Battery Not Holding a Charge

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.
Battery trouble graphic

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.

Need a New Battery?

Use our tool to find the right fit for your vehicle.

Battery Finder Tool

About Clarios

Every journey matters.
And so does the battery
that powers each of them.

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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.