is fully charged. It sounds like the starter motor is “lazy” and not as eager to turn over your engine. You may also notice that the interior lights flicker and go dimmer than usual when you are turning over the engine.

Does the battery need any maintenance?

Most modern batteries are maintenance-free. Typically, the battery is checked visually during your regular oil changes. Your mechanic may recommend servicing your battery terminals if there is some corrosion at the terminals.

Does the red battery warning light on the dash mean the battery is bad?

The red warning icon on the dash depicting a battery indicates a problem with your vehicle’s charging system. If it comes on while driving, it means your battery is not charging. The battery may still be okay, but the charging system needs to be tested.

What may cause a car battery to drain quickly (e.g overnight)?

Either the battery has an internal defect or some electrical component in the car stays on and drains the battery.

Is there a way to test the battery condition?

Yes, your mechanic can test your battery with a battery tester. Car dealers and many independent repair shops have a computerized battery tester that not only can tell the state of the battery, but can also test the charging and starting system. You may also get the test printout that indicates the current capacity of your battery and measurements of the starting and charging systems.

Usually the test will show if the battery replacement in Singapore needs to be done. If your battery is very old, you might consider having it replaced rather than paying for the test. A battery replacement Singapore is needed if it is leaking or has a mechanical damage.