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Battery Replacement Cost Estimate
Battery Replacement Cost Estimate
Worried you might overpay for your battery replacement? Use Jerry's GarageGuard to get fair cost estimate for your battery replacement.
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John Davis
Expert Automotive Writer
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear, Director of Content
Edited by R.E. Fulton, Licensed Insurance Agent —Senior Content Writer
How much does it cost to replace a battery?
You can expect an average total cost of $199 for a battery replacement, with $142 for parts and $58 for mechanic labor. But that’s just an estimate—your exact total will depend on your vehicle's make and model.
How long does it take to replace a battery? A certified mechanic generally takes around 0.5 hours hours to complete a battery replacement. They’ll check the health of your battery, first, and replace it if necessary.
Here’s an overview of the car battery replacement costs for different vehicles:
| Estimate Date | Customer | Car | Fair Cost Estimate | Parts Cost | Labor Cost | Labor Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
November 23, 2024 | Calvin, 21 Kansas City, KS | Mazda 3 | $207 | $169 | $38 | 0.3 Hours |
November 17, 2024 | Ollie, 31 El Paso, TX | Alfa Romeo Stelvio | $208 | $169 | $39 | 0.3 Hours |
November 15, 2024 | Pearl, 34 High Point, NC | BMW 740 | $204 | $169 | $35 | 0.3 Hours |
November 14, 2024 | Amy, 37 Bellevue, WA | Mini Cooper | $208 | $169 | $39 | 0.3 Hours |
November 14, 2024 | Amanda, 35 San Francisco, CA | Chrysler PT Cruiser | $211 | $169 | $42 | 0.3 Hours |
How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.
How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.
See fair price estimates for popular cars
What parts do I need for a battery replacement and how much do they cost?
You’ll want to confirm exactly what you’ll need with your owner’s manual or mechanic—but here’s a general overview of what you’ll need to replace your car’s battery:
- Replacement battery: The battery is the main component in the replacement. Two cables connect to your battery—the positive cable's end (usually red) connects to your vehicle’s engine's alternator and the second cable (usually black) is a ground cable connecting the battery's negative terminal to the car's body. The average cost for a replacement battery is between $100 and $200. When replacing a car battery, we recommend well-regarded brands like Optima, DieHard, ACDelco, and Exide, as they are known for their reliability.
- Ratcheting wrench set: Grab a socket wrench to loosen the nut on the black or negative terminal of the vehicle’s battery. You’ll need to try a few sizes to determine which fits the battery’s bolt best. Wrench sets vary in price but typically cost between $50 and $500, depending on the brand. For quality ratcheting wrench sets for automotive tasks we recommend, GearWrench, Craftsman, Tekton, and Husky.
- Safety glasses: Always protect your eyes when doing car maintenance. Safety glasses typically cost between $10 and $50. When selecting safety glasses for automotive tasks, we recommend 3M , DEWALT, Uvex, and NoCry. These brands ensure quality eye protection for common car maintenance tasks.
- Battery cleaner and battery terminal cleaner (wire brush): Corrosion can damage the battery terminals so you’ll want to clean the terminals before installing a new battery. Battery cleaner costs around $5, while a wire brush costs between $5 and $10. We recommend well-regarded brands such as CRC, B'laster, and Permatex for battery cleaner, and Wurth for dependable terminal cleaning products.
- You can also use a hammer to gently tap the battery terminal cables to help loosen them from the terminal post.
Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?
When it comes to replacing your battery, OEM parts are more reliable. While aftermarket batteries are widely available and are often cheaper, they could cost you more in the long run as they may not be the right size or type for your vehicle. OEM batteries are designed specifically for your vehicle make and model—and while they may cost you more upfront, they offer greater reliability.
If you opt for an aftermarket battery, ensure it’s compatible with your vehicle before you make the purchase.
Where can I buy parts for my battery replacement?
You can purchase batteries online through auto parts stores like AutoZone. You can also find them on Amazon and at big-box stores like Costco and Walmart. Check your vehicle’s owner's manual for the specifics of your battery. For an EV battery replacement, contact your dealership for details.
Where can i get my battery replaced?
Without a trusted mechanic, figuring out where to get your battery replaced can be tricky. Jerry's
GarageGuard™
can help you compare costs from over 2,500 vetted repair shops in the US. GarageGuard™ uses real hourly labor costs to get you fair price estimates from local shops. You’ll know if you need to budget for diagnostic fees and see real reviews from customers to help you select the best service.
Check out some of our vetted shops below and download the app to compare car repair quotes in your area.
