The average lifespan of a conventional lead-acid automotive battery is between three and five years. AGM batteries, which are ideal for high-performance and start/stop applications, have a lifespan of between five and seven years. Lithium-ion batteries, designed to power electric vehicles, can last up to 20 years.
However, the published lifespan is only an average or estimate. Your battery’s actual longevity depends on a variety of factors, including how it’s maintained, where it’s stored, and how frequently it’s used.
In this article, we will explore seven ways to maximize the life of your automotive battery, from proper charging techniques to ideal storage conditions — and we’ll provide actionable tips to get the most out of your Continental battery.
Not all batteries are created equal. Starting with a high-quality, proven power source goes a long way toward getting the most life out of your battery. Our signature Continental line offers reliable power and performance built to withstand the demands of modern cars, such as frequent engine starts, weather extremes and electrical power usage.
Car batteries expend a significant burst of power every time you start your engine. As you drive, the alternator recharges the battery. Frequent short trips don’t allow for your battery to fully charge, which can weaken it over time.
Any electronic component within your car, including lights, phone chargers or advanced navigation systems, can drain the battery of power — even when the engine is off. This is called parasitic draw, and it can leech power from your battery, reducing its lifespan.
Minimize the risk of parasitic draw by making sure interior lights are off and accessories are unplugged. Turn off the radio and double-check that headlights are off as well.
If you plan to leave your car undriven for weeks or months at a time, remove the battery from your car and store it separately in a cool, dry location. Batteries lose power even when in storage, so if you plan to be gone for more than a month or so, hook it up to a battery tender to keep it charged at the proper level without overcharging.
If you pop the hood and spot white or greenish powder on or around the battery’s terminal, you have corrosion. Corrosion can disrupt the electrical current and lead to increased resistance within the battery, leading to reduced lifespan.
Make sure to clean corrosion as soon as you spot it and check connection points for signs of wear.
Batteries are sensitive to both cold and hot temperatures. They can start to lose power when temperatures drop below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit), and they work best at temperatures around 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you live in a cold climate, protect your battery with a thermal cover. For higher temperatures, be sure to park the vehicle in a shady spot or keep it in a climate-controlled garage to avoid overheating the battery.
Depth of discharge (DOD) refers to the percentage of a battery’s total capacity that has been used in a given cycle. It measures how much energy has been drained relative to the battery’s maximum capacity. For example, if your battery has been depleted by half during one cycle, that corresponds to a 50% DOD. Maintaining a moderate DOD instead of fully depleting
Signs of a Failing Battery
Even if you practice good battery care, every battery has a shelf life. Here are a few signs that your battery may be nearing the end of its life.
The engine won’t turn over. If your engine tries to start but can’t get there, your battery may be to blame — but don’t lose hope! You may be able to get a jump to get your car running. Make sure to let your engine run for 30 minutes or more after jumping so your alternator can do its work charging the battery.
Take your car to a mechanic to confirm whether your battery is the problem or it is another component, like the starter.
It starts one day, not the next. Irregular starting patterns may mean your battery terminals are loose, broken or corroded. Pop the hood and check for frayed or worn cables. Make sure the cables fit securely on the battery posts, and they aren’t loose. If you find damaged cables, replace them right away.
Slow starts. It’s normal for batteries to have a slow start in extremely cold temperatures. But if you’re getting that below-zero sluggish feeling even when the temperature warms up, it may be time to replace your battery.
You keep having the jump-start. If you have to jump your vehicle more than three times in a single week, it's time to replace your battery.
Visible damage. Often, corrosion can be cleaned, but if you see other visual signs of damage like cracks, bulging or warping, or if you smell a rotten egg odor, don’t drive. Remove the battery right away and replace it with a fresh one.
Age. If the battery is nearing its average lifespan and you’re seeing other signs that it is weakening, start shopping for a replacement to avoid being stuck with a dead battery.
Maintenance Makes for a Long Life
Practicing regular battery maintenance ensures your automotive battery will live a long and powerful life. When it’s time to swap it out, make sure to dispose of your battery responsibly. Drop it off at any Continental Battery Systems location, where it will be sent off for recycling.
