A recent survey by Kwik Fit found that battery failure is the most common cause of car breakdown in the UK. More than 17% of all issues faced by car owners were battery-related. However, only 4% of them were worried about battery failure. So, by understanding how long do car batteries last, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and keep your vehicle running smoothly.
In this comprehensive car battery guide, we’ll answer your most frequently asked questions about the lifespan of a car battery. So, without any further ado, let’s get started!
The lifespan of a conventional car battery typically ranges from 2 to 5 years or 30,000 to 50,000 miles. It is a very wide range given that the battery life depends on several factors, including the type of battery, driving conditions, maintenance practices, and climate.
For example, batteries in cars driven mostly on short trips may not fully recharge, while batteries in vehicles parked for extended periods naturally self-discharge. Additionally, extreme temperatures can accelerate battery degradation.
Electric car batteries can last significantly longer than conventional car batteries. The average lifespan of an EV battery is 10-15 years or up to 200,000 miles. But again, it varies with factors such as driving habits, EV battery charging time, and environmental conditions. Things like frequent use of fast charging and extreme temperatures can accelerate EV battery degradation.
Hybrid car batteries typically last between 5 and 8 years or 75,000-100,000 miles. This lifespan is longer than that of conventional car batteries but shorter than that of electric car batteries. Hybrid car batteries are somewhat similar to electric car batteries, which generally have higher capacities. However, due to the added complexity of hybrid powertrains, they usually don’t last as long.
Car batteries have a limited lifespan due to a combination of factors:
Here are some other issues that can be confused for a dead car battery:
If you experience any of these symptoms, your battery is likely going bad:
Car batteries can go bad due to a variety of factors, including:
Here are some tips to extend the life of your car battery:
The average cost to replace a car battery in the UK is £150 and typically lies between £100 and £200 depending upon your battery size and model. You can expect to pay between £3,000 to £15,000 for electric car batteries, whereas a hybrid car battery costs around £2,000. The battery prices for electric and hybrid cars vary widely due to variations in size.
An important thing to remember about battery replacement is that insurance companies see them as part of regular maintenance, so they don’t usually cover it. You have to cover the battery replacement cost for all cars from your pocket unless there’s some warranty left on it.
The condition of a car battery can affect the car’s value, but usually, it is no more than 2-3% because it is an inexpensive replacement. Many car batteries come with warranties that cover defects or premature failure. So, if a battery is still under warranty, it can usually be replaced at no cost.
If you’re worried about the current valuation of your car, our car valuation tool can help you get a more accurate estimate of your car’s worth.
By following the tips and information provided in this guide, you can help extend the lifespan of your battery and ensure you’re always ready to hit the road.
Always remember that regular maintenance is the key to avoiding car issues. By regularly maintaining your battery, you can enjoy a longer car battery life.
Please explore our website for more information on car-selling, buying, and maintenance-related tips.
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