A dead battery is one of the most common reasons cars fail to start, and it often happens without warning. But just like your tires or brakes, your battery’s condition can be checked and maintained to help avoid those sudden, inconvenient breakdowns. The good news is, battery checks don’t take long, and knowing how often to do them can save you time and frustration down the road.
Here’s what you should know about how frequently to check your car’s battery health, and why it matters more than you might think.
Why Battery Health Checks Are So Important
Your car's battery does more than just start the engine. It powers your lights, infotainment system, and all the electronics that keep you comfortable and safe. Over time, batteries naturally wear out, especially in extreme weather conditions or stop-and-go traffic environments like Burbank.
A weak battery can still start your car one day and leave you stranded the next. That's why it's better to stay ahead of potential issues with regular inspections.
When to Check Your Battery
As a general rule, you should check your car's battery at least twice a year. A good time to do this is at the beginning of summer and again before winter. These seasons put the most stress on your battery due to heat and cold extremes.
You should also have it checked if you notice:
- The engine cranks slower than usual
- Headlights dim when you start the car
- Warning lights appear on the dashboard
- The battery is over three years old
Many drivers overlook battery checks until it’s too late. But catching an aging battery early can prevent unexpected failure.
How a Battery Test Works
Battery testing is a simple, quick process that tells a lot about your vehicle's electrical health. Our technicians use specialized equipment to measure the voltage output, cold cranking amps (CCA), and internal resistance. These readings show whether your battery is still strong or nearing the end of its life.
We also inspect the battery terminals and cables for corrosion or looseness, which can cause intermittent starting problems even if the battery itself is still good.
The Impact of Short Trips and Stop-and-Go Driving
If you primarily use your vehicle for short trips around Burbank, your battery may not get fully recharged between starts. Over time, this kind of usage can shorten the battery’s lifespan. It’s a good idea to let your vehicle run longer on occasion or combine short errands into one trip to help the alternator keep the battery properly charged.
Heat and Battery Wear
Many people assume cold weather is the main culprit behind battery failure, but heat is just as damaging. High temperatures under the hood can cause battery fluid to evaporate, which leads to internal damage and faster deterioration.
That’s why battery checks during warmer months are especially important in Southern California. Even if the battery starts fine, high heat over time can reduce its reliability.
Replacement vs. Recharging
Not all weak batteries need immediate replacement. Sometimes the issue is due to a drained battery that can be safely recharged. But if the battery consistently tests low or struggles to hold a charge, it’s a sign that replacement is the safer choice.
A technician can help determine whether recharging is enough or if a new battery is the better option to ensure reliability.
Keep a Record of Battery Age
Most car batteries last about three to five years, depending on the climate and usage. If you don’t remember when your current battery was installed, check for a date code on the battery casing. If it’s approaching three years or more, it’s time to start testing it regularly.
Even if everything seems fine now, battery performance can drop quickly with age. Planning ahead gives you more control and avoids the hassle of being stuck with a car that won’t start.
Battery Inspections at Eurozone Motors in Burbank, CA
If you’re not sure about the condition of your battery, our team at Eurozone Motors in Burbank can help. We provide fast, accurate battery checks and expert recommendations based on your vehicle’s needs. Whether it’s a quick test or a full replacement, we’ll make sure you’re ready for the road ahead.
Stop by for a battery inspection and stay confident behind the wheel.