160 Reviews
O'Brien's Auto Repair LLC
46 Bayshore Rd, Green Creek, NJ
Battery Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$266
(Parts - $166, Labor - $100)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$130154 Reviews
61 Auto Center
1226 Centre Ave, Reading, PA
Battery Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$216
(Parts - $166, Labor - $50)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$70188 Reviews
Speedee Tire & Auto Care
999 Duluth Hwy, Lawrenceville, GA
Battery Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$285
(Parts - $166, Labor - $119)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$129169 Reviews
Discount Tire & Service Centers - Clovis 2
698 W Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA
Battery Replacement Cost
Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop
$291
(Parts - $166, Labor - $125)
Shop Diagnostic Fee
(Included in service charges)
$140How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.
How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.
How will a mechanic replace my battery?
When a mechanic is replacing a failing automotive battery, they will follow these steps:
- Attach a temporary power source to the vehicle
- Identify the positive and negative posts and the respective cables
- Use a wrench to loosen the nut or bolt securing the negative terminal and cable to the negative battery post
- Use a terminal puller to remove the cable and terminal from the negative battery post, then repeat with the positive terminal
- Remove the clamp or tiedown system holding the battery in place
- Remove the battery
- Inspect and repair any corrosion
- Position the battery correctly—red with red, black with black
- Insert the new battery and secure it with the clamp or tiedown system
What happens if I don’t replace my battery?
A dying battery can hamper your car’s alternator, which can overload your vehicle’s electrical system, including the anti-theft system, shift interlock, and electronic fuel injection system. Simply put, your car’s battery is vital to the proper functioning and safety of your vehicle.
What is a car battery replacement?
The battery in a vehicle is designed to power all the electrical components in your vehicle.
In simple terms, your car battery is the device that essentially starts a chain reaction inside your vehicle’s engine bay to start your car. The battery sends an electric current to your starting motor, which engages your vehicle’s ignition and fuel systems.
But when your car battery ages and its capacity decreases, you might run into problems on the road, including trouble starting your car as well as issues with the vehicle’s electrical components. When this happens, you’ll need to replace it.
There are two main types of batteries: flooded and AGM batteries.
- Most modern cars use flooded cell batteries, which have a liquid electrolyte and can be replenished with distilled water
- Sealed versions where the liquid doesn’t need replacing have become popular in recent years
How do I know if my car battery capacity is decreasing or dead?
There are a few tell-tale signs that your car battery needs replacing:
- Your car won’t start: As your car battery ages, the cranking amps required to start it can drop. If they fall below the threshold needed to start your battery (and thus your car) and you can’t jump start it, you won’t be going anywhere until you replace your battery.
- Warning light: If you see a battery warning light illuminated on your car’s display, that’s a sign that your battery is failing. Bring your car to a mechanic to run tests to see how much life (if any) your battery has left to live.
- Electrical components not working: Another key sign of battery failure is if any key electrical components—your vehicle’s anti-theft system, for example—stop working. Usually, this happens as a battery decays and its voltage output drops.
How often should a car battery be replaced?
As with any other vehicle part, the battery will eventually need replacing—usually every four to seven years. When your car battery ages and its capacity decreases, you might run into problems on the road, including trouble starting your car and issues with the vehicle’s electrical components.
Can I replace my car battery myself?
Replacing your car’s battery is a simple process that takes just a few tools and a few minutes. Whether you have auto repair experience or not, you can easily find instructions on the web for disconnecting an older battery and reconnecting a new one.
If you’re not comfortable performing a battery change or you have an electric vehicle (EV), it’s best to ask for help from a professional.
Replacing an EV battery is more complicated and likely can’t be done at home. Instead, you’ll need to book a replacement service with a professional. In most cases, your electric car battery will be covered under the warranty offered by your dealership.
FAQs
Can I drive with a bad battery?
Although it’s possible to drive with a bad battery, it’s not recommended. A bad battery interrupts the function of the alternator, which can overload your vehicle’s electrical system. Because the battery is vital to the proper function and safety of your vehicle, you should replace your battery immediately if it’s starting to fail.
What’s the lifespan of a car battery?
The average new car battery lasts about three years, but it can range from two to six years depending on the battery and your driving habits. After three years, you may start to see a measurable decrease in performance.
You can gauge the life of your battery by looking at its warranty.
Will my car shut off if the battery dies?
The battery is responsible for powering your car while it’s running. If it dies, your vehicle will eventually shut off.
What are the symptoms of a bad battery?
If you’re wondering whether your car battery is completely gone, here are some symptoms to keep an eye out for:
- Corrosion on the battery connectors
- Warped battery case
- Rotten egg smell under the hood
- Dim headlights
- Electrical issues
- Slow-starting engine
- Frequent jumps
- Check engine light illuminated
- Clicking when you turn the key in the ignition
Meet Our Experts
John Davis
Car Expert
Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience
John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.
Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.
Jessica Barrett
Car Expert
Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.
Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.
Kathleen Flear
Car Expert
Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.
*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.