Car Battery Replacement
A car battery is undoubtedly the most important part of a vehicle and is often referred to as its ‘heart’. It is integral in starting the car and making sure it continues to run smoothly. The car battery needs to supply sufficient energy to start the engine while also powering accessories and electronics such as the climate control (heater air conditioner), audio system, USB auxiliary power outlets, GPS navigation, reversing camera and many more.
A car battery may require replacing for multiple reasons;
- The battery is at the end of its life
- Lack of use
- Repeated short distance trips
- Corrosion
- Having the wrong type of battery for the vehicle
A car battery relies on the vehicle being driven to maintain charge, so long periods of inactivity or only driving short distances may cause it to discharge and struggle to recover. Extreme use such as off-road driving with high vibration can also lead to deterioration of battery plates. Look out for the tell-tale signs and take your vehicle to your nearest RJ Batteries branch for a free battery test or car battery replacement before your battery fails.
How to choose the best car battery replacement
Car batteries generally last for an average of 3 to 5 years depending on the battery quality, type of vehicle, attention to maintenance and various other factors. Here’s how to identify if a battery replacement is needed for your car:
- The battery warning light in the dashboard turns on
- The vehicle fails to start
- The vehicle takes too long to start
- The vehicle produces a ticking noise
A failing battery can also cause problems with electrical devices in the vehicle. If your car is exhibiting any of these classic warning signs, chances are that it is time for a battery replacement. This can be confirmed by our team at RJ Batteries by coming in for your free battery test.
When it comes to car battery replacement, choose one that is suitable for the vehicle, meets your power requirements, maintenance needs, life expectancy, warranty coverage and lifestyle choices. It is also important to understand that not one size fits all. Modern vehicles with Stop Start technology require Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) or Enhanced Flooded Batteries (EFB) which are purpose built to withstand the sustained power delivery and repeated starting loads of this type of vehicle.
To find the best car battery replacement for your vehicle, our Battery Finder is a useful resource. Simply enter the make, model and year of your vehicle into the Battery Finder to find the most suitable car battery replacement, or use our Registration Look Up feature. Alternatively, visit your nearest RJ Batteries branch in Australia to get expert advice and free battery replacement after purchase.
How to replace a car battery
When replacing your old car battery, please ensure extreme caution is taken. We recommend wearing safety glasses when engaging in this procedure. Please turn off the engine, lights and all accessories prior to disconnecting and removing the old battery from your vehicle. The replacement battery needs to meet or exceed the minimum capacity and CCA rating required for your vehicle.
For a step-by-step explanation on changing a car battery by yourself, you can refer to the Battery Replacement Guide however we strongly recommend seeking assistance from our friendly team of battery experts at all RJ Batteries branches across Australia.
Does AutoZone Install Batteries? Installation Policy Explained
AutoZone offers free battery installation for most batteries purchased at AutoZone. However, it may be unable to install your battery if the battery’s location in your vehicle is difficult to access.
Interstate Batteries That are Available at Costco
Costco sells two main types of Interstate batteries in their stores, namely;
- The Standard Flooded Battery – It’s a type of lead-acid battery which has been around for a long time and continues to be the most popular and affordable model. This battery is common in sedans and other small cars
- The Absorbed Glass Mat Battery – It’s common in various personal devices, including cell phones and laptop computers, and heavy machinery like trucks. It has a fiberglass mat that acts as a separator between the lead plates. Within this battery, the electrolyte is held in place to prevent vibrations from moving it around and causing short circuits
Are Car Batteries Cheaper at Costco?
Car batteries are significantly cheaper at Costco than at other stores, including Walmart. The Interstate batteries brand sold by Costco scored high in expert testing and retail at an average price of 60-100. This is 15-40 cheaper compared to other retail stores.
Costco also charges a 15 core charge. However, you can waive this charge by returning an old battery to Costco for recycling.
Costco’s Car Battery and Size Chart
Costco offers a free battery replacement warranty on their Interstate batteries. The warranty period differs and depends on the battery purchased.
In case of battery failure or defects within the warranty period, you can get a free replacement or partial refund. To qualify for the warranty, you need to provide documentation related to the original purchase and some other information.
The Costco Auto Program
The Costco Auto Program (CAP) is a car-buying service that offers both new and used vehicles at pre-negotiated wholesale to Costco members. You can shop at your local dealer or online and choose from over 3,000 participating dealerships nationwide using the program. A few advantages of using the CAP include:
- No hidden fees—the advertised price is what you pay
- Savings of up to 450,000 in vehicle purchases
- Discounts and benefits on services – up to 15% discount on parts, accessories, and services in participating service centers
- Extended warranties
- Exclusive 24/7 member assistance
Step 5: Install and secure the new battery
Double-check to make sure that the position of the new battery matches the red and black terminals. Lower the new battery into the car and onto the mounting shelf. Re-attach the clamp or hold-down bar and tighten the bolt to secure it.
Before reconnecting the terminals, consider using protective felt washers or some battery anti-corrosive protection gel on both terminals.
Always connect the positive cable to a new battery first. Be sure the connector is pushed all the way down on the terminal. Tighten the bolt. Repeat the same steps for the negative connector to the negative terminal.
Step 6: Close the hood and start the car
New car batteries normally come charged and are ready to go right away.
If you change a car battery yourself, remember that they cannot be thrown away in ordinary trash. Jano says the old battery is typically returned to the seller of the new battery, as sometimes a refundable core fee is charged.
In most states, any retailer who sells new batteries is required to accept used ones for recycling. Check with your local auto parts store. Place the old battery in several trash bags and be sure to always keep it upright. Do not keep it, batteries emit toxic gasses and can leak. Properly dispose of it as soon as possible.
Insider’s takeaway
Changing your car battery yourself is an easy way to save money on car maintenance. Be sure to properly test the battery to make sure it needs replacing. Remove the negative connector first, then the positive connector from the old battery and remove it. Install the new battery then connect the positive connector first and finally the negative connector last. Dispose of the old battery properly at an auto parts store or recycling center.
However, a loose battery or loose electrical connections can be very dangerous. If you’re not comfortable doing any part of this process, most auto parts stores will install batteries you buy there for free. AAA also sells batteries and will install them and take away the old one at no charge.
Palm Springs-based automotive writer and gearhead Freddy Sherman can usually be found in his garage, tinkering with his 1968 Pontiac Firebird. When he’s not cruising in the Firebird, he can be found driving one of the more than 50 new cars (and 10 new motorcycles) he drives each year to review. Freddy’s content has been featured on Yahoo!, Daily Mail Online, CNN and in Business Traveler magazine. You can see more on his Drive With Fred YouTube channel and his @drivewithfred Instagram feed.
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