The battery in your car provides power for many things. From starting your car, to turning on your lights, to cranking the air conditioner in the summer, you need a healthy car battery to enjoy nearly every part of your drive.

There are a few telltale signs that reveal when your car’s battery needs service. The service team at Martin Nissan has compiled the answers below to common questions about car batteries, plus warning signs to look for that may indicate your battery is on its last legs.

Common Car Battery Q & As

When does a car battery need to be changed?

This varies greatly depending on where you live, the way you drive your car, and what model of car you own. Batteries can last anywhere from three to six years, but to be safe you should check with Martin Nissan after four years to see if you might need a replacement.

My battery warning light came on. Should I be worried?

The warning light shaped like a battery indicates that your car charging system is not correctly working. Though this may not directly mean there is a problem with your battery, it does mean you are at risk of being unable to operate all of your car’s systems simultaneously.

This light means your alternator is not generating enough energy to be able to power your car and also recharge your battery. Bring your vehicle to Martin Nissan if this light is on so that we can make sure you are able to use your car the way you like.

What drains car batteries?

The three most common causes are:

1. User error like leaving your lights on.
2. A parasitic drain that keeps using your battery even after you turn your car or systems off.
3. A bad charging system.

Are car battery chargers good?

Having a car battery charger is great in case of emergency, but if you find yourself relying on one, you should have your battery checked out.

How can I tell when my car battery might be dying?

Here are some signals that may indicate it’s time to get a new battery at Martin Nissan:

• Engine is slow to start
• Other electrical components (e.g. windows, windshield wipers, etc.) do not function properly
• Illuminated dashboard battery warning light
• It’s been a few years since you last had the battery changed

Have more questions or want to schedule battery service? Reach out to our expert maintenance team at Old Orchard Nissan. We are fully equipped to provide you with fast, quality assistance, and complete your battery repair or replacement if needed.

Our dealership is conveniently located at 5240 Golf Road in Skokie, Illinois. If it’s time for a service appointment, stop in and see us today or give our service team a call at (866) 200-4000.