Ultimate Guide to Car Battery Lifespan in the UK: What You Need to Know
Most drivers rarely encounter their car's battery because the majority of issues tend to be dealt with by mechanics. But, what are factors that impact the lifespan of a car battery, how can you extend this lifespan, what are the signs a battery needs replacing, and how long should a car battery last in the UK?
Factors influencing car battery lifespan
There are a number of factors that can affect the lifespan of a car battery. The main ones are climate, driving style/habits, vehicle type, battery quality, and vibrations.
Climate
Climate is a factor that can significantly reduce the lifespan of a car battery. Extreme heat can cause the battery's fluid to evaporate, reducing capacity. Lower temperatures can affect and slow down the chemical reactions that are needed for the battery to work effectively.
Driving style and habits
Driving style and habits, and the way in which you use your car, can also affect the battery's lifespan. If you make frequent but shorter trips, this can put a strain on the battery. Longer drives on motorways/dual carriageways are generally better for battery life as they enable it to recharge fully. Aggressive driving and driving at excessive speeds can also decrease the lifespan.
Vehicle type
Different cars have different requirements in terms of power, and this impacts battery lifespan. Larger vehicles will tend to drain the battery more rapidly than smaller ones although the battery will be sized accordingly. Vehicles with lots of electronic features may also do the same.
Battery quality
The quality of the battery plays a significant role in its longevity. Higher-quality (more expensive) batteries tend to last longer, provided that they are well maintained.
Vibrations
Vibration from rough roads, heavy-handed driving, or incorrectly inflated tyres can damage the internal components of the battery which can subsequently negatively impact the lifespan.
If you should need new tyres, Protyre stocks a vast range, including models from the major brands such as Pirelli, Falken, and Bridgestone. You can also book a tyre fitting at the same time.
Key signs that a battery is dying
Modern cars have a battery warning light on the dashboard. If this comes on, you can check the battery yourself or take it to a garage for a professional to check. Protyre garages offer a free battery safety check which only takes a few minutes. You can simply find your nearest Protyre and book this check online or over the phone.
FAQs: lifespan of car batteries
How long do car batteries last in the UK?
Taking all factors into account, in the UK, you can expect a battery to last between three and six years. Higher-quality brands will last longer, as will those that are well-maintained. Batteries in hybrids and EVs may last considerably longer.
What types of car battery are there?
There are many different types of car battery available. The main options are Lead Acid batteries, VRLA batteries, Lithium-Ion batteries, Sodium-Ion batteries, Solid-State batteries, NiMH batteries, and Silver Calcium batteries. Lead Acid batteries are by far the most-common.
Can I replace the battery myself?
Changing a car battery is quite a complex task in many modern vehicles, so you should only attempt it if you have the requisite skills, knowledge, and equipment. While the battery voltage may not be particularly high (usually 12v), the current is extremely high in order to deliver sufficient energy for the starter motor.
BATTERY SHOCKS CAN BE LETHAL - ALWAYS EXERCISE EXTREME CARE WHEN HANDLING AND NEVER TOUCH THE TERMINALS WITHOUT PROTECTION.
