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How long does it take to fully charge a dead car battery?
The battery in my Toyota died a couple of days ago. I know it's possible to recharge a dead battery, but how long does it take? The car and the battery are both past their sell-by date, and I’m looking to get a new car very soon, so I don't see the point in buying a new battery for a car I’m hoping to scrap. How long will it take to fully charge my dead car battery
Chloe Jenkins · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Recharging a dead car battery with a typical charge amp of around four to eight amperes can take anywhere between 10 and 24 hours to charge fully. If you just want to boost your battery enough to start the engine, it should only take about two to four hours of charge time—or, if possible, you can use another vehicle to
jumpstart your battery
.The two most common ways of recharging a car’s battery are through idling or using a trickle charger:
- Idling: Idling is the simplest way to recharge your car’s battery since it doesn’t require any extra equipment. All you have to do is turn your car on and let it sit—but remember, if your goal is to charge your battery fully, you’ll need to let your car idle for hours. If you do this, be sure to turn off anything else in the car that may require energy, such as the radio, lights, air conditioning, etc.
- Trickle Charger: If you prefer not to let your vehicle idle, you can purchase a trickle charger for between $20 and $100 at any store that sells auto maintenance products. This device delivers electricity to your battery from a power outlet in a slow, steady stream. This tends to be much better for your car since trickle charging usually lets the batteries hold the charge longer.
Whatever method you choose, you’ll know the battery has reached full charge capacity when the current drops to zero.
View full answer
- Gregory R.
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