Is your battery losing its spark? A weak battery can put extra stress on your vehicle's charging system, including the starter and motor. Watch and learn the signs of a battery in need of replacement.
The average battery will last three to five years, but you can ensure that your battery’s lifespan will be in the higher end of that range with these tips.
A dirty battery casing may result in short circuits, while build-up on your battery terminals can cause corrosion. Periodically wipe down your battery and scrub the terminals with a baking soda paste to keep it clean.
Your battery recharges as you drive. If you take frequent trips that are too short for your battery to recharge fully, the voltage will eventually drop until it can no longer start the vehicle.
Before you start your vehicle, make sure that any features that can draw power during start-up, such as seat heaters, climate control, stereo systems and lights, are turned off.
Heat is hard on batteries, as it increases the rate of water evaporation from the battery’s cells. Park your vehicle out of the sun and consider insulating your battery from the heat generated by your engine.
Use an approved clamp to hold your battery in place. When your battery vibrates too aggressively, internal components may become damaged, leading to short circuits and a lowered lifespan.
Regularly check your battery by connecting it to a voltmeter. A sufficient charge is 12.5 volts or more; any lower and it should be recharged immediately. If it doesn’t hold a charge, your battery will need to be replaced.
Generally, a battery provided by your vehicle manufacturer or an original equipment manufacturer will be specifically designed for your vehicle, ensuring a seamless replacement. Mopar® stocks batteries for current-model FCA US LLC vehicles, so you can find the right one for your needs.
If your battery has no charge at all, you can use a battery charger to recharge it. Check the instructions on your charger and make sure that your vehicle and the charger are off before connecting any cables.
Look for signs that your battery may be nearing the end of its life, like electrical issues, a slow-starting engine or a check engine light on your display. When examining the battery directly, look for corrosion on the terminals, a sulfurous smell that could indicate leakage or a bloated or swollen battery case.
If your battery needs to be recharged, you can purchase a charger that will work for your specific model through Mopar® Parts and Accessories.
Get your battery levels tested and get it recharged right on the spot if necessary.
If your battery is near the end of its life, we can replace it for you while you wait.
With brands like Mopar® and Magneti Marelli Powered by Mopar, we’ve got you covered for your battery needs. Talk to our expert technicians about the types of batteries available for your vehicle.
Be sure to check out our latest offers regularly. It's the easiest way to save money while maintaining your vehicle.
