How often do you change your car battery?

Your car battery plays an important role in ensuring your car remains reliable, powering everything from the ignition system to essential onboard electronics. However, many car owners tend to overlook its condition until it fails. Being aware of when to replace your battery can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and expensive repairs. If you're looking for reliable car servicing in Melbourne, understanding your battery’s durability is an excellent first step.

In this post, we will cover how often you should change your car battery, what signs to look out for, and when it’s time to seek a battery replacement.

When Should You Replace a Car Battery?

Here are some important points to consider:

• Every 50,000–60,000 km, most batteries begin to degrade.

• After 3 years, get your battery tested during every scheduled car service.

• Cars with heavy electronic usage—navigation, infotainment, seat warmers—can drain batteries faster.

• Stop-start systems in newer vehicles put extra load on batteries, so replacement might be needed earlier.
  

It's also ideal to schedule a battery check before long road trips or during seasonal changes, as these can often increase the risk of battery failure.

Signs Your Battery Might Need Replacement

Here are some signs to keep in mind:

• Slow engine start: If your engine cranks slower than usual, your battery may be losing power.

• Dashboard warning lights: A battery or engine light on your dashboard could mean the battery needs checking.

• Swollen battery case: Heat or overcharging can distort the shape, reducing performance.

• Frequent jumpstarts: If you’ve had to jumpstart your car more than once recently, it’s time to replace the battery.
  

These issues typically arise between the 40,000 to 70,000 km mark. If your vehicle has passed this range and you haven’t had a battery test in over a year, now is the ideal time to schedule one.

Take Away 

To keep your car reliable and prevent unexpected breakdowns, keep the following key points in mind:

• Replace your car battery every 3 to 5 years or after around 50,000 km, whichever comes first.

• Watch for early warning signs like slow engine start, dim lights, or dashboard alerts.

• Driving habits, climate, and vehicle type all influence battery lifespan.

• Include battery checks during regular servicing intervals, ideally every 10,000 to 15,000 km.

• Choose a car mechanic near you for convenience, quicker service, and expert handling.

Avoid the hassle of unexpected battery failure by staying proactive.  BCS Prestige offers reliable car battery replacement near you as part of our full range of car servicing. Book your service today and stay ahead of unexpected issues.