Car batteries have been designed for cars of all shapes and sizes. Over time and the constant improvement in car battery technologies, they have retained the same format for most of that time, even though today’s cars are very much different from how they were 20 or 30 years ago.

As with many other car components, it's important for you to be aware of your car battery's optimal lifespan and to know when it’s time to either replace or at the least service your car battery!

That being said, most car batteries out there will have a lifespan of between 1 to 2 years in average everyday conditions. Of course, this will depend on the brand of the car battery - quality car battery brands generally do much better.

For example, Amaron's Absorbet Glass Mat (AGM) lead-acid batteries can last a whopping 4 years and above - these are perfect for continental or luxury sedans that require higher-spec batteries. While they are currently unavailable in Malaysia as of now, other Amaron batteries can last for more than 2 years on average.

Other car battery brands in Malaysia include Varta, Banner or Century - these are quality car battery brands you can trust as well.

Factors that could shorten the lifespan of your car battery

1. Personal driving and car usage habits

Did you know that the frequent starting of the engine as well as initiating the on-and-off engine cycles can cause increased drainage in car batteries?

To make sure your car battery lifespan lasts as long as possible, it's important to avoid this habit and consult with your mechanic to check on the electrical system of your car regularly and watch out for any signs of warning.

2. Taking frequent short trips and cold starts

As mentioned above, starting your car demands a lot of electrical power from your car battery. However, even more power is needed if your engine is started when it is cold.

With the help of today's alternators, the car's battery can be recharged in just a few minutes, but the battery’s age and discharge can affect it.

If you have a cold start and you take frequent short trips, then you’re causing more damage to your battery. Short trips allow no time for your battery to be recharged since the engine was not able to warm up properly. 

This can greatly damage the car’s battery and result in failure.

3. Abnormally hot weather

Lead batteries, as most of our Malaysian cars on the road use, works best in temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. Intense, hot temperatures under the scorching sun can often lead to serious damage to your car's battery.

The best way to avoid this is to find a shaded parking lot or find covered and underground parking lots. This way, you can prolong the life of your car’s battery.

4. There is moisture or corrosion in the engine bay 

Electrical shorts and many other power issues may occur if there is moisture or corrosion under the hood of the car and in the engine bay.

This resulting corrosion can be formed on the electrical connectors and different terminals on your car's battery, effectively reduce your car battery lifespan.

Ways to extend your car battery's lifespan

1.Always keep your car battery tightly fastened

An unsecured car battery could vibrate violently and result in internal damage or short circuits.

It is also highly recommended to have your battery terminal regularly checked, especially for drivers who are frequently passing bumpy or rough roads to ensure that your car battery is tightly and properly secured in the mounting bracket.

2. Always be sure to turn off all electronics and headlights when exiting the car

Keeping your headlights and car door lights on, even accidentally, puts a heavy toll on your car battery lifespan.

This is one of the most common reasons why car batteries don't last long and need to be serviced or replaced. 

3. Clean the corrosion frequently

It is an inescapable fact that car battery terminals will corrode over time. However, keeping them clean from buildup is a great way to extend the lifespan of your car battery.

To do this, you can simply scrub the terminals with a toothbrush dipped in a baking soda and water mixture. Next, use a spray bottle with cold water and rinse the mixture off. Lastly, it's important to ensure you perform a thorough drying with a dry, clean cloth!

4. Check, test and service your car battery regularly

Keeping up to date with the condition of your car battery and its lifespan matters most if you'd like to maximize your car battery lifespan.

You can test your battery’s output voltage level with a car battery tester to keep track of your car battery status - or just call in the experts!

Rain or shine, day or night, Ex Power delivers car batteries or repair services to your doorstep

Facing car battery issues? With Ex Power's all-day roadside assistance, you'll have immediate car battery repair and replacement services exactly when and where you need them! Our services come with:

✓ Free installation

✓ Free checking

✓ Free delivery

Check us out at https://www.expower.com.my/ or call us now at +6010 888 9166