Feb 27, 2018
How to Test a Car's Battery

 

The average car battery lasts about four years, depending on different factors. Want to see how yours is holding up? It’s a good idea to test your car battery before any big road trip – or, if you’ve had your vehicle awhile and want to know what’s up. This is especially critical if your car isn’t starting up right away.

Rule of thumb? According to the mechanics at Peruzzi Toyota, a twice-a-year review is optimal. So here’s how to give it a check-up.

  • First off, test your battery on a warm day (70F or higher). You’ll be doing a load test with a voltmeter. A digital version will give the most accurate reading.
  • To start, your vehicle’s engine should be off. And just to be extra-safe, wear goggles and rubber gloves to avoid any potential issues with battery acid.
  • Now, connect the Red/Positive test lead of the voltmeter to the battery’s positive terminal; connect the Black/Negative test lead to the negative terminal.
  • If the voltage reads “12.4+” or above, you’re good. (“100” or “75”% will also do).
  • To complete the process, remove the negative terminal first.

Bottom line:  a good battery is under four years old. It will easily hold a charge of 12.4 volts or more, and easily returns to a working state.

But if things are a little dodgy, it’s a smart move to get a new a battery. The experts at Peruzzi Toyota can help you out with a quick, easy install. Visit our Toyota service center to learn more about how we can help you with battery testing or battery replacement. If you’re looking for a new vehicle, look no further than Peruzzi Toyota’s huge selection of nearly 300 new Toyota vehicles available for purchase or lease near Allentown, PA and Bethlehem, PA. If you’re looking for something less expensive or from a different brand, Peruzzi Toyota also has an inventory of nearly 500 pre-owned vehicles available for purchase in Hatfield, PA. Visit us today at 2601 Bethlehem Pike in Hatfield, PA or give us a call at 877-545-2111 to learn more or schedule an appointment.