You may not think about the battery every time you start your car, but it is an extremely important component of your vehicle. It not only helps start the car, but it also runs all the electrical components inside the vehicle. The average lifespan of a battery is three to five years. However, it ultimately depends on a variety of factors, such as exposure to extreme temperatures, getting fully charged on a regular basis, and which power accessories it provides juice to.
There are numerous signs that indicate a new battery is needed. It is important to replace your current one before it completely runs out of charge, as you do not want to get stranded somewhere with a non-running vehicle. When looking for a replacement 2016 Chevy Malibu battery, make sure you find one that fits the manufacturer’s specifications and provides enough power for your car’s needs.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Car’s Battery
The ultimate sign that it is time to replace your Chevy Malibu battery is that it will not start. This usually is accompanied by a clicking sound when you turn the ignition. To catch a dying battery before it completely stops working, train your eyes, ears, and nose to watch out for these signs:
- The engine eventually starts, but you hear s slow cranking before it actually turns on. Your battery should be replaced as soon as possible.
- You smell rotten eggs. This foul smell indicates leaking gas, and you should replace the battery right away.
- The electrical components are not working like they should. This may show up as dim headlights or a softer playing radio.
- The battery looks funny. A misshapen or swollen battery indicates high acidity, which can be caused by extreme hot or cold temperatures.
- You notice excess and frequent corrosion around the terminals. Buildup naturally occurs over time, and cleaning it keeps the battery running normally. However, if it is happening a lot, or you are unable to clean it off, you should replace it.
- It has been four to five years since you last replaced it. Once it has been three years, you should have the charge checked on a regular basis so you know when it is time to get a new one.
How to Recycle Your Old Car Battery
After replacing the auto battery, you cannot just throw the old one in the trash. These batteries contain acid and lead, which are toxic to you and the environment. If the battery is sealed properly, you can handle it safely, but you must get rid of it in the right way.
If you bring your car into an auto shop for battery replacement, they will recycle your old one properly. If you replace it at home, store the old battery upright in a sturdy plastic bag. Be careful when you transport it so it does not tip or jostle around. Some options for recycling places:
- Metal recycling facility
- Toxic item and chemical drop off establishment
- Auto body shop or auto parts store
Some auto parts establishments will also offer an incentive if you drop off your old battery. This may include a gift card, percentage off accessories, or other reward.
