How Long Do Car Batteries Last?

In partnership with Otogo.ca

Because of particularly harsh winters, most motorists on Québec roads are aware of the importance of having a powerful battery (here, we’re talking about your conventional 12 V battery found on traditional vehicles, not about the high-tension battery found on electric vehicles). Is yours in good shape? How long does such a battery typically lasts?

It’s not rare for batteries to last over a full decade, and even in Québec, the average lifespan of a battery is about 5 years. That being said, many factors have to be accounted for, like where the car is parked during winter (outside or in an indoor garage) and how much the electrical circuits are solicited.

This means that if you do frequent short trips with many frequent stops and engine shutoffs, instead of long highway trips, for example, you can negatively impact the lifespan of your car battery.

You can always verify the tension of your battery using a voltmeter. When the engine is off, the voltage needs to be between 12.3 and 12.6 volts, and when the engine is running, the tension has to be between 13 and 15 volts. If this isn’t the case, then there’s a problem with your battery that needs your attention.

You don’t own a voltmeter? Make an appointment with your mechanic to test the battery, ideally at the same time you install your winter tires or do your regular maintenance. A battery diagnosis only takes a few minutes.

“The car battery is sneaky: it degrades during summer when it's hot outside, but doesn’t show any signs of weakness as long as you don’t ask too much of its power. Until the first cold morning… when it suddenly decides not to show up to work,” explains CAA-Québec.

Think about it before winter gets here!