Battery Replacement

A battery, which is rechargeable, supplies electric energy to an automobile.  Its main purpose is to start the engine.  Once the engine is running, the alternator supplies power to the vehicle.  However, the engine will still supply power to the electric components of the car, such as the dashboard, lighting, and power adapters/chargers.

An average car battery lasts five to seven years.  Others may last only three to five years, depending on the battery type and your driving style and frequency.

A battery lasts longer if the vehicle is driven daily.  If the vehicle is parked for extended periods of time without starting, the battery will likely need to be replaced sooner.  Leaving a light on or a device plugged into a power adapter/charger in your vehicle overnight are other ways in which a battery can drain quickly.  While a car battery lasts longer when it is kept fully charged, overcharging can damage it.  A problem with your vehicle’s charging system can also cause the battery to fail prematurely.

It is recommended that you get your battery checked annually.  A convenient time to have it checked is at the same time you make an appointment to have your tires rotated and aligned.  Besides annual testing, there are a few telltale signs to indicate you should get your battery checked or replaced, including slow engine cranking, the check engine light, low battery fluid, swelling/bloated battery, battery leak, and an older age (three to five years from date of installation).

It is important to get your battery checked with an accurate computerized battery analyzer.  An inaccurate reading could miss the fact that the battery’s capacity is dropping extremely low, at which point you won’t be able to start your car.

Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers is your best choice for having your battery checked and, if necessary, choosing a new one and having it expertly installed.  All 40 convenient Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers store locations are equipped with the latest computerized technology to properly and accurately check the life of your vehicle’s battery — and all stores are stocked with the best battery options from which you can choose, if a replacement battery is necessary.  Also, the experienced and professional Dobbs ASE-certified service technicians only install the best quality national brands, including AC Delco batteries (original equipment on General Motors vehicles) and Motorcraft (original equipment on Ford vehicles).

At Dobbs, the staff of experienced service technicians is courteous and professional and committed to providing you with same day service, using only the highest quality products, at the most competitive price in town.  Best of all, as a locally owned and family owned company since 1976, at Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers, you have the assurance of knowing that the Dobbs Associates will get the job done right the first time — and stand by their work.