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How do I know if a car battery needs to be replaced?
My car has been slow to start sometimes. I don’t know if it’s a problem with the battery or something else. Help! How do I know if a car battery needs to be replaced?
Bonnie Stinson · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Sorry to hear about your car troubles! Slow starting is a good indicator your battery needs to be replaced, but to confirm, you should also look out for electrical problems.
You’re right about one thing: It can be very tricky to determine whether your battery or some other part is causing problems. Slow starts could be caused by a bad battery, a bad alternator, or even a faulty starter.
Here are a few key signs that your battery is at fault:
- Slow starts in very hot and very cold weather
- Dim or flickering lights
- No dashboard lights, or slow to illuminate
- Battery light is illuminated
While your battery can last for many years, experts recommend replacing car batteries every three to four years. If it’s been a while since you replaced the battery, it might be time for a replacement. This service can cost about $200, including labor.
Before you book the replacement, bring your car to a mechanic for an assessment. A skilled professional can use a tool like a multimeter to measure your battery’s voltage.
Car ownership can be stressful! But
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- Gregory R.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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