When should a car battery be replaced?

A car battery should usually be replaced when it shows signs of failing or when it reaches a certain age. Here are the key factors to consider:

1. Age of the Battery
• 3-5 Years: Most car batteries last between 3 to 5 years. If your battery is within this age range, it's wise to start monitoring its performance closely and consider changing it proactively.
2. Performance Problems
• Slow Engine Crank: If the engine cranks slowly or takes longer to start, it could be a sign that the battery is weakening.
• Frequent Jump Starts: Needing to jump-start your car frequently is a clear indication that the battery is not holding a charge well and should be changed.
3. Visual Signs of Damage
• Corrosion: Excessive corrosion on the terminals or battery case may indicate internal battery problems.
• Swollen or Leaking Battery Case: A swollen or leaking battery case is a strong sign that the battery is compromised and should be changed instantly.
4. Electrical Problems
• Dim Lights or Electrical Failures: If your car’s lights are dimming or other electrical parts are malfunctioning, it may be due to a weak battery.
5. Battery Warning Light
• Dashboard Indicator: If the battery warning light on your dashboard comes on, it’s a sign that there may be a problem with the battery or the charging system. If the battery is the issue, it should be changed.
6. Cold Weather Performance
• Struggling in Cold Weather: Batteries often fail in cold weather due to the increased strain on the battery. If your battery struggles in cold temperatures, it may want to be replaced.

Regularly testing your battery, especially after it reaches the 3-year mark, can help you avoid unexpected failures.

Wondering about when should a car battery be replaced? Call our ASE Certified Mechanics at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about car battery replacement and to request an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.

Why is car repair so expensive?

Repair is an important component of owning a car, no matter how costly it is to do. Making sure that your car is up to date with all repairs is going to keep it running longer, and is also going to help cut down on future car service needs. So, why is car repair so expensive, keep reading to find out more.

What Are Some Common Car Repairs?

Some of the most common car repairs that mechanics have to deal with are things that could have been prevented had the car been properly serviced. With things like a transmission repair or an engine that is locked up, this can often be prevented with routine oil changes. The oil in the engine helps to lubricate the entire system to help ensure that things do not grind together and that they then keep working properly.

If you neglect to get your oil changed, you can end up with an engine that is locked up and that needs to be repaired or even fully changed if needed. Another common repair that can be very expensive is total brake and rotor replacement. If you neglect to get your brakes serviced and replaced as needed this can warp the rotors of your car which can then lead to the need to fully change all your brakes.

Other Factors to Consider:

• Cost of replacement components
• Labor Costs
• New TechnologyAdvanced Components
• Replacing Large or Complete Systems

Why is Car Repair So Expensive?

Repairs are costly simply because they do take very specific skills, knowledge, and tools that you as a normal person might not have. It does take a skilled mechanic to help keep your car running well, which means that you are going to have to pay more for car service if you want them to be done right if you want it to be done quickly, and if you want to ensure that your car is going to keep running for years to come.

Wondering why is car repair so expensive? Call our ASE Certified Mechanics at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about car service and to request an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.