Battery

Batteries can typically last about 3-5 years. If you notice your trouble starting your engine, headlights flickering or a light on your dashboard, or loss of accessory power, bring your vehicle into the shop to prevent a dead battery. An honest assessment can be done with a simple test to gauge your car's battery life.

SoCal Auto has expert knowledge in battery repair and replacement.

Battery Replacement Information

When to replace your battery

Your vehicle's battery has a terminal life span. Improper charging, flattening the charge, heat or vibration all reduce the life of a battery. Your engine may not start in low temperatures because battery is not holding its charge. A fully functioning battery supplies about 12.6 volts. If this falls to 12.0 volts, the state of charge drops by 75%.

Sometimes it may be a fault in the alternator which will not give the battery a correct charge.

Battery types

It is very important to have the exact specification battery for your car otherwise it will result in failure of the battery at an early stage. The main cost of the battery is the lead content. Beware of low cost batteries as they may not have the lead content required and will fail quickly.

Benefits of checking your battery

Peace of mind knowing your car will start reliably. Measuring actual battery performance against specified levels predicts if it may fail in the near future so you can replace your battery before this happens.

Starting / Charging

The engine’s rotating crankshaft produces a charge that the alternator turns into DC voltage. Without an alternator, the battery won’t charge your accessory components such as your headlights and radio won’t function. You won’t be able to start your engine or your car may stop during your commute if the alternator is faulty.

If you notice any of the following signs, it’s a good chance you may need alternator repair.