How to Choose Your Vehicle Battery

Most car batteries last around 5 years, which means that every motorist needs to know the signs that the battery needs replacing, how to find the right one and how to get a new car battery installed. The car battery is essential for getting the car started, operating the lights and all electric components, so it is a hugely important feature of the car that you need to know about. Read on to find out more.

When do You Need to Change?

As mentioned in the intro, most car batteries last around 5 years but this could be shorter or longer. This is why it is helpful to be aware of a few signs that your battery is on its way out and will need replacing soon. One of the most obvious signs is if you have trouble starting the car whether this is the engine cranking slower than normal or if you only hear a clicking noise.

Other signs that your car battery could be on its way out include dim headlights, a loss of power to electrics and a dashboard warning signal.

The Different Types of Battery

You also need to be aware that not all car batteries are the same. The most common type of car battery is a lead acid battery, but there are also calcium batteries, Yuasa silver and AGM batteries (powerful batteries used only in modern vehicles with start/stop technology). You need to make sure that you find the right replacement car battery for your vehicle and never downgrade as this could lead to car trouble.

What to Consider

First, you need to know what battery for my car is right. You need to make sure that you have the right size, brand, reserve capacity, age and cold-cranking amps. There will be a battery section in the owner’s manual of the car and this will tell you all that you need to know. You will also want to make sure that you buy your replacement battery from a trusted supplier and this will also be the best way to find a wide range of batteries. You can either install the new battery yourself as it is a straightforward task but many will prefer to have it done by a professional.

Every motorist needs to know about car batteries and how to go about finding a replacement when the times comes and this post should tell you all that you need to know.