 A car battery is a silent but essential part of a vehicle setup. It would be best to have a vehicle's battery run optimally and require it to function regardless of the weather, temperature, or other conditions. A good battery will ensure that your engine starts with the first turn of the key. Nevertheless, as much as a vehicle battery is built to last, regardless of the harsh conditions, it doesn't last forever. You need to pay special attention to battery maintenance because it rarely even gives a sign; it just stops working. Interestingly, battery replacement is easy with the Subaru trusted technicians at Subaru Sherman Oaks.Â
Optimal Timing for Battery Replacement
A vehicle battery is not built to last forever and will likely only give you signs after shutting off completely. The chemical buildup of a battery hasn't changed in over a hundred years, but testing the health has gotten a lot easier. The optimal time for battery replacement varies, depending on several factors. However, the average lifespan of a properly maintained quality battery is about four years. After 3-5 years, you can frequently test your battery and prepare for a replacement. Â
A "normal" battery's four-year lifespan isn't a standard time. It is the average expected time for a battery that isn't exposed to extreme temperatures, isn't overloaded with supplying power to several accessories, and goes through full charge cycles with a reliable charging system. Any unusual condition will affect the life span of the battery. For instance, the typical lead-acid car battery is made up of chemicals, and factors like high temperatures, rigorous vibrations, and extreme cold will influence the rate of chemical reaction, which in turn affects the expected life span of the battery.Â
Possible Signs of a Vehicle Battery ProblemÂ
Quality vehicle batteries are usually very reliable for a long time. They neither get damaged nor require maintenance that drivers must remember to check until they stop working completely. A vehicle battery usually will give you obvious signs of impending damage when it is too late. The most expressive sign of a dead, damaged battery is going dead completely. But you can be aware on time if you pay keen attention and carry regular tests for battery maintenance.Â
The battery age is the first clue for an impending battery problem. Once you've used your vehicle battery for about 3-4 years, you may start expecting problems. Another indication of potential battery damage is the driving habit. Short trips and long periods of inactivity tend to cause more damage to your vehicle battery. Also, check out corrosion or stains on any side of the battery. Stains and corrosion, especially beneath the battery, might indicate leakage of the battery chemicals. Similarly, buildup and rust around the terminal can also be an obvious indication of battery damage. A rotten egg smell or overheating burning smell from the battery might indicate leakage of sulfur, which is a problem.Â
How to Replace Your Vehicle BatteryÂ
Although replacing your vehicle battery is relatively easy, entrusting it to trusted technicians is best. Other essential technical considerations exist beyond swapping an old battery for a new one. Getting a quality battery to replace the one that meets the manufacturer's specifications is essential. Technicians will help you check essential qualities of the new battery, such as the manufacture date, group size, cold cranking amps (CCA), and reserve capacity. These technicians will also ensure the battery is well-placed and properly tightened for smooth running.Â
You can add battery replacement and maintenance to your regular Subaru maintenance schedule at the Subaru service department and Subaru Sherman Oaks battery service in Los Angeles, CA. Here, Subaru's trusted technicians will take care of all your auto maintenance and replacement needs to guarantee your vehicle parts' longevity, safety, and peace of mind.Â
