Can Automotive Batteries Get Old

FEBRUARY 17, 2016

Can Automotive Batteries Get Old Tempe, AZ - Bullitt Automotive

Can Automotive Batteries Get Old?



Can Automotive Batteries get old, if you are unsure about the age of your battery, you can start by checking the four- or five-digit date code on your battery case. The first part of the code is where you’ll find the date: look for the letter and number. The letter stands for each month — so “A” is for January, “B” is for February, and so on. The number that follows is for the year: “9” is 2009 and “1” is 2011.


This date tells you when the battery was shipped from the factory to a local wholesale distributor. The additional numbers indicate where it was made. Car batteries usually last from three to five years. But it’s important to look out for signs or warnings that your batteries get old, like, a slow engine crank or low battery fluid. If your battery casing looks bloated or swollen, has a rotten egg smell coming from it, or your check engine light starts coming on — these signs may mean trouble for your battery soon. And, in general, if your battery is over three years old, watch it closely and get it inspected regularly. That’s what we’re here for.

Can Automotive Batteries Get Old Tempe, AZ - Bullitt Automotive

How do I know if my alternator is bad? Here are some of the obvious symptoms that your alternator may have a problem:


  • The electrical system seems possessed suddenly. No, you don’t need to call ghostbusters. Those strange flickering warning lights (like a check engine light that comes on, disappears, and then reappears again) are just a possible indication that the car battery is nearly drained. If the alternator is faulty, your battery will no longer receive a charge and will soon be spent.
  • The engine crank is sluggish. While trying to start your vehicle, it keeps turning and turning, and then eventually starts–or it doesn’t. This could mean your alternator isn’t properly charging your battery. If you also get the “possessed, flickering” warning lights on your dash, please stop in to the closest automotive shop. Your car might be moments away from a dead battery and alternator!


Let’s review: When these issues occur, it can mean the battery is not receiving enough charge because of a faulty alternator. And what’s worse, a faulty alternator will continue to drain your battery. When it drains completely, your car won’t start.


Can a bad battery harm the charging system or starter?


Yes, it can. A bad battery puts additional stress on properly working parts, such as the starter motor, charging system, or starter solenoid. Like when you sprain your ankle and compensate by putting more weight on the other foot.


These other parts malfunction sometimes because extra voltage has to be drawn in order to compensate for the diminished battery power. The longer this goes on, the more likely you will have to replace pricey electrical parts.


Quick Tip: An Electrical System Check ensures all your electrical parts are drawing the correct amount of voltage. Our service technicians can identify any weak parts that require immediate replacement. Small but important inspections like this can save you from having to pay higher repair costs later on.


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