Car Battery Cost: What You Need to Know Before You Buy

Notice your engine cranking slower than usual and an illuminated battery light on the dash?
If yes, it’s likely time for a battery replacement.

But how much will a new car battery cost?

Keep reading to discover the cost of a new battery and some telltale signs indicating you need a replacement.

How Much Does a Car Battery Cost?

Here’s what you can expect to pay for a new battery:

A. Range

The car battery replacement cost ranges between $100 and $1100, depending on your vehicle’s make and model. This includes:

Battery price: $50 to $1000
Labor charges: $50 to $100

The type of replacement battery you choose has the most significant impact on the total bill. Here’s what different types cost:

Standard-flooded battery: $50 to $150
AGM battery: $150 to $250
Lithium-ion battery: $300 to over $1,000 (typically used in an electric car)

B. Factors Affecting Cost

Other factors affecting the battery price include:

Brand: Batteries of reputable brands (like AC Delco and Bosch) cost more due to their popularity and superior performance.

Car battery size and power: Larger batteries with higher cold cranking amps (CCA) have better starting power and last longer, but they also cost more.

The reserve capacity: Batteries that supply power to the car’s electrical systems for longer periods without frequent recharging (reserve capacity) are usually expensive.

Warranty: A replacement battery with an extended warranty will generally have higher upfront costs.

Additional repairs: Any extra repair (e.g., the alternator, battery terminals, or cables) could typically increase the cost.

Note: Many dealers allow you to exchange your dead battery for a core charge to encourage battery recycling. So, when buying a new battery, you may receive a discount or a cash return.

Is It Worth Replacing the Car Battery?

Yes, you need to replace a faulty or old battery ASAP.

Even if you manage to temporarily recharge the battery, it’ll likely lose power again. Eventually, you’ll be unable to start your car — leaving you stranded.

Signs You Need a Car Battery Replacement

Some common issues associated with a faulty battery include:

Slow engine crank: When engaging the ignition, you’ll notice the engine taking longer to start.

Activated battery light: The battery light can indicate several problems, including corrosion, loose clamps, and the need for a battery replacement.

Low battery fluid: An overcharged battery, lack of maintenance, and fluid evaporation due to extreme heat can lead to low battery water levels.

Swollen battery case: Excessive heat causes the battery case to expand, reducing battery life and making it unusable. Replace a swollen battery immediately.

Unpleasant smell: A leaking car battery can make the car smell like rotting eggs by producing hydrogen sulfide.

How Long Do Car Batteries Last?

Different car batteries have varying lifespans:

Flooded: 3 to 5 years
Sealed Lead-Acid (like AGMs): 3 to 7 years
Lithium: 8 to 20 years

However, several factors can shorten your car’s battery life, including:

Temperature: Extreme temperatures accelerate internal battery degradation and decrease current delivery.

Driving habits: Frequent short trips prevent the battery from fully recharging, reducing its lifespan.

Electrical load: Electrical components (like the AC and stereo systems) put additional strain on the battery.

Malfunctioning charging system: Constantly under or overcharging the battery can shorten its lifespan.

How to Make Car Batteries Last Longer

Follow these steps to increase your battery’s longevity:

Park under cover: This protects the battery from extreme temperatures.

Avoid frequent, short trips: Longer trips will give your battery enough time to charge.

Don’t leave your car unused for long periods: Without regular charging from the vehicle’s alternator, the battery may eventually be unable to hold any power.

Avoid using electrical components with the car off: Providing power for headlights, interior lights, and other components strains the battery.

Clean your battery regularly: Corrosion on the battery terminals can disrupt current flow.

Regularly inspect your battery: Tighten the bolts on the hold-down bar to prevent excessive vibration from damaging the battery. Also, perform a monthly battery check to ensure your battery’s voltage is above 12.7 volts for optimal performance.

Get Hassle-Free Battery Replacement with AutoNation Mobile Service

Battery issues make starting your vehicle more difficult and, if not replaced, will eventually leave you stranded.

Stuck with a dead battery?
AutoNation Mobile Service’s mobile mechanics can come to you to replace your old battery from your driveway. We also provide a 12-month|12,000-mile warranty on all repairs.

Contact us today for your battery service and repair needs.