Q&A: Battery Replacement - Don't lose your charge!

Question:
When do I need to replace my battery?

Daddio's OnPoint Auto Repair, LLC Answer:
Well, all batteries wear out and need to be replaced – but some are replaced before their time.

Look, if you often need a jump-start to get rolling, it could very well be that you have a bad battery. If this is your dealio, stop in at Daddio's OnPoint Auto Repair, LLC and have us test the battery to see if it's actually bad. The problem could be parasitic drain or a bad alternator that's not properly charging your battery. Before we recommend a battery replacement, we'll also check your alternator to see if that's the issue. A surprisingly high percentage of “bad” alternators are actually just fine; sometimes the problem is a worn serpentine belt and/or belt tensioner. If the belt is slipping, it's not spinning the alternator properly so it can't fully charge the battery. Knowing what component is actually failing is necessary to ensuring the appropriate repair is made, and the problem resolved.

That brings us back full circle to when batteries do fail. There's a chemical cycle that takes place inside your battery; the battery is discharged when you start the vehicle and is recharged by the alternator when you drive. Short trips around the Stevens Point area with frequent stops and starts may mean that your battery is never fully recharged. When a battery isn't fully charged, parts of the battery harden and are no longer available to “store” electricity. Over time, your battery just can't hold enough charge for the needs of your vehicle. This can put a higher than normal demand on your alternator as it tries to keep up, causing it to wear out prematurely.

Batteries last longer in colder climates and wear out faster in warmer climates. We want to remind you that, on average, 70% of batteries fail within four years. Many automotive experts recommend replacing your battery every five years and while this could be all you need, Daddio's OnPoint suggests you monitor the electrical systems in your vehicle as you start, drive and stop it. If you notice your dashboard lights getting brighter or dimmer, or if you hear a mechanical surge or your radio's sound fades without your help - well, these things could point to an issue with either your battery or your alternator. Should any one of these things be happening, or if you're experiencing intermittent starting, please stop in at Daddio's OnPoint and have us test your battery and alternator. This will reduce the chances of being stranded on the street with a dead battery as well as prevent undue wear on your alternator.

Keeping the charge keeps you on the road. Call us today to schedule your vehicle inspection, we're here weekdays 7a to 5p.

Daddio's OnPoint Auto Repair, LLC
3446 Church Street
Stevens Point, WI 54481
715.575.2055
http://www.daddiosautorepair.com
Facebook: @DaddiosOnPoint

At Daddio's OnPoint Auto Repair, LLC we install quality NAPA replacement parts and offer a 24,000 mile/24 month warranty too.