Car batteries last for a limited time – they won’t last for the vehicle’s lifetime. Therefore, once they begin to die, it’s best to replace them to avoid being left stranded. How much will it cost to replace a car battery, and is it something you can do yourself?
These are important points we’re going to answer, plus points on what influences the car battery replacement cost, where it is best to buy a battery (and have it replaced), plus how often should it be changed in a car’s lifetime. Lastly, we’re going to address questions to help with any concerns you might have.
How Much Does A Car Battery Replacement Cost?
A car battery replacement will cost on average, between $50 and $250. There are a few different criteria that determine how much you will pay for your replacement, including the kind of vehicle it is going on, where it is going for the replacement, or if you can do the swapping out yourself.
Now that you know the average cost, let’s look at different criteria that affect the price to understand it better.
Factors Affecting The Battery Replacement Cost
When estimating a new battery, there are many factors to consider. Both the type of vehicle and battery will dictate what price you will spend.
There also will be cost differences if you have the vehicle in a shop, or if you are going to replace it yourself.
Let’s take a more in-depth look at these factors.
#1. Type Of Battery.
The cost of the battery largely depends upon the type you choose. Large batteries have more amp (electrical current), thus allowing the battery to have more power and larger reserve capacity, but this also makes the batteries more expensive.
The brand makes a difference also because some brands use premium materials that increases cost. High-end brands might simply cost you more but the premium materials will last longer than a cheap-no name brand.
Another cost factor is reserve capacity. Reserve capacity is the length of time, when tested under specific conditions, for a battery to reach discharge. Higher reserve capacities are typically associated with a higher cost.
#2. Vehicle Type.
The type of vehicle you drive also directly affects the cost of the size and type of battery you need (because you cannot obtain a universal car battery for all makes and models).
You will need to select the battery that fits the voltage needs of your vehicle and that will properly fit in the box under the hood.
For example a compact vehicle battery is definitively cheaper than a battery for a full-size truck. This is a pattern with most maintenance costs in that larger vehicles are generally more expensive.
#3. DIY vs. Professional.
A mechanic won’t charge much to install a car battery because it’s basically a simple job. So if you do this yourself, you win!
In fact, a simple battery replacement only requires basic tools, and you can do the work on your driveway. I’ll discuss the battery replacement details in a few minutes.
If you do decide to go to a mechanic, you will likely spend anywhere from $50 to $100 to have the battery replaced. As a rule of thumb, most mechanics would never go below $50 to do any service (for the simple job) regardless of how simple it is.
However, many auto parts stores offer free battery installation with your battery purchase and/or battery installation as a discount at certain auto parts stores.
#4. Shop Location.
Also, did you know that labor costs vary based on location? What you might pay in Tennessee isn’t the same as in California.
Additionally, where you live will make a difference as well, which means if you live in a rural community, the mechanic’s price is typically less than in town.
When Should the Car Battery Be Replaced?
A dead battery will require replacement when it stops charging: at that point, you will not be able to start the engine.
When the battery won’t hold charge, there are no substitutes. However, you can spot signs that your battery should be replaced before you get to the point of replacement.
Here are signs to watch out for.
- Difficulty starting your vehicle: If it is taking longer than normal to get the car started, the battery could be dying.
- Dashboard warning lights: The battery light may illuminate if the battery is unable to hold a charge and eventually dies.
- Dimming lights: As the battery weakens, you may notice the lights in your car or electronics are not functioning properly.
- Low fluid levels: If you have an unsealed battery, you may be able to check the fluid inside. If fluid is noticeably lower, your battery could be going bad.
- Swollen casing: Heat can cause the casing of a battery to swell; therefore, it is not uncommon for the casing to swell, which reduces the overall life of the battery.
- Foul smell: If you smell rotten eggs, something may be wrong with the car battery.
Corrosion on the battery could be causing the connection interference. Corrosion can also cause many of the same symptoms of a vehicle battery dying. Clean the battery off and see if the symptoms eliminate.
Another option is to have the battery tested if it seems to be dying. When the car gets harder to start, or the electronics seem to be less bright, you can replace the battery before it dies. You should always be checking the car battery, but especially before the seasonal weather changes to cold.
Most car batteries are going to have a life of no more than five years, even if they are used under optimal conditions. If it has been a while since the battery has been replaced, you may want to have it tested.
Where To Buy A New Car Battery?
There are several places to buy a new car battery. Let’s assess the advantages and disadvantages of each.
#1. Amazon.
