Why Your Car Battery Keeps Dying (And What to Do About It)
By NorTech Services
If your car battery keeps dying, it’s more than just a bad morning—it could be a sign of an underlying issue.
There’s nothing worse than getting into your car, turning the key (or pushing the button), and hearing that dreaded click-click-click sound. But before you blame the battery, let’s dig into the real reasons your battery might be dying—and what you can do about it.
Common Causes of a Dying Car Battery
1. Old Age
Like everything else in life, car batteries have a shelf life. Most car batteries last 3-5 years. If your battery is approaching this age, it may be on its last legs.
- What to Do: Have your battery tested. Many auto parts stores offer free battery testing to check if it’s still holding a charge.
2. Leaving Electronics On
We’ve all been guilty of leaving the radio, lights, or a GPS plugged in after turning off the engine. These parasitic loads drain your battery, especially if the engine is off for extended periods.
- What to Do: Get into the habit of turning off all electronics when you leave your car, and double-check before you exit. If you forget, use the “two-click rule” to ensure everything is off.
3. Alternator Problems
Your car’s alternator charges the battery while the engine runs. If the alternator is malfunctioning, it won’t charge the battery properly, leading to constant battery drain.
- What to Do: If your lights are dimming, or if the battery warning light is on, the alternator could be the culprit. A mechanic can test the alternator to make sure it’s charging correctly.
4. Corroded Battery Terminals
Corrosion around your battery terminals (the posts where cables connect) can cause poor electrical connections, preventing your car from charging the battery effectively.
- What to Do: Inspect the battery terminals regularly. If you see any corrosion, clean it off carefully with a mixture of baking soda and water. Always wear gloves and goggles to protect yourself from acid.
5. Frequent Short Trips
Frequent, short trips (less than 20 minutes) don’t give the alternator enough time to fully charge the battery. Over time, this leads to an undercharged battery, especially in colder months.
- What to Do: If your driving patterns include a lot of short trips, consider driving for longer stretches when possible to give your alternator time to recharge the battery fully.
6. Extreme Temperatures
Both extreme cold and extreme heat can take a toll on a car battery. Cold weather can cause the battery to lose charge, while excessive heat can cause the battery fluid to evaporate, leading to battery failure.
- What to Do: If you live in a region with extreme temperatures, consider using a battery insulation blanket to protect it. Additionally, have your battery tested before the seasonal shifts.
7. Loose or Faulty Battery Cables
If the cables connecting your battery to the rest of the car’s electrical system are loose, broken, or frayed, your battery won’t be able to perform efficiently.
- What to Do: Have the battery cables checked and tightened. If the cables are damaged, they’ll need to be replaced.
What to Do If Your Battery Keeps Dying
If you’ve experienced more than one instance of a dead battery, here’s what you should do:
1. Get Your Battery Tested
If you’re unsure whether it’s the battery itself or another issue, start by getting your battery tested at a local auto parts store or mechanic.
2. Check the Alternator
A working alternator is essential for keeping your battery charged. If your alternator is failing, it needs to be replaced. If the alternator is good, check your battery cables for corrosion or damage.
3. Look for Parasitic Drain
If your battery is being drained by something electrical in the car (like a light or stereo), a mechanic can perform a “parasitic draw test” to pinpoint the source of the drain.
4. Replace the Battery
If the battery is old, or failing the test, it might be time to replace it. Be sure to choose a battery that fits your car’s requirements.
How to Prolong the Life of Your Car Battery
- Regularly check the battery for signs of wear and corrosion.
- Keep the battery clean—wiping off dirt and corrosion can improve the life and efficiency.
- Check the charge—if you’re getting an inspection or oil change, ask the mechanic to check your battery’s charge.
- Drive longer distances—give your battery a full charge by driving at least 20 minutes once a week.
- Park in a garage or shaded area—extreme temperatures can cause more wear on your battery.
Need a Battery Replacement or Test? Call NorTech!
If you’ve tried all the tips and your car battery is still unreliable, it may be time to replace it. At NorTech, we offer quick, professional car battery testing, replacement, and installation services to keep you on the road with no interruptions.
