How Often to Change a Car Battery

There are several factors involved in the lifespan of a car battery. The most important is the care and maintenance of the battery, such as not allowing it to die by leaving the lights on, for example. Other factors include weather and temperature conditions.

Time Frame

Most batteries are designed to survive at least five years, and some up to six.

Function

A car battery is used to start a car. The battery sends cranking amps to the starter when the ignition is engaged, and once the vehicle starts, the alternator takes over.

Temperature

Cold cranking amps to start a car's starter are drawn from the battery. Colder weather can draw more cold cranking amps and suck more life from a battery over time.

Size

A bigger battery will increase the amount of cold cranking amps it puts out, and will therefore last longer than a smaller battery.

Maintenance

Car batteries usually do not require maintenance during their lifespan of five or six years, but should be replaced after this period of time in order to avoid starting problems.