You will be able to check your car battery’s life as a quick, DIY task with the help of a multimeter. Follow our step-by-step guide below.
Signs You Need To Test And Replace A Car Battery
There are a few obvious indicators that your car battery is in need of a replacement, including the following:
- Electrical issues, such as dim or flickering taillights, headlights, and dashboard lights.
- If the check engine light remains illuminated, it means the ECU has read a voltage drop, with a drained or dead battery the main culprit behind this issue.
- Issues starting the car when turning the key or pressing the ignition button.
How To Test Car Battery With Multimeter
This test is done to measure voltage at rest, during starting, and while the engine is running. Testing the car battery with a multimeter ultimately helps reveal battery or charging system problems.
Before starting this task, make sure to take the appropriate safety precautions. These include wearing gloves and eye protection during the process. Always try to avoid sparks and keep all metal tools away from the battery terminals.
Now follow these DIY steps below.
Step 1.
- Make sure the vehicle is turned off.
- Let your battery rest for at least one hour before testing.
- This is necessary to avoid false readings.
Step 2.
- Set the multimeter to DC voltage.
- Select the 20V range if incremental settings are featured.
Step 3.
- Connect the red probe of the battery’s positive terminal and the black probe to the negative terminal, at this time.
Step 4.
- Now read the resting voltage.
- 12.6V or higher means the battery is quite healthy overall.
- Meanwhile, 12.4-12.6V is moderately charged.
- Any reading below 12V indicates the battery is either weak or discharged.
Step 5.
- Make sure to keep the probes connected.
- Have a helper crank the engine.
- The voltage should never drop below 9.6V during starting.
Step 6.
- Start your engine and identify the charging voltage.
- The number should be between 13.7V-14.7V when idle.
Step 7.
- Turn on the electrical accessories like the AC and headlights.
- Make sure the voltage remains within the outlined healthy charging range.
Step 8.
- If your readings are outside of this range, the battery or alternator may require professional testing and/or replacement.
Car Battery FAQs
How Long Does It Take To Replace A Car Battery?
If you choose to change the battery yourself, you should set aside at least an hour of time. Roadside assistance can change the battery quicker, but most of the time this task takes 30-60 minutes to complete.
How Often To Replace A Car Battery
The majority of car experts recommend changing your car battery every 4-5 years. Of course, there are multiple factors that impact the overall life of the car battery.
How Much Does A Battery Replacement Cost At A Car Dealership?
Your specific automaker could cover your battery replacement depending on your type of car and its warranty. For example, Tesla will pay to replace your car battery two years after your purchase date.
You can expect to pay an average of $250 if you choose to replace your car battery at a dealership.
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