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How often should you change the car battery?

Is there a standard amount of time I should wait before I change my car battery? I’ve been noticing some weird stuff when starting my car lately, but I don’t think my battery is old enough to need to be replaced.

avatar
Liz Jenson · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Usually, it’s recommended that you should change your car battery every three years. However, there are factors that can cause your battery to go bad more quickly, so it’s good that you’re checking it out! Some signs that you need to replace your battery include:
  • Your car has trouble starting. Your battery plays a big role in starting your vehicle, so problems with starting your car can often be attributed to the battery.
  • You get a
    warning light
    . Some warning lights will tell you that you need to replace your car battery, but they could also be indicating a more serious problem.
  • Your headlights flicker or dim. This is a sign that your battery is weakening, especially if it happens when your car is starting or idling.
  • Your battery looks swollen or corroded. If you notice that your battery is corroded, larger than normal, or has fluid leaking from it, it’s probably time to get a replacement.
Battery problems can cause a lot of anxiety since no one wants to be stranded with a dead car. That’s why
Jerry
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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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