Like many components of your vehicle, the battery does not last forever. Depending on use, climate, and other factors, the average lifespan of a car battery is three to five years. If you are wondering if you need a new battery for 2013 Nissan Rogue or other vehicle, there are various warning signs that indicate your current battery is losing its charge. However, not all dying batteries give warning signs, so it is a good idea to get yours tested after a few years.
Battery Testing at 3 Years Old
Although the standard answer to the question ‘how long do car batteries last‘ is three to five years, it can vary drastically. Some things that wear down a battery faster than usual are extreme temperatures, long durations of no use, and frequent short drives.
To minimize the chances of your battery not working and you getting stuck somewhere, it is a good idea to be proactive and begin testing your battery after you have had it for three years. The good news is that many auto shops perform this service for free. If your battery has a full charge, you can probably wait to test it every six months or so.
Battery Signs to Keep in Mind
If you notice any of these signs, it is time to start thinking of replacing the battery.
Slow-cranking Engine
The battery provides electricity for the engine to start. If the battery is low on charge, this causes the engine to crank slower than normal. If this occurs, you should bring your vehicle in as soon as possible, as you should replace the battery before it dies completely.
Dim Headlights
Another common sign of a dying battery is that your exterior headlights are dimmer than usual. If you notice this, it is a good idea to check the battery’s charge.
Issues with Electrical Components
The battery provides power to the electrical components, such as the power locks or windows, radio, windshield wipers, and dashboard lights. A battery with a low charge will not be able to deliver full power to these mechanisms. If they flicker before starting, act up, or not work at all, it may be due to the battery.
Issues with the Smell or Look of the Battery
You should occasionally visually inspect the battery, as there are certain indications that it needs to be replaced. If you notice that the battery is swollen and the terminals are corroded, this means there is an issue with the chemical reactions that occur inside the battery. It can occur in extreme cold and hot temperatures as well as in other situations, and you should replace it soon.
You should not be able to smell your battery at all. So, if you notice that it smells like sulfur, better described as rotten eggs, this means that sulfuric acid is being released. If not addressed right away, this acid can begin to affect other parts of the vehicle. Get to your local shop right away and use the VIN decoder to find the right battery for your car.