It has almost every battery brand you could want. If you have Amazon Prime, you may not even have to pay for shipping. And it typically only takes 1-2 days to receive your parts from Amazon.
You have to make sure that the battery fits your vehicle, or else you might not be able to return it. And you won’t have any installation options. But if you are replacing it yourself, that shouldn’t be a big deal.
#2. Auto parts store.
If you go to your local Advance Auto, AutoZone, or O’Reilly Auto Parts, you can have a new battery the same day. You can even order ahead online and pick it up in the store.
If you don’t want to install the new battery yourself, the store will offer to do it for you, free of charge. That might save you the trip of disposing of the old battery.
However, the selection is limited at most auto parts stores, and the prices tend to be high.
#3. Walmart Auto Center.
Walmart sells the EverStart and Optima style batteries, so there are not a lot of battery options. The good thing is that they are low prices, which helps with a budget.
Walmart is located in almost every neighborhood, so it shouldn’t be too far to drive for a battery.
They also have technicians who will install for you if you pay. Otherwise, you can simply walk in with your car, install for yourself, and bring back the old battery for refund.
#4. Costco.
Costco sells Interstate batteries, but you can’t simply go buy them unless you are a member of the warehouse club. These batteries get good reviews and are normally priced well.
The auto center at Costco isn’t going to test a battery for you or install the new one. For their warehouses, it can sometime be difficult and lengthy to find that battery unless you need a normally sized battery.
#5. AAA Roadside Assistance.
AAA mobile battery service allows you to get a Duracell battery, even on the road. While you do not have to be a AAA member to have the service, it is slightly more expensive without a membership.
The nice thing is, you do not have to do anything. They will come to you, test the old battery and replace it if needed. Regardless of the service, the battery replacement may not be offered for all makes and models so there are ways to be disappointed by this experience.
How To Replace A Car Battery Yourself?
We highly suggest changing the car battery yourself. Changing the battery is fairly easy, and a great opportunity to save a couple bucks. Here are the steps.
- Park your vehicle on ground that is level. If you have a radio in the car, make sure to write down or have that radio code handy.
- Disconnect the car battery while wearing gloves. Starting with negative terminal (black or – sign), undo the bolt, then move over to your positive terminal (red or + sign). If you can’t undo the bolt with your fingers you may need a socket or a wrench to loosen it up.
- Remove the battery. It is generally held in place by a clamp. Be careful lifting the battery out of the compartment as it can be quite heavy.
- Clean the terminals. Before putting in a new car battery, mix baking soda and water, and make sure all contacts are free from corrosion.
- Put in a new battery. Place down some corrosion preventing jelly on the contacts and on each end of the connectors. Place down the new battery into the compartment and secure it with the clamp.
- Put the connectors back in, and connect your positive cable first.
- Make sure you’re secure and tight on all your connections.
Do not throw the old battery in the trash, you instead have to take that battery to a recycling center or retailer that takes car batteries.
FAQs.
When should I replace my car battery?
Your battery will likely need to be replaced every three to five years. If you have trouble getting the engine to turn over or notice dimming lights, it is likely time for a new battery. Many auto parts stores will check the battery life for free.
Is it expensive to buy a $200 car battery?
That could be expensive if you have a small compact car and don’t need a high-powered battery. However, that would be a low price for a heavy-duty truck that requires a lot more voltage. Look online for estimates for your type of vehicle to see what is considered normal.
Will AutoZone install a battery?
Yes, but your battery must be the one bought at AutoZone. AutoZone isn’t going to install a battery you brought from home. The good part about having it installed right there at the store is you don’t need to run anywhere to get rid of your old battery.
Does AutoZone charge a fee to charge the battery?
No, it is free for customers. You can also get the battery installed free when you buy it their. You can also get rid of your battery while you are there with no extra travel time.
However, you will likely pay more for the battery at AutoZone and they don’t have great selections.
How long does it take to replace a car battery?
Plan on taking an hour to replace car batteries—especially if you’ve never done it before. However, most of the time you can expect to be done in thirty minutes or less. It’s just unplugging the old one and plugging in the new one.
Can I get money for a bad car battery?
If you bought your car battery at the auto parts store you paid a core charge that you will get back when you bring the other battery back. If not, there is a possibility you can get a small amount of money at a junkyard or recycling place.
Car battery replacement cost may be cheap to expensive based on your type of vehicle. You may have to pay a little more to get a nice brand, you’ll be able to charge it a nice amount of time.
Investigate the options for your vehicle online and become familiar with the different car battery options before replacing it. If in doubt it is probably best to consult with a professional.