Analog Battery Load Tester

When to Test

Most manufacturers recommend testing your battery at least twice a year. Cooler weather is especially hard on car batteries (one reason we measure cold cranking amps), so it's ideal to test in late fall and spring. On average, a car battery will last between three and five years. However, exposure to extreme elements along with driving habits can shorten the life of your battery.

Time to Replace?

When preparing to test your battery, look out for these signs that it might be time to replace:

• Check engine light (or equivalent): The check engine light will often appear if your battery is weak. Strange system indicator lights might mean there's an issue with your battery: Excessive heat can cause a battery to swell, decreasing its battery life.
• Unpleasant smell: A pungent, rotten smell can indicate a battery leak, which causes corrosion around the battery posts.

Keeping an eye on your battery and its output can help ensure you keep everything in tip-top shape.