A1, A1 German Prestige Specialists

A1 German Prestige Specialists

Independent BMW, Mercedes, Audi, VW, Porsche Service & Parts in Stevenage

Frequently Asked Questions

Car Batteries FAQ

Car batteries power a vehicle’s engine and electrical systems, including lights and wipers. Over time, they can lose efficiency due to age or extreme temperatures. Regular checks can ensure reliability, and signs like difficulty starting or dim headlights may indicate the need for a replacement.

What voltage should a car battery be?

A healthy car battery should read no lower than 12.6V when the car is not running (the battery is resting) and is measured with a multimeter. This figure can rise between 13.8V and 14.4V when the car runs. If the reading on a resting battery shows as lower than 12.6V, it would suggest that it is partly depleted, and if the reading shows below 12V, it is considered to be completely discharged. If your battery is depleted or discharged, then it should be charged as soon as possible and re-tested – if the problems persist, then it may be time to replace the battery. If you think your battery is depleted, or if you’re just not sure and would like peace of mind, bring your car to A1 for a quick test.

More of our Car Batteries FAQs

What charges a car battery?

Every car has an alternator or generator, which is used to charge the car battery while the engine is running. Most modern cars will use an alternator, whereas older ones may be fitted with a generator – the only real difference is that an alternator is able to charge a car battery at a lower RPM than a generator. The higher the engine RPM is, the faster the battery will charge, so travelling on the motorway will charge your battery faster than driving in stop-start city traffic.

How long do electric car batteries last?

As with all batteries, electric car batteries will eventually deteriorate and need replacing after prolonged use. While many factors can increase the rate at which batteries lose power (such as exposure to hot conditions and excessive use of fast charging), electric vehicle manufacturers have been working hard to produce batteries that will stand the test of time. Most EVs will now come with a battery lasting upwards of 100,000 miles. Manufacturers will be able to offer more accurate details for specific models.

How long do car batteries last?

Car battery life can vary depending on a number of factors, but in ideal conditions you can expect a battery to last 4-5 years. In order to ensure that you get the best out of your battery life it is important to make sure the vehicle is regularly driven for 20-30 minute trips to give the battery enough time to recharge, as many short trips can drain the battery over time. Extreme weather conditions, both hot and cold, can also have an adverse effect on battery life. If you’re unsure of the condition of your car or van battery then why not pop down A1 for a battery test.

How long can a car battery sit unused?

There are a number of different factors that can affect how long a battery can remain unused, including the condition of the battery and the temperature it is being left at. Generally speaking, a car battery should be ok for 1-2 months before it is worn out and will need recharging before it can start the car again. This time will be shorter if the battery is particularly old, or if the car is going to be left in cold conditions.