Trouble with Your Car Battery Holding a Charge?
Common Causes of a Battery That Won’t Stay Charged
- Parasitic Drain: Lights, electronics, or systems staying on after the engine shuts off can drain your battery. Leaving your proximity key in or near the car can also be a culprit.
- Corroded or Loose Battery Connections: Dirty or loose terminals can prevent proper charging.
- Old or Failing Battery: Most car batteries last 3–5 years. Aging batteries may not hold a charge well.
- Faulty Alternator: A bad alternator won’t recharge your battery while driving.
- Short Trips or Infrequent Use: Quick drives don’t allow full recharging. Long periods of inactivity can also cause drain.
- Extreme Temperatures: Heat evaporates fluid; cold reduces power — both shorten battery life.
How to Troubleshoot the Problem
- Check for Warning Signs: Dim lights, slow starts, or dash alerts may point to charging issues.
- Inspect Battery Terminals: Clean corrosion and tighten connections.
- Test the Battery and Alternator: Most auto parts stores offer free testing.
- Drive Longer or Use a Charger: Long drives help recharge. Otherwise, use a smart charger.
- Consider Replacement: If near the end of its lifespan, a new battery may be the best fix.
When to Replace the Battery
- Struggles to start regularly
- Needs frequent jump starts
- Is more than 3–5 years old
…it might be time for a replacement.
Clarios creates the most advanced battery technologies for virtually every type of vehicle. We are a global leader in energy storage solutions, powering one in three of the world’s vehicles. We partner with our customers to develop smarter solutions that make people’s lives better.