What causes a car battery to go bad?
Modern batteries are specially designed to start your car, maintain its computer memory, and run all the electronics. However, over time, especially after they have hit the four-year mark, they run out of juice- and die.
But what causes a car battery to go bad? Multiple reasons can make your battery die unexpectedly, as shown below:
- Extreme Temperatures: Weather conditions are the most common reasons why batteries keep dying. Compared to the newer ones, older batteries tend to be the most affected, especially if the weather is extreme. Before considering car battery replacement, the best thing to do is troubleshoot or contact a technician.
- Corrosion Buildup: Over time, gases or chemicals can escape from cracks around the terminals. As a result, corrosion can build up when they contact your metals on the terminals.
- Extended Sitting: It goes two ways: either you use it or lose it. You stand to lose your battery if you let it lie idle for extended periods. If you know you won't be driving your vehicle for a long time, it is recommended that the negative terminal be disconnected to avoid draining up
- Age: Modern batteries are designed with a maximum lifetime of 4-5 years. Technically, batteries are made of cells filled with sulfuric acid, and as they age, they go through a process called sulfation, which can cause your battery to stop functioning.
- Parasitic Draw: This term describes vehicle electrical mishaps that can drain your battery even when the engine is off. To avoid parasitic draws, ensure that all the doors are closed and turn off every light.
It is almost inevitable for batteries to die, but you don't want them to do so when every time. This can leave you questioning what causes a car battery to go bad. Ensure you consider the above factors before considering car battery replacement.
Have questions about what causes a car battery to go bad? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about car battery replacement and to schedule an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
Wondering what causes a car battery to go bad? Ask the specialists at Clausen Automotive if you need a car battery replacement.
Modern batteries are specially designed to start your car, maintain its computer memory, and run all the electronics. However, over time, especially after they have hit the four-year mark, they run out of juice- and die.
But what causes a car battery to go bad? Multiple reasons can make your battery die unexpectedly, as shown below:
- Extreme Temperatures: Weather conditions are the most common reasons why batteries keep dying. Compared to the newer ones, older batteries tend to be the most affected, especially if the weather is extreme. Before considering car battery replacement, the best thing to do is troubleshoot or contact a technician.
- Corrosion Buildup: Over time, gases or chemicals can escape from cracks around the terminals. As a result, corrosion can build up when they contact your metals on the terminals.
- Extended Sitting: It goes two ways: either you use it or lose it. You stand to lose your battery if you let it lie idle for extended periods. If you know you won't be driving your vehicle for a long time, it is recommended that the negative terminal be disconnected to avoid draining up
- Age: Modern batteries are designed with a maximum lifetime of 4-5 years. Technically, batteries are made of cells filled with sulfuric acid, and as they age, they go through a process called sulfation, which can cause your battery to stop functioning.
- Parasitic Draw: This term describes vehicle electrical mishaps that can drain your battery even when the engine is off. To avoid parasitic draws, ensure that all the doors are closed and turn off every light.
It is almost inevitable for batteries to die, but you don't want them to do so when every time. This can leave you questioning what causes a car battery to go bad. Ensure you consider the above factors before considering car battery replacement.
Have questions about what causes a car battery to go bad? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about car battery replacement and to schedule an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
