Saturday, November 30, 2024

What is the average lifespan of a car battery?

In most car models, a car battery is expected to last for 3 and 5 years, on average, with some aids. It is clear that climate, driving behavior, and car type significantly affect the duration of a car battery. Car batteries in warm climate zones are generally discharged more briskly because the batteries fluids evaporate more often. On the other hand, high temperatures can decrease the stability of the battery and the internal chemical reactions that occur, making it last longer in cold temperatures. 

Knowing what is the average lifespan of a car battery can assist drivers in getting ready for replacements. Taking several short voyages undermines the possibility of allowing the battery to charge fully, which shortens its life. While conversely frequent long drives, a person can preserve the battery capacity, thus increasing its usage. 

Here are a few signs that it might be time for a car battery replacement: 

  • Slow engine crank: I only know that if your engine is struggling to turn on as quickly as before, your battery may be on its way out. 
  • Headlights: If the car headlights are of a lower intensity than they are supposed to be, then the battery is beginning to fail. 
  • Battery warning light: If this particular light comes up on the dashboard, then this can only mean a single thing.

In this way, you avoid getting stuck, for example, in summer when high temperatures can trigger battery failure earlier than it would have anyway. The final thing you would desire is for your car to halt on a very hot day, and you need to call for a jump start or a tow truck. 

To be safe from such mishaps, one should inspect on the battery's health frequently and, when compulsory, have it replaced. If you have any questions about the condition of your battery, you should consult your dealer or an automotive electrician. For this reason, car battery replacement warranties the dependability of your car regardless of the weather conditions prevailing at any given time. 

By being aware of what is the average lifespan of a car battery and taking appropriate measures, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and enjoy a stress-free driving experience.

Wondering about what is the average lifespan of a car battery? Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about a car battery replacement and to request an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

Saturday, November 9, 2024

What does an oil change service include?

what does an oil change service include

An oil change is one of the most vital regular maintenance tasks for keeping your vehicle running smoothly. While it may seem like a simple service, there is more involved than simply draining and filling the oil. An oil change service usually includes the following parts:

  1. Draining the Old Oil: The mechanic will remove the old, dirty engine oil by draining it from the oil pan. This is done by unscrewing the oil drain plug, allowing the old oil to flow out.
  2. Replacing the Oil Filter: The old oil filter, which traps debris and contaminants, has been removed and replaced with a new one. A clean filter ensures that the new oil stays cleaner for longer.
  3. Adding New Oil: The appropriate type and amount of new oil are added based on your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications. This can be a conventional, synthetic blend, or full synthetic oil.
  4. Inspection of Key Parts: Many oil change services include a quick inspection of other parts of your vehicle, such as:
    • Fluid levels (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, windshield washer fluid)
    • Belts and hoses
    • Tire pressure
    • Air filter (sometimes checked and replaced if compulsory)
  5. Lubrication of Chassis Parts (if applicable): On some older vehicles or specific models, suspension components like ball joints, tie rods, and U-joints may require lubrication. This step is often skipped for newer cars, as they have sealed parts.
  6. Resetting the Oil Change Indicator: For cars with an oil life monitor or dashboard indicator, the mechanic will reset the oil change reminder light so that it accurately tracks your next service interval.

Wondering about what does oil change service include? Call our ASE Certified Mechanics at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about oil change coupons and to request an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.